6 Most Scenic Drives in Kentucky
Kentucky is a state made for road trips. From the rugged rock formations of the Red River Gorge to the rolling horse farms of the Bluegrass, the landscape shifts dramatically from region to region. Scenic byways and backroads lead through historic towns and cities such as Midway, Bardstown, and Hodgenville, deep forests like the Daniel Boone National Forest, serene lakes, including Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley, and landmarks such as Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park and the Perryville Battlefield State Historic Site that tell the story of the past. These journeys offer breathtaking sights and the flexibility to enjoy them as a short afternoon or a full day of exploration.
Red River Gorge Scenic Byway: Stanton To Zachariah
The Red River Gorge Scenic Byway, which stretches roughly 46 miles, is one of the most scenic drives in Kentucky. The route begins in Stanton along KY‑11 through the Daniel Boone National Forest. From there, the road leads to KY-77 and through the Nada Tunnel, a 900-foot-long, single-lane passage carved through solid rock in the early 1900s to support logging operations. Emerging from the tunnel, nearby trails, including the Auxier Ridge Trailhead, offer a stopping point for those who prefer to go for a hike. The byway then intersects with KY-715, which offers access to the Red River Gorge Geological Area and continues to the Gladie Visitor Center, which features interactive exhibits, artifacts, and a convenient gift shop inside.
Leaving there, the byway takes you to the Sky Bridge Recreation Area, home to the Sky Bridge Arch, a 75-foot-long sandstone bridge that offers sweeping views and can be accessed from the Sky Bridge Trail. Back on the road, the route connects back to KY-11 to landmarks like Natural Bridge State Resort Park, which features the Natural Bridge, Henson's Arch, and Mill Creek Lake. After stopping there, head south to Zachariah. Although the byway takes about an hour, it can easily turn into a half-day trip between the various stops and scenic pull-offs.
Old Frankfort Pike Historic and Scenic Byway: Lexington To Frankfort
Another drive worth exploring is the Old Frankfort Pike Historic and Scenic Byway, which stretches just over 15 miles through the heart of Kentucky’s Bluegrass region but doubles to nearly 30 miles with additional stops and detours. Start off in Lexington on Old Frankfort Pike (KY-1681) near McConnell Springs Park, the site where Lexington was named in 1775. A few miles from there, take US-60 to reach Keeneland, a National Historic Landmark and one of the country’s most celebrated thoroughbred racing venues. Next, follow the byway to US-62, where horse farms, including Lane’s End Farm and Stonewall Farm, sit just off the road near Midway. Just outside of town, Weisenberger Mill sits along South Elkhorn Creek, offering a look at a working grist mill that has operated for generations.
Back on Old Frankfort Pike (KY-1681), drive past Airdrie Stud until the route curves toward Duckers Station Road, which then leads to US-421 into Frankfort. There, sights include the gravesite of Kentucky pioneer Daniel Boone, located on Main Street near the Kentucky River. Lexington to Frankfort is about an hour without stops, but the scenery and points of interest allow you to experience the route at a slower pace.
Lincoln Heritage Scenic Highway: Hodegenville To Perryville
For a scenic route that transports you back in time, consider the Lincoln Heritage Scenic Highway. Begin in Hodgenville, where the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park offers a perfect place to explore before setting out on your drive. Dedicated to the 16th president of the United States, the park has notable features, including the First Lincoln Memorial building, which houses the symbolic birth cabin inside, as well as a visitor center with exhibits detailing Lincoln’s life. Afterward, hop back into the car and follow US-31 past forested areas and creeks, such as Knob Creek, the site of Abraham Lincoln’s Boyhood Home.
Continue along US-31 through New Haven, home to the Kentucky Railway Museum, and pass Beech Fork on your way to Bardstown. In Bardstown, stop at Old Bardstown Colonial Village and Park, where a collection of colonial-era log cabins and a Civil War museum sit. From there, head toward US-150 to the Perryville Battlefield State Historic Site, which tells the story of the battle through historical exhibits and displays. The Lincoln Heritage Scenic Highway from Hodgenville to Perryville is just over an hour and approximately 50 miles, but plan to spend an entire day soaking in the historical landmarks and other sights.
Woodlands Trace National Scenic Byway: Grand Rivers To Dover
The Woodlands Trace National Scenic Byway is a 34-mile scenic drive that cuts through the heart of the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, a narrow strip of forested land bordered by Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley. Starting in Grand Rivers, the route follows KY‑453. A short distance from there leads toward the North Welcome Station, a convenience stop to pick up maps, brochures, and snacks for the road. Continue past the Woodlands Nature Station and wildlife viewing areas, where herds of elk and bison can often be seen.
About halfway, notable sights include the Golden Pond Planetarium & Observatory, which has educational programming, as well as laser light shows from time to time. After exploring, get back on the road and head south, where the Woodlands Trace National Scenic Byway continues into Tennessee. In Dover, the Homeplace 1850s Working Farm and Living History Museum operates much as it would have during the Civil War era with authentic artifacts and period structures. Grand Rivers to Dover is about 45 minutes, but with stops along the way, it becomes a half-day journey through the area's most scenic landscapes.
Big Bone Lick Scenic Byway: Northern Boone County
The Big Bone Lick Scenic Byway offers a shorter but rewarding scenic drive. Located in northern Kentucky’s Boone County, the route begins near Beaverlick on KY-338, where the Big Bone Lick State Historic Site sits not too far from the Ohio River. Inside its visitor center are prehistoric fossils from animals that once roamed the area, life-size replicas, and other exhibits that offer insight into the region's geology. The presence of a bison herd, natural springs, birdwatching spots, and various trails makes the trip worthwhile.
From there, drive toward US-42 past Bridlewood Farm and Beaver Lick Baptist Church. The byway then leads to US-42, which turns into KY-237 near South Fork Park, an ideal stop with picnic areas, a playground, and a disc golf course, with meadows and trails nearby. From there, the route takes you by Camp Ernst Lake Park and Gunpowder Creek Nature Park in Burlington, ending at KY-18. From Beaverlick to Burlington is just over 30 minutes, approximately 15 miles, but allow more time for exploring the Boone County area.
Duncan Hines Scenic Road: Bowling Green Loop
The Duncan Hines Scenic Road is an 80-mile driving loop through the pastoral landscapes of southwestern Kentucky, beginning and ending in Bowling Green. The two-hour trip begins on US-31W at the Duncan Hines historical marker at 3098 Louisville Road. Leaving downtown, the road continues to KY-101 near Buttram Farms. Along this stretch are Tayvin Gardens, a stunning space filled with white flowers and a 25-foot waterfall, and The Hidden Homestead, featuring a rustic barn, a lake, and a gazebo.
From there, the route leads to KY-259, a quiet stretch that winds through Brownsville and past the Green River toward KY-728 to Mammoth Cave National Park. Beyond overlooks such as Sunset Point and Echo River Spring, the park's Green River Ferry is a highlight. The historic cable-guided ferry carries vehicles across the water in just a few minutes while offering open views of the tree-lined riverbanks and towering cliffs above. After the crossing, follow KY-70 for a few miles until the road reconnects with US-31W back to Bowling Green.
Kentucky's Most Beautiful Routes
From a quick 30-minute trip to a full two-hour drive, Kentucky's roads offer some of the most scenic routes in the country. Admire sandstone cliffs and natural arches along the Red River Gorge Scenic Byway, explore rolling horse farms on the Old Frankfort Pike Historic and Scenic Byway, and learn about the life of Abraham Lincoln along the Lincoln Heritage Scenic Highway. Take in the sight of bison grazing in open prairies by passing through the Woodlands Trace National Scenic Byway, uncover prehistoric fossils and enjoy outdoor adventures along the Big Bone Lick Scenic Byway, or experience the natural beauty of Mammoth Cave National Park via the Duncan Hines Scenic Road. With so much to see and do, these Kentucky routes offer something memorable for every traveler.
