The 9 Best Backroads In Kentucky For A Long Scenic Drive
One of Kentucky’s favorite pastimes is an afternoon drive on a scenic back road. The Bluegrass State is full of these gems, some connect small towns, while others surround the perimeter of a natural wonder. No matter what type of scenery you prefer, you’ll find it on one of the very best scenic drives in Kentucky.
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This 14-mile stretch of highway in Powell County earns its spot thanks to the mysterious Nada Tunnel. The historic 900-foot tunnel used to be a railroad passage but is now a one lane road with plenty of scenery surrounding it. And although this route itself is short, there are plenty of connecting back roads to choose from to further your adventure.
Running north-south through seven counties in eastern Kentucky, U.S. 23 is more widely known as Country Music Highway. The 144 miles make a great weekend trip to enjoy beautiful scenery, lively music and friendly people eager to share the character and history of this area of Kentucky.
In Mammoth Cave, Kentucky HWY 70 becomes Mammoth Cave Parkway and makes for a scenic afternoon drive. But to add a little adventure to your drive, try out the tiny Green River Ferry. You can access it from the Parkway and it's free to use.
U.S. 150 actually enters Kentucky from Indiana near Louisville, and has several picturesque sections. A favorite part begins in Bardstown, where you'll find plenty to do and then head southeast toward Springfield.
To experience the true beauty of Kentucky's horse country, try Old Frankfort Pike. This stretch of HWY 1681 runs from Lexington to Frankfort and is filled with horse farms, wood and stone fencing and plenty of options for stops to relax.
This easily accessible route ends on a historic note. Right off of 71/75 in Northern Kentucky, KY 536 has a great stretch that begins right off the exit and takes you toward local favorite, Rabbit Hash. The drive is scenic and the Rabbit Hash General Store is a must see Kentucky treasure.
Red River Gorge is one of the most picturesque areas of Kentucky and the best way to experience it by car is on Sky Bridge Road. Accessible from the Bert T. Combs Parkway, you can stick to driving or stop and tackle one of the many trail heads along the route.
In southeast Kentucky, near Whitesburg, Pine Mountain Road is lovely in every season. Unless you're from this area, you'll likely be surprised at the abounding natural beauty.
This 560 mile route begins in northern Ohio, but stretches from northern Kentucky all the way to its southwest tip. It is one of the more popular scenic drives through the state and for good reason. It passes through many notable cities including Maysville, Lexington, Harrodsburg and Bowling Green and mostly winds through forested, hilly terrain.
How many of the best scenic drives in Kentucky have you traveled? Did we miss your favorite? These are hard to track down and even more difficult to narrow down to the best! Share your thoughts in the comments!
Address: Mammoth Cave St, Cave City, KY 42127, USA
Address: US-150, Bardstown, KY, USA
Address: Old Frankfort Pike, Lexington, KY, USA
Address: KY-536, Kentucky, USA
Address: Sky Bridge Rd, Frenchburg, KY, USA
Address: Pine Mountain Rd, Kentucky 40806, USA
Address: US-68, Bowling Green, KY, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Best Scenic Drives In Kentucky
March 29, 2020
Nikki Rhoades
What are the best roadside attractions in Kentucky?
While The Bluegrass State is not a traditional vacation destination, natives can tell you all about what makes our magnificent state such a worthy travel spot. In addition to thousands of acres of scenic beauty, we have friendly residents, great food, and… yes, you’ll even spot a few roadside attractions in Kentucky. You might spot a tyrannosaurus rex peeking out over the treetops, or you may see a giant pair of underpants. Don’t be alarmed… these just add to the charm of our state.
Are there any other scenic backroads to drive along in Kentucky?
There’s an abundance of scenic backroads in Kentucky, as much of our state is rural. Much of it, you’ll find, is also untamed and absolutely mesmerizing. You’ll find pretty spots like Pisgah Pike beckoning to drivers craving a quality windshield view, or you may decide to take a road trip up to one of Kentucky’s finest destinations. Road trips can take you to waterfalls, along scenic byways, or to a mouthwatering restaurant. All of these are fantastic destinations for local explorers and visitors alike.
Are there other similar things to do in Kentucky when you have a free afternoon?
There are so many things to do in Kentucky that it’s not even funny. You can spend an afternoon basking in the magnificence of our finest natural landmarks, or you might spend some time on foot enjoying a long hike… or a short and sweet one. Whatever you decide to do, you will find that time spent in Kentucky is endlessly rewarding. There’s so much to love about this pretty state, and so many of its finest attractions won’t even cost you a dime. Come visit with an open mind and you’ll surely fall in love!
A Cincinnati native who has lived in Kentucky for over 10 years, Andrea's heart belongs both in the Queen City and the Bluegrass State. After earning an education degree and working in that field for a number of years, Andrea began to pursue her passion for writing over 6 years ago. Since then she has written for a number of print and online publications, as well as published a children's book.
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