Following the Buffalo Trace: Discover Indiana’s Historic Pathways National Scenic Byway
Planning a scenic drive in Indiana filled with history, natural beauty, and small-town charm? Indiana’s Historic Pathways National Scenic Byway offers one of the most meaningful road trips in the Midwest.
Spanning more than 250 miles across southern Indiana, this National Scenic Byway follows two historic routes — US 150 and US 50 — connecting ancient trails, pioneer paths, and 19th-century highways through rolling hills, river valleys, forests, and historic communities.
Ancient Trails and Historic Roads
One of the byway’s most fascinating routes traces the legendary Buffalo Trace — an ancient pathway originally created by migrating bison. Later used by Native Americans, European settlers, traders, and stagecoaches, this corridor (also known as the Vincennes Trace and Clarksville Trace) played a crucial role in the development of Indiana Territory.
The second branch follows US 50, one of America’s iconic east-west highways. Together, these historic roads pass through 16 counties before meeting in Vincennes, Indiana’s oldest city and former territorial capital.
Things to Do Along Indiana’s Historic Pathways
This scenic byway delivers a rich mix of history, culture, and outdoor adventure:
Historic Sites & Museums
– George Rogers Clark National Historical Park
– Grouseland (President William Henry Harrison’s home)
– Howard Steamboat Museum
– Culbertson Mansion State Historic Site
– Vincennes State Historic Sites
– Indiana Military Museum
Outdoor Recreation & Nature
– Explore Indiana Caverns and Marengo Cave
– Hike in state forests and wildlife refuges
– Ski at Paoli Peaks or Perfect North Slopes
– Ride the French Lick Scenic Railway
– Visit Falls of the Ohio State Park for fossil hunting
– Enjoy Wilstem Ranch and covered bridges
Charming Towns & Resorts
Small-town main streets, West Baden Springs Hotel, and French Lick Resort add elegance and character to the journey.
Award-Winning Partnership & Education
In 2026, the National Scenic Byway Association honored Indiana’s Historic Pathways with a Byway Award for Outstanding Partnership. The award recognized the byway’s successful Buffalo Trace history workshops and the interactive Buffalo Trace Story Map — powerful educational tools developed through strong collaboration with educators, historians, preservation groups, volunteers, and the U.S. Forest Service.
Why You Should Visit the Historic Pathways National Scenic Byway
Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or family traveler, this byway offers an unforgettable journey through layers of American history and Southern Indiana’s scenic beauty. It’s the perfect route for a weekend getaway or a longer Indiana road trip.
Official Resources:
– Learn more at: https://nsbfoundation.com/nb/indianas-historic-pathways-national-scenic-byway/
– Visit: https://www.indianashistoricpathways.org/