We often joke in Kentucky that locals will go out of their way to take the back roads, but in a beautiful state like ours, why would you not? Summer is a great time to hop in your car and take the scenic route around the Bluegrass State, checking out hole-in-the-wall stops and the picturesque countryside. If a relaxing drive on Kentucky backroads sounds like an ideal summer day, and you’re anywhere near Lexington, then turn your wheel toward Pisgah Pike, in the heart of horse country. This scenic back road is a great drive any time of year, but it definitely makes for one of the best summer drives in Kentucky.

Kentucky is well known for its horse farms and tree-lined streets, and summer is a wonderful time to get out and go for an afternoon drive right through these beautiful features of our state.
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Woodford County is just west of Lexington and includes the lovely town of Versailles and what many consider the most scenic drive in Kentucky.
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Pisgah Pike runs north/south through the country and is the address of many notable horse farms. You can access it a few different ways, but our favorite is to first drive along Old Frankfort Pike and then turn down this magical roadway that is like no other place on the planet.
That may seem like an exaggeration, but if you've experienced it, you know it's quite true. Pisgah Pike is lined with ancient trees, stone walls, and miles of fencing that surrounds farms and properties.
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In the summer everything is vibrant and green, and the shade provided by the trees makes this an inviting drive, even in the heat of the summer.
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The drive along Pisgah isn't incredibly long, but you can easily do it a few times, perhaps taking turns driving so everyone can experience this beautiful area.

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It's in this region of Kentucky that you'll see why our state is known for horses, and they add even more charm to this already enchanting drive.
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Also along the drive, be sure to check out the Kentucky Castle. We've shared all about this unique destination previously, and it's definitely an eye-catching feature along this scenic road.
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When you drive along Pisgah Pike, don't expect to get an up-close look at these large homes and barns, and you won't see jockeys racing horses through the fields. But, you will see glimpses of this beloved Kentucky pastime and incredible natural beauty.
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Take your time, watch the narrow road while appreciating your surroundings, and definitely count your blessings to be driving along the most scenic road in Kentucky.
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Enjoy a leisurely Pisgah Pike drive from Old Frankfort Pike over to Versailles Road in this video from Jeff Ashcroft:

Pisgah Pike and this area of Kentucky are truly magical and should be experienced during every season, including summer. So, grab some snacks for the road, buckle up, and let’s go! Have you taken these scenic Kentucky backroads drives? Where else do you enjoy driving in Kentucky? Let us know in the comments!

Be sure to check out more of long, scenic drives in Kentucky!

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More to Explore

More Kentucky summer drives

Chris Muras | June 21, 2023

What are some of the best summer drives in Kentucky?

Spending some time in Kentucky during the summer will treat you to beautiful scenery. What better way to do so than with a scenic drive? Here are a few of the best summer drives in Kentucky to put on your bucket list:

  • Cumberland Cultural Heritage Highway: A scenic drive along the 200-mile Cumberland Cultural Heritage Highway will take you to Cumberland Falls - perhaps Kentucky's most famous waterfall. But that isn't the only attraction along the way. Enjoy charming small towns, lakes, and winding rivers while you take a nice drive.
  • Red River Gorge Scenic Byway: Start your scenic road trip by passing through the 900-foot Nada Tunnel. Known as the "Gateway to Red River Gorge," this beautiful drive is always an awe-inspiring experience.
  • Ohio River Scenic Drive: This drive along Kentucky's northern border and the scenic Ohio River will take you to some interesting destinations. See a herd of bison near the Big Bone Lick State Historic Site, drive across the iconic Roebling Bridge (once the longest suspension bridge in the world), and stop for a stroll in the beautiful Waterfront Botanical Gardens in Louisville.
  • Sky Bridge Road: This short and sweet route allows you to stop and enjoy some of Kentucky's most scenic areas and hiking trails. Keep an eye out for the many pull-off areas to see scenic overlooks and short trails through the Danial Boone National Forest.
  • Wilderness Road Heritage Highway: This 100-mile road trip takes you from the Tennessee-Kentucky border near Middlesboro to the charming town of Berea. Some of the scenic sights you'll enjoy along the way include the Cumberland Gap, Pine Mountain State Resort Park and the Chained Rock Formation, and the Levi Jackson Wilderness State Park. You'll even be able to stop at the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame in Mt Vernon, KY.

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Pisgah Pike, Kentucky 40383, USA