Take a scenic ride through the wooded hills and lakeside towns of western Kentucky as we follow Interstate 24 from Eddyville to Cadiz. This 24-mile segment carries us through a region rich with natural beauty, Civil War history, and small-town charm—all nestled near two of the state’s major recreational gems: Lake Barkley and Land Between the Lakes.
Our journey begins at the junction of Interstate 24 and Interstate 69, just east of Eddyville. This area has seen significant highway development over the years, with I-69 gradually replacing the former Western Kentucky Parkway and becoming a vital north-south connector through western Kentucky. Merging onto I-24 eastbound, we’re immediately greeted by a corridor of green—dense groves of hardwood trees line both sides of the road, giving way to occasional glimpses of open farmland and low-lying hills. Just a few miles in, we pass near the Eddyville Riverport and the sprawling confines of the Kentucky State Penitentiary, a castle-like fortress built on the bluffs above Lake Barkley—a striking landmark with a storied and controversial past.
Continuing eastward, the route maintains a relaxed, pastoral rhythm. This stretch of I-24 parallels the northern edge of the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, a federally managed reserve between Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley. While not directly visible from the highway, this corridor plays a crucial role in drawing outdoor enthusiasts to the region. We cross through Marshall and Trigg Counties, with subtle changes in terrain—rolling hills become slightly more pronounced, and rock cuts begin to appear as we near the Cumberland River. Along the way, you may notice signs for Calvert City and Lake City, both gateway communities to the twin-lake region, offering boating, fishing, and camping access.
As we approach mile marker 65, the exit for U.S. Route 68 toward Cadiz (pronounced “Kay-deez”) comes into view. The town serves as the seat of Trigg County and is known for its annual Ham Festival, antique shops, and proximity to the Land Between the Lakes. U.S. 68 itself is a major east-west route that cuts across the southern half of the state, providing a scenic alternative to I-24 for those looking to explore at a slower pace. The highway interchange here is a modern diamond configuration, providing easy access to Cadiz proper just a few miles south. This marks the eastern end of our drive and serves as a convenient jumping-off point for deeper exploration into Kentucky’s lake country.
Reflecting on this segment of I-24, what stands out most is its balance between function and form. While it’s a critical link in the region’s transportation network, it also offers a quiet beauty—rolling landscapes, hidden lakes, and reminders of Kentucky’s layered history. It’s a route that invites both movement and reflection, whether you’re passing through or headed for the shores of Barkley.
🗺️ Route Map
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