Woodlands Trace National Scenic Byway is a 43-mile route through Land Between the Lakes, offering scenic views, wildlife, hiking, and historic stops in western Kentucky and Tennessee.
Woodlands Trace National Scenic Byway, commonly called “The Trace,” is a tranquil, forest-lined corridor stretching approximately 43 miles through the heart of the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area (LBL). This two-lane parkway runs north–south from Grand Rivers, Kentucky to Dover, Tennessee, offering travelers a serene escape from the rush of the interstates. Along the way, it connects visitors to a variety of outdoor attractions including campgrounds, hiking and biking trails, historic sites, and wildlife viewing areas.
Managed by the USDA Forest Service, Woodlands Trace is the backbone of LBL’s internal road network. The parkway gently meanders through lush hardwood forests, open meadows, and scenic overlooks, offering glimpses of Kentucky Lake to the west and Lake Barkley to the east. Popular stops include the Golden Pond Visitor Center, Elk & Bison Prairie, and The Homeplace 1850s Working Farm. Interpretive signs along the route help visitors connect with the area’s rich cultural and natural heritage.
Woodlands Trace is open year-round and is particularly popular in the fall, when the foliage transforms into a brilliant mosaic of reds, yellows, and oranges. Whether you’re touring by car, motorcycle, or bicycle, The Trace offers a peaceful and immersive drive that showcases the beauty and biodiversity of western Kentucky and northern Tennessee.
Explore the full 49-mile drive along Woodlands Trace Parkway from Dover, TN to Grand Rivers, KY, as it winds through the heart of Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. This scenic route offers serene forests, historic landmarks, and lakeside views perfect for…