Exploring the Buffalo Trace Route
The historic Buffalo Trace spans roughly 130 miles across southern Indiana, cutting diagonally from the Falls of the Ohio (near Clarksville and Louisville) to Vincennes on the Wabash River. Created by migrating bison and later used by pioneers, its path is closely followed by modern U.S. Highway 150 and State Road 56.
The large heavy beasts had created a pathway. Used for hundreds of years by Native Americans, the path was very likely familiar to the French, who had founded a trading post at Vincennes in the early 1700’s, and who probably visited the mineral licks along the trace. Known as the Buffalo or Vincennes Trace, the travel way was as durable as any road built today. Modern roads have been built along portions of its route and early pioneers used the Trace to cross the state.
In places like Springs Valley State Fish and Wildlife Area you can still walk in the paths that they once took. The route that we have laid out is one that we drove.
Buffalo Trace Park
1540 US-150, Palmyra, IN 47164, Palmyra, Indiana 47164
A Harrison County park near Palmyra, named for an old buffalo route later used by frontier settlers. Enjoy the lake, open grounds, and relaxed outdoor recreation.
Carnegie Center for Art & History
Listed in Buffalo Trace Route, History museum, National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom, Ohio River Scenic Byway
201 E Spring St, New Albany, Indiana 47150
The Carnegie Center for Art & History combines local history and contemporary art in New Albany’s historic downtown. Exhibitions and programs offer an engaging look at the region’s culture, people, and creative traditions.
Scribner House
110 E Main St, New Albany, IN 47150, New Albany, Indiana 47150
Built by city founder Joel Scribner, this early frame house is associated with New Albany’s founding and has been owned by the Piankeshaw Chapter of the DAR since 1917.
George Rogers Clark National Historical Park
Listed in Buffalo Trace Route, George Rogers Clark Sites, Historical landmark, Pioneer History, Revolutionary War
401 S 2nd St, Vincennes, Indiana 47591
The George Rogers Clark National Historical Park commemorates the 1779 capture of Fort Sackville, a Revolutionary War victory that secured the Northwest Territory. Its monumental memorial, murals, and exhibits tell one of America's most important frontier stories.
Floyd County Historical Society Museum (Padgett Museum)
509 W Market St, New Albany, Indiana 47150
The Floyd County Historical Society Museum preserves the history of New Albany through exhibits, archives, and local artifacts. Located beside the historic Culbertson Mansion, it offers an excellent introduction to the people, industries, and river heritage of Floyd County.
Grouseland – Home of William Henry Harrison
3 W Scott St, Vincennes, Indiana 47591
Built in 1804, Grouseland was the home of Indiana Territorial Governor and future President William Henry Harrison. This National Historic Landmark offers guided tours exploring frontier politics, diplomacy, military history, and life in the early American Northwest.
Knox County Veteran Memorial Park
At the corner of 7th and, Broadway St, Vincennes, IN 47591, Vincennes, Indiana 47591
The Knox County Veterans Memorial Park honors local veterans from the Civil War through modern military service. Located in historic Vincennes, it provides a peaceful setting to remember generations of men and women who served the United States.
Historic Rose Hill Neighborhood
402 W Market St, Jeffersonville, Indiana 47130
The Historic Rose Hill Neighborhood features beautifully preserved homes, tree-lined streets, and rich architectural heritage. Located near downtown Jeffersonville, it offers visitors a chance to explore one of the city's oldest residential neighborhoods and experience its Ohio River history.
Springs Valley State Fish and Wildlife Area
Listed in Buffalo Trace Route, Park
S County Road 550 W, Paoli, IN 47454, Paoli, Indiana 47454
Springs Valley State Fish and Wildlife Area is a secluded, 1,228-acre property located just southeast of French Lick, Indiana. The trailhead for the 12 mile multiple-use trail has horse trailer parking, and there are picnic tables and hitching rails along...
William Henry Harrison Bronze statue
1002 N 1st St, Vincennes, IN 47591, Vincennes, Indiana 47591
Bronze statue of William Henry Harrison, the ninth President of the United States, stands prominently on the campus of Vincennes University in Vincennes, Indiana. This historic monument commemorates Harrison’s legacy as a military leader, territorial governor, and statesman. Surrounded by...
Buffalo Trace Park
Carnegie Center for Art & History
Scribner House
George Rogers Clark National Historical Park
Floyd County Historical Society Museum (Padgett Museum)
Grouseland – Home of William Henry Harrison
Knox County Veteran Memorial Park
Historic Rose Hill Neighborhood
Springs Valley State Fish and Wildlife Area
William Henry Harrison Bronze statue
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