It consists of roads in the state that travel through areas of scenic, historic, and cultural significance.

As of 2007, the total mileage of all scenic byways in Kentucky includes up to 1,346.405 miles (2,166.829 km) worth of state highways and local roadways.

The byway system is controlled by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet and governed by Kentucky Revised Statutes 177.571-177.576.

[2] The intent of this system is to provide travelers with a safe and interesting alternate route.

The state's scenic byway shield features a tree on the left half of the sign with a couple of black birds flying from it.