The drive
This drive runs east, downriver, from Madison to Rising Sun. Madison is a historic Ohio River town whose National Historic Landmark District is the largest contiguous one in the country, and its tourism office points to the Ohio River Scenic Byway for drives to Vevay and Rising Sun.
SR 56 goes to Vevay, and SR 156 takes over from there. SR 156 is a mostly rural two-lane road that passes Markland Dam, runs parallel to the river through Florence, bends north to Patriot, and ends at SR 56 south of Rising Sun. Daily traffic in 2010 was as low as 1,400 vehicles between Florence and Patriot.
The curves are gentle. The river and the small towns are why people drive it. The route is 49.0 miles and takes about 1 hr 10 min.
Along the way
- Madison
- Vevay
- Ohio River
- Patriot
- Rising Sun
Good to know
- SR 156 is a quiet two-lane road, so expect farm and local traffic rather than through traffic.
- Madison has its own historic district and Clifty Falls State Park, which are worth time before or after the drive.
- Check TrafficWise for current closures; the road is maintained by INDOT.
Open all year, weather permitting. Roads close for snow, fire, storms and repairs: before you set off, check INDOT TrafficWise (511IN).
Questions about this drive
How long is the Ohio River Scenic Byway from Madison to Rising Sun?
The drive on SR 56 and SR 156 is 49.0 miles and takes about 1 hr 10 min.
Which towns are on the Ohio River Byway in Indiana?
This drive goes from Madison through Vevay, Florence and Patriot to Rising Sun.
Is the drive from Madison to Rising Sun twisty?
No. It has mostly gentle curves along the river.
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More drives near here
Distance, time, elevation, curves and intensity are from Carve's route. Checked 2026-10-28.