State Highways

Explore America's diverse network of state highways—regional routes managed by individual states that connect towns, cities, parks, and scenic landscapes.

State highways form the backbone of regional travel across the United States, offering essential connections between cities, rural communities, and major national routes. Managed by individual state departments of transportation, these highways vary widely in scale—from narrow rural byways to multi-lane expressways rivaling interstates in traffic and speed. While numbering systems and signage conventions differ from state to state, each network plays a critical role in local mobility and economic development.

Unlike the federally designated Interstate and U.S. Highway systems, state highways are developed and maintained at the state level, giving them a unique character and flexibility. Some follow historic paths and scenic corridors, while others serve as modern commuter routes or urban spurs. Many are vital links to state parks, natural attractions, and lesser-known destinations that don't fall within the national systems.

On this site, we highlight a growing collection of notable state highways, organized by region and state. Whether you're tracing a scenic loop through the mountains, navigating a fast-moving corridor through a metro area, or exploring forgotten rural routes, our guides offer detailed overviews, and video journeys to help you plan your next adventure.

State Highway vs Route vs Road...

State Departments of Transportation use different terminology for their designated road systems, with some states using "state highway," others "state road," and still others "state route." These distinctions, though seemingly minor, often reflect historical and legislative traditions within each state. The choice of a particular term can be tied to the legal language used when the road network was first established or expanded. For example, a state might have initially defined its network as a "system of highways" for commerce and travel, while another may have focused on creating a "system of roads" for local and inter-city connections. The term "state route" is often a more modern designation that emphasizes a specific numbered path for navigation rather than the physical characteristics or purpose of the road itself. While the exact reasoning for each state's choice is complex and rooted in its unique history, the map on the right provides a visual guide to which term is used where.

Explore State Routes

Tennessee Route 155: Eastbound in Nashville

Tennessee Route 155: Eastbound in Nashville

Cruise eastbound on Tennessee Route 155 (Briley Parkway) through Nashville for 16 miles of convenient interchanges, city views, and access to local highlights like Opry Mills and the Cumberland River.

Arkansas Highway 74: Marshall to Snowball

Arkansas Highway 74: Marshall to Snowball

Take a scenic 7-mile drive on Arkansas Highway 74 from Marshall to Snowball through the Ozark Mountains. Enjoy rolling hills, forest scenery, and peaceful backroads perfect for a leisurely drive or outdoor adventure.

Arkansas Highway 16: Cross Roads to Greers Ferry

Arkansas Highway 16: Cross Roads to Greers Ferry

Experience the scenic drive along Arkansas Highway 16 from Cross Roads to Greers Ferry. This 9-mile route takes you through classic Ozark landscapes, across the picturesque Narrows bridge on Greers Ferry Lake, and into the heart of Arkansas’s outdoor recreation country. Discover local highlights, things to see, and why this route is a must for anyone exploring north-central Arkansas.

Arkansas Highway 265 – Crossover Rd in Fayetteville

Arkansas Highway 265 – Crossover Rd in Fayetteville

Take a scenic 5-mile drive along Arkansas Highway 265—Crossover Road—in Fayetteville, from AR-16 to Joyce Blvd. Discover neighborhoods, green spaces, and local landmarks that showcase the best of east Fayetteville.

Arkansas Highway 225: Quitman to Cross Roads

Arkansas Highway 225: Quitman to Cross Roads

Take a scenic drive along Arkansas Highway 225 from Quitman to Cross Roads and experience the charm of rural Cleburne County. Discover rolling farmland, quiet woods, and classic small-town Arkansas in this peaceful six-mile route.

Arkansas Highway 356: Quitman

Arkansas Highway 356: Quitman

Take a 2-mile drive along Arkansas Highway 356 through Quitman, AR, and experience small-town charm, peaceful farmland, and a scenic country route connecting AR-25 and AR-225. Perfect for a relaxing detour or local road trip.

Arkansas Highway 392: Harrison

Arkansas Highway 392: Harrison

Cruise 11 miles along Arkansas Highway 392 through the heart of Boone County, exploring rural landscapes, small towns, and the lively streets of Harrison. Discover what makes this Ozark route a local favorite and find the best stops along the way.

Arkansas Highway 154: Petit Jean State Park to Centerville

Arkansas Highway 154: Petit Jean State Park to Centerville

Experience the best of Arkansas backroads as we travel 15 miles along Highway 154 from Petit Jean State Park to Centerville. Enjoy mountain switchbacks, sweeping vistas, a riverside crossing, and the peaceful farmland of the Arkansas River Valley. Route highlights include Petit Jean Viewpoint, historic bridges, and classic scenic Arkansas landscapes—perfect for a relaxing drive or an afternoon adventure.

Kentucky Highway 676: Frankfort

Kentucky Highway 676: Frankfort

Travel Kentucky Highway 676 through Frankfort for four miles of scenic river views, easy access to parks and historic sites, and a direct connection between downtown and the city’s busy east end. Discover what makes this short drive an essential piece of Frankfort’s transportation puzzle.

Kentucky Highway 420: Frankfort

Kentucky Highway 420: Frankfort

Explore Kentucky Highway 420 through Frankfort—a short but scenic 2-mile route connecting the Kentucky State Capitol to the East-West Connector (KY-676). Discover historic sites, river views, and essential travel connections in Kentucky’s capital city.