Tennessee Route 476: Winchester to Tims Ford State Park

Tennessee State Route 476 may not be long, but it packs in a beautiful ride through some of Franklin County’s most inviting countryside. Designated in 2007, this two-lane highway stretches from just west of Winchester into the heart of Tims Ford State Park. It was originally established to provide better access to the lake and state park, and it does that job well—while also giving drivers a scenic taste of southern Middle Tennessee’s rural charm. From rolling pastureland and patches of thick forest to sparkling views of the lake, the route offers a little bit of everything along its short, tranquil journey.

We begin our drive on U.S. Route 64 in the small community of Broadview, just outside Winchester. From there, we head northwest on Mansford Road, which doubles as the designation for SR 476. Almost immediately, the surroundings turn pastoral—open fields, weathered barns, and occasional clusters of homes give the road a quiet and homey atmosphere. A few miles in, the route crosses its first bridge over the Elk River arm of Tims Ford Lake. This segment offers a great view of the water and is especially striking during early morning or late afternoon when the sun catches the lake’s surface just right. Keep an eye out for boat launches and fishing spots tucked just off the main road.

Continuing past the first crossing, SR 476 winds gently through wooded terrain and approaches the park’s eastern edge. We pass several lakefront homes and cabins—many of which are popular short-term rentals for visitors coming to enjoy the lake. The route continues north through wooded terrain before reaching the entrance to Tims Ford State Park. The park itself is a highlight of this drive, offering campgrounds, hiking trails, and access to one of the most popular reservoirs in the region for boating and fishing. While our video ends at the entrance road, the park road continues further, leading to the visitor center, marina, and picnic areas nestled deeper within. For those unfamiliar with the area, Tims Ford is one of Tennessee’s newer parks and was developed with outdoor recreation in mind. Whether you’re there for a hike, a paddle, or just to enjoy the view, SR 476 makes getting there a pleasure in its own right.