Traveling across the heart of western Tennessee, U.S. Highway 412 provides a scenic and efficient route from the rural community of Chestnut Grove to the regional hub of Jackson. This 58-mile stretch offers a variety of small-town charm, forested landscapes, and quick-moving expressway travel. We begin our journey where US-412 meets TN-100, just east of Chestnut Grove, and follow the highway westward through some of the state’s most underrated countryside.
Our first major stop is the town of Linden, a quiet and historic community nestled in the Tennessee River valley. This area is known for its natural beauty, particularly along the Buffalo River, which parallels portions of the route and offers kayaking and fishing opportunities. Downtown Linden is a nice detour if you’re interested in antique shops or a bite to eat, and it’s also home to local events like the Buffalo River Spring Festival. From Linden, the highway continues its westward course through a rolling valley setting dotted with farmland, dense tree cover, and the occasional ridge.
After winding through these picturesque surroundings, we cross the Tennessee River just east of Perryville, a wide and peaceful stretch of water that gives this part of the route a brief but memorable waterfront feel. The crossing itself offers scenic views, especially at sunset. Once across, we begin a steady ascent out of the valley as we approach Parsons, a small but bustling town where US-412 meets US-641. This junction is the gateway to both recreational destinations like the Natchez Trace State Forest to the north and the Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge to the west.
From Parsons to Jackson, US-412 transitions into a modern four-lane divided highway, and we pick up speed as we pass through Darden and Lexington. Lexington is the largest town between Parsons and Jackson, and it’s worth noting for travelers seeking a break—there are ample dining, fuel, and lodging options here. The town also offers access to Beech Lake, a popular recreational site for fishing and boating.
The final leg of the trip brings us into Jackson, one of western Tennessee’s key cities. As we enter the outskirts, US-412 becomes more urban in character, lined with commercial development and signalized intersections. The drive concludes at the intersection with U.S. Highway 70, right on the eastern edge of Jackson’s city center. From here, travelers can continue deeper into town or connect with I-40 for longer hauls across the region.
🗺️ Route Map
0 Comments