U.S. Route 79

U.S. Route 79 (US 79) is a north–south United States highway that spans approximately 855 miles, linking central Texas to western Kentucky. It begins in the city of Round Rock, Texas (just north of Austin), and travels northeastward across multiple states before ending at its northern terminus in Russellville, Kentucky. The route serves as an important regional connector through rural communities and mid-sized cities, providing access to scenic countryside, historical sites, and transportation corridors.

In Texas, US 79 passes through cities such as Taylor, Rockdale, Buffalo, and Palestine, where it intersects with major highways like I-45 and US 84. It continues through East Texas into Louisiana, clipping the northwestern part of the state with a significant pass through Shreveport. In Arkansas, US 79 takes a meandering northeast path through Camden, Pine Bluff, and Stuttgart, eventually merging with US 63 near Stuttgart and heading toward Memphis.

Crossing the Mississippi River into Tennessee, the highway connects with the city of Memphis, then continues northeast through the rolling hills of Middle Tennessee, serving towns like Paris and Clarksville. It finally enters Kentucky, winding through scenic farmland before concluding in Russellville.

US 79 is historically significant in multiple locations—especially in Memphis, where it briefly overlaps with Elvis Presley Boulevard. It’s also known for connecting travelers to Civil War sites, blues music history, and small-town Americana. Though not part of the Interstate system, US 79 plays a vital role in regional transportation across the Mid-South.