U.S. Route 79: Paris Landing State Park to Paris – Tennessee

Leaving behind the peaceful shoreline of Paris Landing State Park, we head south on U.S. Route 79, tracing a 16-mile stretch through the rolling hills and farmlands of northwest Tennessee. This route connects one of the region’s most scenic recreational areas—just steps from Kentucky Lake—to the city of Paris, the county seat of Henry County and a hub of West Tennessee charm.

Our journey kicks off at the entrance to the state park, just west of the Ned R. McWherter Bridge, which spans the Tennessee River’s impoundment into Kentucky Lake. From here, U.S. 79 wastes no time picking up the pace, transitioning into a four-lane divided highway almost immediately. Within moments, we pass the intersection with Tennessee State Route 119, a connector heading northwest toward the community of Cottage Grove and the Kentucky border.

Continuing southwest, the scenery alternates between lush forest and open fields, typical of this section of the state. Before long, we reach the junction with TN-140, which provides access eastward toward Puryear and Hazel, and westward to Springville. This portion of U.S. 79 is efficient but far from dull—especially in early fall, when the leaves burst into vibrant color. Though there aren’t many roadside attractions along the way, the highway itself provides sweeping views of farmland and the occasional distant ridge, making for a peaceful drive.

As we approach the outskirts of Paris, we encounter the first intersection with TN-218, known locally as the Paris Bypass. This northern segment of the bypass provides an alternative route for travelers looking to skirt downtown congestion. U.S. 79 continues straight into town, where it soon meets the southern segment of TN-218—another bypass leg that loops around the west side of Paris. From here, the route begins to feel more urban, transitioning from rural highway to a more commercial corridor.

Once inside Paris proper, the highway passes several recognizable chains and local businesses before reaching Tennessee Secondary Route 356 (East Wood Street). At this junction, U.S. 79 turns due south, but for the purposes of this drive, we wrap up just before that turn. The full Paris experience lies just a bit further down the road, but this segment serves as a convenient and picturesque approach to town.

Whether you’re returning from a weekend at Paris Landing, towing a boat from a day out on Kentucky Lake, or simply making your way into town, this section of U.S. Route 79 offers a reliable and scenic gateway into the heart of Henry County.

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