If you ever find yourself needing a peaceful alternative to Interstate 40 through the heart of East Tennessee, U.S. Route 70 between Crossville and Rockwood is one of those hidden gems that never disappoints. This roughly 24-mile stretch carries us eastward through rolling countryside, small communities, and the rugged edges of the Cumberland Plateau, showcasing both pastoral beauty and dramatic mountain cuts that remind us why this corridor has been a vital east-west passage for decades.
Starting right in the heart of Crossville, we head east from the crossroads with U.S. Route 127. Crossville itself is a lively little city perched atop the plateau — known as the “Golf Capital of Tennessee” — so it’s worth grabbing a coffee or checking out one of the many antique shops before rolling out. Once we ease out of town past the TN-101 junction, Route 70 shifts from city streets to a more open two-lane highway. It’s here that the scenery takes over: we ride gentle hills surrounded by pastures dotted with classic barns and grazing cattle.
Cruising into the historic community of Crab Orchard, we pass under Interstate 40 not once, but twice — a reminder that for generations, this was the main road long before the interstate sped up travel. Crab Orchard is famous for its unique sandstone, so if you have time, keep an eye out for local stone yards. Southeast of Crab Orchard, the road winds through Ozone and Westel, tiny settlements tucked into wooded ridges and deep cuts through rock. Near Ozone Falls, one of Tennessee’s prettiest waterfalls hides just a short walk off the roadside — definitely worth stretching the legs if the weather’s good. Continuing on, we cross Piney Creek, a scenic little crossing that signals we’re nearly to our finish line. We wrap up this relaxing drive at the intersection with the Mt. Roosevelt Scenic Overlook Access Road, just outside of Rockwood. If you have the time, take that spur up to the overlook — the views of the plateau and valley below are a must-see.
This route is perfect for travelers wanting to bypass interstate traffic and see a slice of authentic Cumberland Plateau countryside. Between the rolling farms, small mountain communities, and natural landmarks like Ozone Falls and Mt. Roosevelt, there’s plenty to enjoy along the way. Whether you’re passing through or planning a local day trip, U.S. Route 70 from Crossville to Rockwood proves that the older highways still have the best stories to tell.
🗺 Notable Locations
11:12 Crab Orchard
18:25 Ozone
24:53 Time Zone Change – Welcome to the Eastern Time Zone
Notes about this video: The video itself was taken in 4k — hence the 4k Logo during the intro. However, somehow or another, YouTube decided it was only 1080p. Further, YouTube compression and a dirty windshield all but killed several areas of this video. That being said, this route is on the schedule for a re-shoot next time we’re in the area.
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