U.S. Route 321: Maryville to Friendsville – Tennessee

Drive America’s Highways for 15 miles south along U.S. Route 321 from Maryville to Friendsville, Tennessee.

Starting our journey in the heart of Maryville, Tennessee, we hop onto U.S. Route 321 at its busy junction with U.S. Route 411. Maryville, a charming small town nestled in Blount County, serves as a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains and is home to Maryville College, one of the oldest colleges in the region. As we roll south along US-321, the first stretch takes us through the quieter residential sections of Maryville, where tree-lined streets and local businesses give us a gentle send-off before the landscape begins to open up.

Once we clear the city limits, Route 321 quickly transforms into a scenic drive through Tennessee’s rolling countryside. Gentle hills rise and fall alongside the road, with a patchwork of farmland and clusters of forest that hint at the Appalachian foothills just to the east. It’s a peaceful stretch for drivers who enjoy the blend of open pastures and wooded hideaways—perfect for a leisurely cruise or an impromptu roadside stop for photos. Keep an eye out for local farm stands and hidden gems along the way, especially during the growing season when fresh produce and homemade goods are plentiful.

Approaching Friendsville, the route takes on a distinctly small-town feel once again. Friendsville is a tight-knit community known for its laid-back atmosphere and proximity to Fort Loudoun Lake, which lies just a few miles to the southwest. As we navigate through the heart of town, you’ll notice a mix of historic homes, local churches, and neighborhood spots that remind travelers of Tennessee’s warm hospitality. Midway through Friendsville, US-321 dips southwest briefly before swinging back west near the edge of town. From there, we cruise a couple more miles to our final turn—where we meet Tennessee State Route 95 and head south toward the river if we choose to extend the trip.

For anyone exploring this part of Blount County, this drive is more than just a connector between two towns; it’s a pleasant slice of East Tennessee backroad charm. Consider pairing it with a visit to nearby Fort Loudoun State Park, a picnic by the lake, or a detour into the Smokies if you’re feeling adventurous. Whether you’re a local retracing familiar roads or a traveler discovering these backroads for the first time, US-321 from Maryville to Friendsville serves up a taste of the gentle beauty that defines this corner of the Volunteer State.