Tennessee State Route 82 offers a scenic and tranquil drive through the heart of south-central Tennessee, connecting the historic town of Lynchburg with the bustling city of Shelbyville. Spanning roughly 14 miles, this stretch of rural highway offers a slice of Tennessee countryside that’s hard to beat—rolling pastures, wooded hollows, and a touch of small-town charm make this an ideal route for a peaceful drive or a detour off the beaten path.
We begin our journey in Lynchburg, well-known as the home of the Jack Daniel’s Distillery and a popular stop for travelers looking to explore Tennessee whiskey country. The route begins at the junction with Tennessee Route 55 near the edge of town. From here, TN-82 heads north into the countryside, immediately immersing us in the gentle beauty of Moore County. The landscape here is pure Tennessee: green fields stretch out on either side of the highway, interspersed with clusters of woods and the occasional barn or farmhouse.
As we leave Lynchburg behind, we pass through the small community of Flat Creek. While it’s not a large town, Flat Creek offers a glimpse into local life with a few roadside businesses, churches, and family homes scattered along the route. There’s a quiet charm in places like this—a reminder of the rural roots that shape much of Tennessee’s identity. The road continues northwest through wide-open farmland that’s dotted with cows and hayfields. During spring and summer, expect to see lush green landscapes with wildflowers blooming along the roadside, while fall brings a show of changing leaves across the hillsides.
Beyond Flat Creek, TN-82 crosses the scenic Duck River, one of the most biologically diverse rivers in North America. While you won’t find an official overlook or rest stop here, the view from the bridge is worth a glance—especially in the early morning when mist often rises off the water. Shortly after crossing the river, we begin to enter the outskirts of Shelbyville.
Known as the Walking Horse Capital of the World, Shelbyville is a lively regional hub in Bedford County. As TN-82 enters town, it takes on the name Kingree Road, curving gently through a mix of residential neighborhoods and light commercial areas. Turning onto South Britain Street and then South Jefferson Street, the route becomes a more urban four-lane road. The houses become closer together, and traffic picks up as we approach the heart of town.
Though the route bypasses the true downtown core, it offers easy access to it—and to the nearby Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration grounds if you’re visiting during event season. The drive ends at the intersection with State Route 64 on the east side of Shelbyville, marking the conclusion of our peaceful ride.
Whether you’re heading to Lynchburg for a distillery tour or just enjoying the pastoral scenery of Bedford and Moore Counties, TN-82 is a great option for a calm, no-rush drive that highlights Tennessee’s quieter, more rural side. It’s especially enjoyable in spring and fall, when the surrounding landscapes are at their most vibrant.
🗺️ Route Map
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