The highway's southern terminus is at U.S. Route 65 (US 65) south of Branson, in Hollister.

The road begins its loop around Branson's west side in a clockwise direction.

The road eventually leaves Hollister and crosses Short Creek in rural Taney County.

In Table Rock State Park, the three highways briefly enter Stone County, where the road encounters the junction with the Showboat Branson Belle.

[3] This stretch of CR 165, along with the portion between Freeman Lan and Opportunity Drive, is designated Historic Highway 165 on street signs.