MS 501 passes through the unincorporated community of Pineville where a general store, a church, and some houses are in the vicinity.

After crossing into Scott County, the road's general direction changes slightly to the north-northeast, still within the national forest.

The state highway passes through the community of Norris and crosses over Interstate 20 without an interchange and the road forms the boundary of Forest's city limits.

MS 501 passes a softball field and arena complex before entering a more residential neighborhood of the city where it follows Main Street.

[5][6] By 1955, the road east of Pineville had been removed from the state highway system, though the remaining portion within Smith County was paved.