Runs south for 8 miles, where State Hwy B joins it for a 2-mile stretch to the western edge of Jerico Springs.

It then crosses the BNSF railroad Fort Scott sub in downtown Lockwood; then runs south for 14 miles to a junction with Missouri Route 96.

In Pierce City, it shares a 2 block stretch of Missouri Route 37; then turns south & crosses the BNSF Cherokee Sub.

Two miles south of Pierce City, it intersects US Route 60 at Yonkerville; also the home of the Monett Municipal Airport.

Route 97 runs south for 7 miles, passing the unincorporated community of Pulaskifield.