The western terminus of State Route 217 is at a T-intersection with State Route 141 approximately 1.75 miles (2.82 km) east of the unincorporated community of Kitts Hill.

Its eastern terminus is at State Route 7 nearly 1.25 miles (2.01 km) north of the village of Athalia.

The route mainly passes through some hilly terrain and drops in elevation before reaching the Ohio River valley.

State Route 217 runs exclusively within Lawrence County.

No segment of the route is incorporated within the National Highway System, a system of highways important for the country's economy, mobility and defense.