The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) internally designates this road SR 0197 to distinguish it from the other PA 97.

North of Waterford, PA 97 splits from US 19 but remains on the Perry Highway.

Although both roads head north to the city of Erie, PA 97 takes a more easterly alignment as it travels northward.

After 8.7 miles (14.0 km), PA 97 meets Interstate 90 (I-90) at exit 27 immediately south of Erie.

US 6 traveled along the current PA 97 designation from Waterford to Erie as the Lakes-to-Sea Highway.