It runs through mountainous, rural terrain, connecting Baileysville and Oceana to the communities of Clear Fork, Lillydale, and Lillyhaven.

Its southern terminus lies within the R. D. Bailey Lake Wildlife Management Area, the bulk of which is located to the west of the highway.

The highway follows a winding path until meeting the Schoolhouse Branch in Clear Fork, which it follows to an intersection with County Route 6.

Following the Clear Fork of the Guyandotte River and the Norfolk Southern Railroad, WV 971 continues north into rural terrain.

Turning northeast, the route passes Westside High School and enters a residential area.