The A897 single track road is entirely within the Highland council area of Scotland. It runs generally north from the A9 at Helmsdale to the A836 near , east of Melvich. The road passes through or near Kildonan, Kinbrace and Forsinard, and has a junction with the B871 at Kinbrace. It also passes through Achiemore. Helmsdale is on the east-facing North Sea coast of Britain. Melvich is about 40 miles (64 km) away, on the north-facing Atlantic coast. Apart from half a mile (1 km) or so within Helmsdale, the entire road is single track. In 2016 the road was declared the quietest A road in Britain.