Alternate U.S. Route 72 (US 72 Alt.) exists in Alabama on the south side of the Tennessee River between Muscle Shoals and Decatur, while US 72 follows on the north side of the river between Florence and Athens.
Alternate U.S. Route 72 (US 72 Alt.) is located in Alabama on the southern bank of the Tennessee River, connecting Muscle Shoals and Decatur, whereas US 72 follows the northern bank of the river, linking Florence and Athens.