I have taken that route more times than I can remember. I came to Magnolia in 1952. My wife is a native of Magnolia. OK ... back to the route.
Just as you have outlined it except that at Rusk you take TX 110 to New Summerfield. Actually, I have often taken a Farm/Market road as a short cut, but I do not recommend it for first time.
I know every inch of these roads. I was superintendent of the Palestine District of the Methodist Church and the area went all the way down to Riverside north of Huntsville; included Trinity, Lovelady, Crockett, Alto, Rusk, and New Summerfield along the roads you have asked about. The road from Crockett to Alto is El Camino Real--the old Royal Road between Nacogdoches and San Antonio. You should enjoy the drive. You will pass by the Mission State Park where there is a replica of the mission, San Francisco de las Tejas. Beautiful little park with overnight camping.
BTW, you take US 69 from Alto to Rusk, and at Henderson take TX 43 to Marshall. I was pastor in Henderson for seven years and in the early days of my ministry I was pastor of a small church in Marshall, right on TX 43.
I've told you far more than you asked, but I hope this may be helpful as you plan your trip.
We are going up to Petit Jean State Park in two weeks. Hope the weather will be great--for us and for you.
