The western terminus of the route is at an interchange with Interstate 85 (I-85) approximately 9 miles (14 km) west of Auburn.

The eastern terminus of the route is at its junction with US 29/US 80 approximately 8 miles (13 km) east of Tuskegee.

From its origination, State Route 186 passes through the Tuskegee National Forest.

The two-lane route serves as a connector route between I-85 and Phenix City and Columbus, Georgia via U.S. Highway 80.

[2] The entire route is in Macon County.