AR 28 runs southeast to Waldron, where it has a junction with US Highway 71 (US 71) on the city's west side.

After this intersection, AR 80 continues due east as a section line road and major east–west route in the city.

Continuing east, the highway serves as the western terminus for AR 248 just south of the Poteau River near the eastern city limits of Waldron.

Just east of this junction, AR 80 passes the Poteau Work Center owned and operated by the United States Forest Service.

The route winds through the forest, serving as the eastern terminus of AR 250 before entering Yell County.