It begins in Lansing at an intersection with Iowa Highway 9 at the Black Hawk Bridge and ends at the Minnesota border at New Albin.

As a part of the Drifless Area Scenic Byway and Great River Road, it heads north nestled between the bluffs that tower 300 feet (91 m) over the city and homes that line the Mississippi riverfront.

[3][4][5] After exiting Lansing, the highway draws closer to the river and to the Dakota, Minnesota & Eastern Railroad.

The region is thus called the Driftless Area, referring to the lack of glacial drift, the material left behind by retreating continental glaciers.

Heading northeast, it leaves the city, which is also the state line, crossing into Minnesota as Trunk Highway 26.