Its southern end point in Catlettsburg was originally at the underpass where Walnut and Louisa Streets once split.

KY 168 begins at an intersection with US 23/US 60 in Catlettsburg, heading west on two-lane undivided Paul F. Purvis Road.

The route heads through forested areas with sparse development, curving northwest before winding to the north.

KY 168 continues north through more of Ashland before curving northwest and crossing a CSX railroad line, at which point it heads into Westwood and becomes Wheatley Road.

The route passes through residential and commercial areas, turning northeast onto Hoods Creek Pike.