It connects Lewiston to Brunswick, following the Androscoggin River valley.

ME 196 begins at a junction with US 202, ME 11, and ME 100 in downtown Lewiston and heads southeast.

The two roads then merge together as it exits downtown and ME 196 continues as Lisbon Street.

The route runs by the Androscoggin River and interchanges Alfred A. Plourde Parkway, which gives access to I-95 from the highway.

The route continues along the Androscoggin River heading southeast.