It runs largely parallel to NC 55, extending farther west towards Hillsborough which can be reached by continuing on US 70.

After an interchange with I-40 (exit 274 on I-40), it crosses NC 54 and turns sharply northeast along Hope Valley Road.

The road gradually bends back to the north, traversing a heavily residential area of South Durham.

Turning to the northwest, the route passes through Duke Forest, before coming to its northern terminus at Business US 70 (Hillsborough Road).

On May 4, 2023, the North Carolina State Board of Transportation voted to name three miles between Duke University Road and Kerley Road "Coach K Highway" for Duke basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski.