From the southern terminus, the route heads north-northwest through a valley formed by the creek.

Through Jefferson County, it passes through Bergholz and Springfield Township.

While still closely following the creek and railroad, the route passes through the community of Wattsville.

As the route nears Mechanicstown, SR 524 curves to the north and separates from the creek and railroad.

At Mechanicstown, the route ends at SR 39 at a stop-controlled intersection; Apollo Road (Carroll County Route 12) continues north through the intersection.