Highway 535 is a generally straight route oriented in a north–south direction through parts of the Canadian Shield.

It proceeds directly north in a straight line for almost 10 kilometres (6.2 mi), crossing the Wolseley River en route.

The highway eventually diverges from its straight course prior to crossing the French River at West Arm.

It zigzags its way north through rough terrain for several kilometres, passing through several rock outcroppings.

Immediately north of Highway 17, the route crosses the Veuve River and then a rail line.