The route is a two-lane undivided road that runs southeast–northwest through rural areas in western Lehigh County.

The route winds through wooded areas and curves to the west, turning north as it passes more farms.

PA 863 crosses Old Route 22 and becomes Golden Key Road, passing businesses as it intersects I-78/US 22 at a diamond interchange.

The route heads west into Lynn Township and passes through Stines Corner before it winds north through wooded areas.

The road heads west by farms before it turns north and crosses Kistler Creek, winding through forested areas with some fields.