PA 869 begins at an interchange with the US 219 freeway in Adams Township, Cambria County, heading southeast on a four-lane divided highway.

[2][3] PA 869 enters Pavia Township in Bedford County and becomes Burnt House Road, running through more forests with occasional clearings.

After another turn to the south, the route leaves the state park and passes through the residential community of Pavia before heading through more wooded areas with some farms and homes.

PA 869 heads into the residential community of Osterburg and turns northeast onto Central Street, fully entering King Township.

[2][4] Upon leaving Osterburg, PA 869 turns south onto Lumber Street, crossing back into East St. Clair Township and passing through farmland with some woods and development.

At the base of Dunning Mountain, the route intersects the southern terminus of PA 867 in Brumbaugh and turns southeast, heading through a mix of farmland and woodland.