SC 288 begins at an intersection with U.S. Route 178 (US 178; Moorefield Memorial Highway) east-northeast of Sunset within Pickens County.

It travels to the east-northeast and crosses the Oolenoy River and Mill Creek.

Then, the highway crosses over Gowens Creek and curves to the east just before going over the South Saluda River.

Very shortly after entering town, it meets its eastern terminus, an intersection with US 276 (Geer Highway).

This intersection is just to the east of Slater Marietta Elementary School and Jimi Turner Park.