SR 256 connects Interstate 81 (I-81) with Weyers Cave in northern Augusta County and Grottoes, which is home to Grand Caverns, in southeastern Rockingham County.

SR 256 begins at an intersection with US 11 (Lee Highway) west of Weyers Cave.

The state highway heads east as two-lane undivided Weyers Cave Road, which immediately has a diamond interchange with I-81.

The state highway passes along the southern edge of the town as 3rd Street and provides access to Grand Caverns, a National Natural Landmark that was originally known as Weyer's Cave and is the oldest show cave in the United States.

SR 256 has a grade crossing of Norfolk Southern Railway's Roanoke District before reaching its eastern terminus at US 340 (East Side Highway).