NC 268 is a predominantly rural highway that traverse along or near the Yadkin River and its tributaries, between U.S. Route 321 (US 321) and US 601, and through the Sauratown Mountains in its eastern section. Its most traversed section is between Wilkesboro and Elkin. NC 268 overlaps with one state scenic byway: the Upper Yadkin Way, between US 321 and W. Kerr Scott Dam and Reservoir.