The route travels generally in a west–east direction, signed to begin at an intersection with SC 28 Business (SC 28 Bus.; North Mechanic Street) in downtown Pendleton. However, SCDOT designates the western terminus to not start until North Broad Street a few blocks later. East of Pendleton, SC 88 travels through somewhat rural areas and has a roundabout intersection with US 178. The route continues until it terminates at an intersection with SC 8, west of the suburban areas of Powdersville.[2][3]