From its southern terminus SR 28 heads northwest, initially along the border between the national forest and the state park. After about the highway leaves Douglas County and enters Carson City (independent city) and fully enters the state park. Shortly thereafter the highway crosses over North Canyon Creek, and about after entering the state park, the highway leaves the park and enters the Humboldt–Toiyabe National Forest. Assuming a northerly course, SR 28 continues through the national forest and, after about another , the highway leave Carson City and enters Washoe County.