The analysis of traveling wave transmission characteristics of distribution line is the theoretical basis of traveling wave application in distribution network fault detection and protection. For the high frequency traveling wave signals in distribution network, the distribution parameters of overhead distribution lines considering skin effect are analyzed, and the phase mode transformation method which is not affected by frequency is discussed. By means of numerical calculation, the frequency-dependent curve of parameter transmission is obtained, and the law of frequency-dependent transmission is summarized. According to the characteristics of distribution lines with many branches and short distance, the attenuation characteristics of traveling wave in distribution lines are analyzed. The correctness of the theoretical analysis results is verified by ATP-EMTP simulation.