Ontario Highway 62 is a provincially designated north–south highway in Ontario, Canada. The route provides a direct link from Prince Edward County in the south into the interior of Hastings County, serving small towns, agricultural areas and recreational districts. Its overall length is commonly reported at about 165.8 kilometres (roughly 103 miles).
Route description
The highway begins at Highway 33 in Prince Edward County and travels northward through a mix of rural and urban landscapes. It passes through the city of Belleville, then continues into more sparsely populated countryside, touching communities such as Madoc and Bancroft before reaching its northern terminus in the Hastings Highlands where it merges with Highway 127. For much of its length Highway 62 is a two-lane undivided road, with wider sections and traffic controls in and near larger centres.
Characteristics and maintenance
The highway is part of Ontario's provincial highway network and is maintained by the provincial transportation authority. Its character varies from urban arterial streets in city limits to rural two-lane pavement through farmland and mixed forest. Roadside features can include commercial strips, residential frontage, agricultural access points and scenic vistas favored by tourists and local recreational users.
History and development
Like many provincial routes, Highway 62 evolved from earlier local roads and was gradually improved and realigned to handle greater traffic and to bypass congested town centres. Over time small upgrades, pavement rehabilitation and occasional realignments have been carried out to improve safety and travel times. The highway supports both local mobility and longer-distance travel within eastern Ontario.
Uses and significance
- Local and regional connector between Prince Edward County and the interior of Hastings County.
- Provides access to urban services in Belleville and smaller towns such as Madoc and Bancroft.
- Serves agricultural, commercial and recreational traffic, including access to cottage country and natural attractions.
Notable facts
Highway 62 links coastal and inland landscapes, making it an important corridor for tourism and commerce in the region. Drivers should expect variations in speed limits and road cross-section when moving between municipal areas and rural stretches. For route planning and current conditions consult provincial travel resources or local municipal notices when available through official channels.