U.S. Route 62 between Hardy and Ash Flat offers a short but scenic 10-mile drive through the eastern Ozarks of north-central Arkansas. This segment also carries U.S. Route 412 the entire way, and it serves as a vital east–west connector through Sharp County. While this isn’t the most mountainous stretch of road in the state, the wooded hills and rolling terrain give the drive some visual interest, especially in spring and fall when the foliage is most vibrant.
The journey begins in Hardy, a small town with a surprisingly rich tourist history. Known for its preserved downtown and antique shops, Hardy sits near the banks of the Spring River, a popular destination for kayaking and trout fishing. Just north of the business district, U.S. Route 62 intersects with U.S. Route 63, and from there, the highway heads south briefly before swinging west at the junction with U.S. 62 Business. Almost immediately, travelers cross the Spring River, with a short bridge that gives a fleeting view of the waterway. It’s a tranquil entrance to the more rural parts of Sharp County.
Leaving Hardy, US-62/412 curves southwest and soon enters the town of Highland. This residential area serves as a bedroom community for the broader Hardy-Ash Flat region. While it lacks a true downtown core, Highland is home to several schools and businesses, as well as the central access point to Cherokee Village, a sprawling retirement and vacation community to the northwest. Although not directly on the highway, Cherokee Village is closely tied to this stretch of road, and its proximity adds some subtle traffic influence, especially in summer and during holiday weekends.
South of Highland, the highway skirts the southern edge of Cherokee Village, curving gently through the woods before heading straight into Ash Flat. This town is the county seat of Sharp County and functions as the commercial center of the region. While modest in size, Ash Flat is where you’ll find the main government offices, regional medical facilities, and larger retail stores. The route ends at the intersection with U.S. Route 167, a major north-south highway that continues into Batesville and beyond. This junction is especially important for regional travelers, as it provides direct access toward central Arkansas or further into Missouri to the north.
This entire segment of U.S. Route 62/412 may be brief, but it plays an important role in connecting key communities across north Arkansas. It’s also one of those drives that can surprise you with its relaxed beauty—rolling hills, river crossings, and the feel of small-town America all bundled into just 10 miles. Whether you’re on a road trip through the Ozarks or just making a quick run between towns, this route is a solid example of what Arkansas’s highland highways have to offer.
🗺️ Route Map
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