Ontario Highway 4 facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
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Location of Highway 4 in Southern Ontario
Current route Former route |
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| Route information | ||||||||||
| Length | 100.8 km (62.6 mi) | |||||||||
| Existed | February 26, 1920–present | |||||||||
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| South end |  Highway 3 – St. Thomas |
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 Highway 401 Highway 402 Highway 7 |
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| North end |  Highway 8 – Clinton |
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| Location | ||||||||||
| Major cities: | St. Thomas, London | |||||||||
| Towns: | Exeter, Clinton | |||||||||
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Highway 3BKing's Highway 4, often called Highway 4, is an important road in Ontario, Canada. It's a special kind of road called a provincial highway, which means it's managed by the province. This highway starts in the south at Highway 3 near Southwold. It then travels north, connecting different towns and cities, until it reaches Highway 8 in Clinton.
Highway 4 is about 100.8 kilometers (62.6 miles) long. It helps people travel between places like St. Thomas and London. It also passes through three different areas called Elgin County, Middlesex County, and Huron County.
Contents
What is a King's Highway?
In Ontario, a "King's Highway" is a main road that connects cities and towns. These roads are managed by the provincial government. They are important for travel, trade, and getting around the province. Highway 4 is one of these key routes.
Where Does Highway 4 Go?
Highway 4 begins its journey in the south near St. Thomas. This city is known for its railway history. From there, the highway heads north.
Connecting Major Cities: St. Thomas and London
One of the most important parts of Highway 4 is how it links St. Thomas to London. London is a much larger city and a major hub in Southwestern Ontario. The highway makes it easy for people to commute for work or visit friends and family between these two cities.
Journey Through Counties
As you travel north on Highway 4, you pass through different types of landscapes. First, it goes through Elgin County. Then, it enters Middlesex County, where London is located. Finally, it continues into Huron County, which is known for its agricultural lands and proximity to Lake Huron.
Northern End in Clinton
The highway's journey ends in the town of Clinton. Clinton is a smaller community in Huron County. Here, Highway 4 meets Highway 8, which continues to other parts of the region.
History of Highway 4
Highway 4 has been around for a long time. It was officially established on February 26, 1920. This means it has been serving travelers and communities for over a century! Over the years, parts of the highway might have been changed or improved to make travel safer and faster.
Why is Highway 4 Important?
Highway 4 plays a big role in daily life for many people. It helps farmers transport their crops to markets. It allows businesses to move goods between cities. Most importantly, it helps people visit family, go to school, or enjoy the many attractions in the region. It's a vital link in Ontario's road network.
Images for kids
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The Highway 4 / Talbot Street junction in St. Thomas
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Highway 4 north of St. Thomas in 1948
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Former alignment of Highway 4 looking north towards Lambeth from the Highway 402 interchange in London
