From the western terminus with US 40, SR 42 heads east out of Terre Haute, paralleling Interstate 70 (I-70).

SR 42 heads east from Terre Haute passing over I-70.

SR 42 heads east passing through an intersection with U.S. Route 231.

SR 42 heads due east then just south of Eminence SR 42 turns due north and heads through Eminence.

in Monrovia SR 42 has an intersection with State Road 39.