Is there a direct train?

No, you must transfer at Union Station in Toronto.

How much is the toll?

Tolls vary by distance and time of day on the 407 ETR.

Where can I park in Richmond Hill?

Public parking is available near the GO Station and downtown core.

Yes, Megabus operates routes to Toronto, but local connections are required.

It is mostly flat farmland until you reach the urban sprawl of the GTA.

Chatham

Richmond Hill

Train Driving

Chatham to Richmond Hill

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Chatham to Richmond Hill covers approximately 285 kilometers via the Highway 401 corridor. Most travelers prefer driving, which takes about 3 hours depending on traffic near the Greater Toronto Area. Alternatively, you can take the VIA Rail train from Chatham Station to Union Station in Toronto, then transfer to the GO Transit Richmond Hill line. This route connects the agricultural heart of Southwestern Ontario to the northern suburbs of the GTA. Expect heavy congestion during weekday rush hours when approaching the Highway 400 interchange.

Total Distance: 285 km driving distance; 260 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via the 407 ETR toll highway is the fastest method, typically taking 3 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the cheapest option if traveling with more than one passenger, costing roughly 50 CAD in fuel.

Compare Chatham to Richmond Hill Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	4 hours 45 mins	3 hours 15 mins
Avg Price	70-120 CAD	45-60 CAD in fuel
Operator	VIA Rail	Personal Vehicle
Route	Chatham Station to Union Station, then GO Train Richmond Hill Line.	Highway 401 East to Highway 400 North, then Highway 407 East.
Tip	Book tickets in advance to secure the lowest Escape fare.	Use the 407 ETR toll route to bypass downtown Toronto traffic.

Travel Tips

Avoid Rush Hour
Try to pass through Mississauga and Toronto between 10 AM and 2 PM.
Toll Awareness
The 407 ETR is a transponder-based toll road; ensure your plate is registered.
VIA Rail Booking
Use the VIA Rail mobile app to track your train status in real-time.
GO Transit Fare
Use a PRESTO card for seamless transfers between GO Train and local buses.
Weather Check
Check the MTO Ontario 511 website for highway closures before departing.

Safety Tips

Winter Driving
Highway 401 is prone to whiteouts; carry an emergency kit with blankets.
Fatigue Management
Stop at the ONroute service centers every 2 hours to stay alert.
Emergency Contact
Dial 511 for road conditions or *OPP for police assistance on highways.
Vehicle Prep
Ensure your tires are properly inflated for the long highway stretch.