Flight Driving

Courtright to Grand Falls-Windsor

Updated: 27 May 2026

Traveling from Courtright to Grand Falls-Windsor requires a combination of air travel and ground transport. Most travelers fly into Gander International Airport and rent a car for the 100 km drive west on the Trans-Canada Highway. Alternatively, a cross-country road trip involves driving to North Sydney, taking the ferry to Newfoundland, and driving across the island. This central Newfoundland town is a hub for outdoor activities and history.

Total Distance: Driving distance 2,550 km; straight-line air distance 1,900 km.
Fastest Way
Flying into Gander and driving is the fastest method, totaling about 8 hours.
Cheapest Way
Driving your own vehicle is the most cost-effective for families or groups.
Compare Courtright to Grand Falls-Windsor Routes
Flight
Connecting
Driving
Direct
Duration 8 hours 30 hours
Avg Price 600-1100 CAD 700-1200 CAD
Operator Air Canada Personal Vehicle
Route YYZ to YQX, then drive 1 hour to Grand Falls-Windsor. Hwy 401 to Trans-Canada Hwy 1, ferry to Port aux Basques, then TCH to GFW.
Tip Rental cars are limited in Gander, so book your vehicle before you fly. The drive from Port aux Basques to Grand Falls-Windsor takes about 5 hours.
Travel Tips
  • Rental Cars
    Always confirm your rental car reservation at Gander airport before departure.
  • Highway 1
    The Trans-Canada Highway is the main artery; keep your gas tank full as stations can be far apart.
  • Local Dining
    Try local Newfoundland dishes like Jiggs dinner at restaurants in the town center.
  • Connectivity
    Download offline maps as cell service is spotty between towns in central Newfoundland.
  • Ferry Schedule
    Check the Marine Atlantic website for real-time ferry status and weather delays.
Safety Tips
  • Moose Awareness
    Moose are very active at night; avoid driving on the TCH after dark.
  • Weather Alerts
    Monitor local weather reports for high winds which can affect ferry crossings.
  • Emergency Supplies
    Keep a winter emergency kit in your trunk regardless of the season.
  • Road Hazards
    Watch for construction zones on the Trans-Canada Highway during summer months.
People Also Ask
  • Is there a bus to GFW?
    Yes, DRL Coachlines operates a bus service across the island.
  • How far is Gander from GFW?
    It is approximately 100 kilometers or a one-hour drive.
  • Can I take a train?
    No, there is no passenger rail service in Newfoundland.
  • What is the closest airport?
    Gander International Airport (YQX) is the nearest major airport.
  • Is it safe to drive?
    Yes, but be prepared for long distances and changing weather conditions.
Quick Info
  • From Courtright, Ontario, Canada
  • To Grand Falls-Windsor, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

June to August for the best road conditions and outdoor exploration.

Things to Do in Grand Falls-Windsor
1
Salmonid Interpretation Centre
Learn about the Atlantic salmon and the history of the Exploits River. It is a premier site for viewing salmon migration.
2
Corduroy Brook Nature Trail
Walk through this extensive trail system that winds through the heart of the town. It offers beautiful scenery and local wildlife viewing.
3
Mary March Provincial Museum
Discover the history of the Beothuk people and the industrial heritage of the region. The museum provides deep insight into Newfoundland's past.
4
Exploits River
Enjoy fishing or boating on one of the most significant rivers in Newfoundland. It is a central feature of the town's geography.
Tags
Courtright to Grand Falls-Windsor travel to Grand Falls-Windsor Newfoundland travel guide driving to Grand Falls-Windsor flights to Gander Marine Atlantic ferry Trans-Canada Highway Newfoundland road trip