Is Labrador City safe?

Yes, it is a safe, family-oriented mining community.

Do I need a passport?

No, this is a domestic route within Canada.

Are there car rentals?

Yes, rentals are available at the Wabush Airport.

How long is the drive?

Expect at least 24 hours of active driving time.

No passenger train service exists to Labrador City.

Labrador City

Flight Driving

Dufferin to Labrador City

Updated: 26 May 2026

The journey from Dufferin to Labrador City spans approximately 1,900 kilometers. You will travel through New Brunswick, Quebec, and into Western Labrador. The route primarily utilizes the Trans-Canada Highway and the Trans-Labrador Highway (Route 500). This is a heavy industrial region, and the roads are frequently used by large mining trucks. Air travel is available via the Wabush Airport.

Total Distance: Driving distance 1,950 km; straight-line air distance 1,050 km.

Fastest Way

Flight via PAL Airlines takes 5 hours, saving nearly 20 hours of driving time.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most cost-effective for multiple passengers, costing roughly $500 total.

Compare Dufferin to Labrador City Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	5 hours	24 hours
Avg Price	$700 - $1,200	$450 - $650 in fuel
Operator	PAL Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	Moncton (YQM) to Wabush (YWK) via St. John's or Montreal.	Route 1 to Route 138 (Quebec) to Route 389 to Route 500.
Tip	Wabush Airport serves both Labrador City and Wabush.	Route 389 is notoriously winding and requires extreme caution.

Travel Tips

Route 389 Caution
This road is steep and winding; use low gears when descending.
Tire Pressure
Check your tire pressure frequently due to temperature fluctuations.
Emergency Supplies
Carry a satellite phone as cell service is non-existent on Route 389.
Fuel Stops
Plan your fuel stops in Baie-Comeau and Fermont.
Wildlife
Be prepared for sudden encounters with black bears and moose.

Safety Tips

Road Conditions
Check the Quebec 511 website for Route 389 closures.
Vehicle Maintenance
Ensure your brakes are in top condition for the steep grades.
Winter Driving
Avoid this route in winter unless you are an experienced northern driver.
Emergency Plan
Keep a physical map of the region in your glove box.