Is there a direct train to Ajax?

No, you must transfer from VIA Rail to GO Transit at Oshawa or Guildwood.

How long is the drive?

The drive typically takes 3.5 hours under normal traffic conditions.

The 401 is toll-free, but the 407 ETR is a toll highway nearby.

Where is the nearest station?

The nearest VIA Rail station to Elizabethtown-Kitley is in Brockville.

Is it safe to drive at night?

Yes, but be cautious of wildlife on rural roads leading to the highway.

Elizabethtown-Kitley

Ajax

Train Driving

Elizabethtown-Kitley to Ajax

Updated: 27 May 2026

The journey from Elizabethtown-Kitley to Ajax spans approximately 315 kilometers along the Highway 401 corridor. Driving is the most efficient method, typically taking three and a half hours depending on traffic near the Greater Toronto Area. Alternatively, you can board a VIA Rail train at the Brockville station for a comfortable ride to the Guildwood or Oshawa stations. The route passes through scenic Eastern Ontario landscapes before entering the dense urban sprawl of the Durham Region. Expect heavy congestion during weekday rush hours as you approach the Ajax interchange.

Total Distance: 315 km driving distance; 290 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via Highway 401 is the fastest, taking roughly 3.5 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the cheapest option if traveling with more than one passenger.

Compare Elizabethtown-Kitley to Ajax Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	4 hours	3 hours 30 minutes
Avg Price	$70-$120	$45-$60 in fuel
Operator	VIA Rail	Personal Vehicle
Route	Brockville Station to Oshawa Station, then GO Transit	Highway 401 West
Tip	Book your VIA Rail ticket at least two weeks in advance for the best fare.	Avoid the 401 between 7 AM and 9 AM to bypass heavy commuter traffic.

Travel Tips

Check Traffic
Use the 511 Ontario website to monitor Highway 401 construction delays.
GO Transit
Use your PRESTO card for seamless transfers from VIA Rail to local GO buses.
Fuel Stops
Refuel in Kingston to avoid higher prices near the GTA.
Rest Areas
Utilize the ONroute service centres for clean washrooms and food options.
Weather Prep
Check the forecast for the 401 corridor as weather changes rapidly near the lake.

Safety Tips

Winter Driving
Ensure your vehicle has winter tires if traveling between November and April.
Fatigue Management
Take a 15-minute break every two hours to maintain alertness on the highway.
Emergency Kit
Keep a basic emergency kit with jumper cables and water in your trunk.
Speed Limits
Adhere strictly to the 100 km/h limit, as OPP enforcement is frequent.