No passenger rail service connects Elizabethtown-Kitley to Sault Ste. Marie.

What is the best route?

Highway 17 is the primary route.

Yes, Sault Ste. Marie has many hotels and motels.

Yes, provided you drive cautiously and prepare for remote conditions.

Elizabethtown-Kitley

Sault Ste. Marie

Driving

Elizabethtown-Kitley to Sault Ste. Marie

Updated: 28 May 2026

The route from Elizabethtown-Kitley to Sault Ste. Marie spans 850 kilometers, taking you through the heart of Ontario's wilderness. You will travel north to Ottawa and then west along the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 17). The drive typically takes 9 to 10 hours. Sault Ste. Marie sits at the junction of Lake Superior and Lake Huron. It is a gateway to the Agawa Canyon and the northern wilderness.

Total Distance: 850 km driving distance, 650 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving is the only direct method, taking about 9.5 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most practical and cost-effective way to travel.

Compare Elizabethtown-Kitley to Sault Ste. Marie Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

9 hours 30 mins

Avg Price

$140-$180 in fuel

Operator

Personal Vehicle

Route

Highway 417 to Highway 17 West.

The stretch between North Bay and Sault Ste. Marie is scenic but remote.

Travel Tips

Fuel Stops
Fill up in North Bay and Sudbury to avoid running low in remote areas.
Wildlife
Be extremely cautious of moose on the road at dawn and dusk.
Cell Service
Expect limited reception between Sudbury and Sault Ste. Marie.
Road Conditions
Check Ontario 511 for winter road closures before departing.
Pack Food
Bring plenty of snacks and water, as dining options are limited on the highway.

Safety Tips

Night Driving
Avoid driving at night due to the high risk of wildlife collisions.
Fatigue
Take a break every 3 hours to stretch and maintain focus.
Emergency Kit
Keep a winter survival kit in your vehicle at all times.
Speeding
Maintain posted speeds to avoid fines and ensure safety on winding roads.