Is Edmundston near the US border?

Yes, Edmundston is located directly across the border from Madawaska, Maine.

There is no direct bus service from Fairhaven to Edmundston.

Yes, the drive through the Saint John River Valley is very picturesque.

Are there hotels in Edmundston?

Yes, there are several major hotel chains located near the highway exits.

What is the best time to drive?

Daylight hours are recommended for better visibility of wildlife.

Fairhaven

Edmundston

Driving

Fairhaven to Edmundston

Updated: 27 May 2026

Traveling from Fairhaven to Edmundston requires a 450-kilometer drive across the province. You will start by taking the ferry to L'Etete, then proceed to Route 1, and finally merge onto the Trans-Canada Highway (Route 2) heading west. This route takes you past Fredericton and through the scenic Saint John River Valley. The journey typically takes about 5 hours of driving time.

Total Distance: 450 km driving distance; 310 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via the Trans-Canada Highway is the fastest and most direct route.

Cheapest Way

Driving your own car is the only practical way to complete this trip.

Compare Fairhaven to Edmundston Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

5 hours 15 mins

Avg Price

$90-$110 in fuel

Operator

Personal Vehicle

Route

Deer Island Ferry, Route 1, Route 7, and Route 2 (Trans-Canada).

The Trans-Canada Highway is well-maintained but watch for heavy truck traffic.

Travel Tips

Rest Stops
Use the official New Brunswick visitor information centers along Route 2 for clean washrooms.
Tolls
There are no tolls on the Trans-Canada Highway in New Brunswick.
Language
Edmundston is a bilingual city; expect to hear both French and English spoken fluently.
Weather
Check the forecast for the Saint John River Valley as weather can change rapidly.
Traffic
Avoid traveling through Fredericton during peak rush hour times to save time.

Safety Tips

Fatigue
Take breaks every two hours to avoid driver fatigue on the long highway stretch.
Wildlife
Be vigilant for deer and moose, especially when driving at night.
Vehicle Check
Ensure your tire pressure and fluid levels are checked before departing Fairhaven.
Emergency Services
Dial 911 for any emergency; cellular service is generally reliable along Route 2.