Yes, but it requires careful planning and awareness of remote stretches.

How long is the flight?

The flight from Toronto to Thunder Bay is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.

There is no passenger rail service connecting Fort Erie to Thunder Bay.

What is the best time to visit?

Summer offers the best weather for outdoor activities.

Yes, the entire Trans-Canada Highway route is paved and well-maintained.

Fort Erie

Thunder Bay

Flight Driving

Fort Erie to Thunder Bay

Updated: 26 May 2026

Traveling from Fort Erie to Thunder Bay is a significant cross-province journey of over 1,500 kilometers. The most common route involves driving north through Ontario via the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 17). This route takes you around the northern shore of Lake Superior, offering some of the most scenic views in Canada. Because of the distance, many travelers choose to fly from Toronto Pearson to Thunder Bay International Airport. Driving requires at least two full days of travel to ensure safety.

Total Distance: Driving distance is 1,550 km; straight-line air distance is 950 km.

Fastest Way

Flying from Toronto Pearson is the fastest way to reach Thunder Bay.

Cheapest Way

Driving is cheaper for groups, while bus/flight combinations vary by season.

Compare Fort Erie to Thunder Bay Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	4 hours (including connection)	18 hours
Avg Price	$300-$600	$250-$350 in fuel
Operator	Air Canada, Porter Airlines	N/A
Route	Toronto Pearson (YYZ) to Thunder Bay (YQT).	Highway 400 to Highway 69 to Highway 17 (Trans-Canada).
Tip	Book flights at least three weeks in advance for better pricing.	Plan for an overnight stop in Sault Ste. Marie.

Travel Tips

Route Planning
Download offline maps as cell service is non-existent in parts of Northern Ontario.
Gas Stations
Never let your tank drop below half in the stretch between Wawa and Terrace Bay.
Accommodation
Book hotels in Sault Ste. Marie well in advance during summer months.
Vehicle Check
Ensure your brakes and tires are in top condition for the hilly terrain.
Time Zone
Thunder Bay is in the Eastern Time Zone, same as Fort Erie.

Safety Tips

Wildlife
Be extremely cautious of moose on the road at night.
Weather
Lake Superior creates unpredictable weather; be prepared for sudden fog.
Fatigue
Do not attempt to drive the full distance in one day.
Emergency Supplies
Carry extra water, food, and a satellite communicator if possible.