Is there a direct train?

No, you must transfer from the VIA Rail line to the GO Transit line.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes about 3.5 hours.

The 401 is free, but the 407 is a toll road.

Is Hamilton a good place to visit?

Yes, it offers a great mix of entertainment and urban amenities.

Yes, regional bus services are available throughout the Golden Horseshoe region.

Gananoque

Hamilton

Train Driving

Gananoque to Hamilton

Updated: 26 May 2026

The journey from Gananoque to Hamilton covers 320 km along the Highway 401 corridor. Driving is the most direct method, taking approximately 3.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a VIA Rail train to Toronto Union Station and transfer to the GO Transit train to reach Hamilton. Hamilton is a major city in the Golden Horseshoe region, known for its waterfalls and the Royal Botanical Gardens. This route is a common path for those traveling into the Greater Toronto Area.

Total Distance: 320 km driving distance; 295 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving is the fastest method, especially outside of peak rush hour times.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most cost-effective for groups of two or more.

Compare Gananoque to Hamilton Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	4 hours 30 mins	3 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	100-170 CAD	80-110 CAD in fuel
Operator	VIA Rail / GO Transit	Personal Vehicle
Route	VIA Rail to Union Station, then GO Transit to Hamilton Station.	Highway 401 West to Highway 403 West.
Tip	The GO train provides a seamless connection from Union Station to Hamilton.	Use the Highway 403 exit for easy access to Hamilton.

Travel Tips

Transit
GO Transit is the most reliable way to travel within the Greater Toronto Area.
Traffic
The 401 and 403 through Hamilton are extremely busy; avoid peak hours if possible.
Parking
Hamilton GO station has a large parking garage for commuters.
Booking
Check the GO Transit schedule online for the most up-to-date train times.
Navigation
Use a GPS to find the best route through the local streets of Hamilton.

Safety Tips

Highway Safety
Stay in the middle lanes on the 401 to avoid merging traffic at busy interchanges.
Pedestrian Safety
Be aware of cyclists on the local trails.
Emergency
Keep your phone charged and have a roadside assistance plan.
Night Driving
Ensure your vehicle's lights are working properly for highway travel.