Is Vaughan near Toronto?

Yes, Vaughan is immediately north of Toronto and part of the Greater Toronto Area.

How long does it take?

It typically takes 1 hour and 45 minutes by car.

There are no direct bus services; driving is the standard mode of transport.

Yes, it is one of the busiest highways in Canada, especially on weekends.

There is no direct train service between Gravenhurst and Vaughan.

Gravenhurst

Vaughan

Driving

Gravenhurst to Vaughan

Updated: 31 May 2026

Traveling from Gravenhurst to Vaughan covers roughly 150 kilometers. The most direct path is via Highway 11 South merging into Highway 400 South. You will reach Vaughan in approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes depending on traffic near the Highway 400 and 407 interchange. This route is heavily used by commuters and weekend travelers heading to the GTA. It provides a seamless transition from the cottage country to the urban sprawl of Vaughan.

Total Distance: 150 km driving distance; 135 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via Highway 400 is the fastest method, taking under 2 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving your own car is the most economical way to travel between these two cities.

Compare Gravenhurst to Vaughan Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

1 hour 45 mins

Avg Price

25-35 CAD

Operator

Personal Vehicle

Route

Highway 11 South to Highway 400 South.

Exit at Major Mackenzie Drive or Rutherford Road for central Vaughan access.

Travel Tips

Traffic Alerts
Use apps like Waze to monitor traffic on Highway 400 near the Vaughan border.
Parking
Vaughan Mills offers extensive free parking for visitors.
Timing
Avoid the Friday afternoon northbound traffic if you are returning to Gravenhurst.
Fuel
Gas prices are generally more competitive in Vaughan than in rural Muskoka.
Navigation
Ensure your GPS is set to avoid toll roads if you prefer to save money.

Safety Tips

Highway Vigilance
Highway 400 has high-speed traffic; maintain a safe following distance.
Weather
Check weather reports for the Barrie area, as it often experiences different conditions than Vaughan.
Emergency Kit
Keep a basic emergency kit in your trunk for long highway drives.
Distraction
Do not use your phone while driving; use hands-free systems only.