Is Petawawa accessible by train?

No, there is no passenger rail service to Petawawa.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes.

What is the best highway?

Highway 417 to Highway 17 is the standard route.

Public bus service is not available for this specific route.

Yes, it is a standard highway drive with well-maintained roads.

Lacolle

Petawawa

Driving

Lacolle to Petawawa

Updated: 27 May 2026

The trip from Lacolle to Petawawa covers roughly 365 kilometers. You will travel through Montreal, across the Ontario border, and past Ottawa on Highway 417. The final leg involves taking Highway 17 West through the Ottawa Valley. Expect the drive to take approximately four and a half hours. Petawawa is home to a major military base, so traffic can be busy during shift changes.

Total Distance: 365 km driving distance; 325 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via Highway 417 and 17 is the fastest, taking 4.5 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the only practical way to reach Petawawa.

Compare Lacolle to Petawawa Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

4 hours 30 mins

Avg Price

$65-$85 in fuel

Operator

Personal Vehicle

Route

A-15 North to Highway 417 West, then Highway 17.

Ensure you have a full tank before leaving Ottawa.

Travel Tips

Military Base Traffic
Be aware of increased traffic near the base during morning and afternoon hours.
Route Planning
Use the 417 to bypass Ottawa city center.
Weather
Check for fog in the Ottawa Valley during early mornings.
Food
Grab supplies in Pembroke as it is the last major town before Petawawa.
Navigation
Download offline maps as cell service can be spotty on Highway 17.

Safety Tips

Speeding
Police presence is common on Highway 17; stick to the limit.
Wildlife
Watch for moose and deer crossing the road in rural sections.
Fatigue
Take breaks at designated rest areas along the 417.
Vehicle Check
Ensure your tires are properly inflated before the long drive.