Is there a train to Pembroke?

No, there is no active passenger rail service to Pembroke.

How long is the drive?

The drive typically takes 2.5 hours.

What is the best highway?

Highway 417 is the primary arterial route.

No, this route does not involve any toll highways.

Is it a scenic drive?

Yes, the Ottawa Valley section offers beautiful river views.

Maitland

Pembroke

Driving

Maitland to Pembroke

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Maitland to Pembroke covers approximately 230 kilometers through the heart of Eastern Ontario. You will primarily utilize Highway 416 North before transitioning to Highway 417 West toward Ottawa, eventually connecting to Highway 17. This route takes roughly two hours and thirty minutes depending on traffic near the capital. You will pass through diverse landscapes ranging from the St. Lawrence River valley to the rugged Ottawa Valley. It is a straightforward drive that requires navigating around Ottawa's busy transit corridors.

Total Distance: 230 km driving distance; 195 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via Highway 416 and 417 is the fastest method, taking approximately 150 minutes.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most economical option as there is no direct public transit link between these two specific points.

Compare Maitland to Pembroke Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

2 hours 30 mins

Avg Price

40-60 CAD in fuel

Operator

Personal Vehicle

Route

Highway 416 N to Highway 417 W to Highway 17 W.

Avoid peak rush hour in Ottawa between 7 AM and 9 AM to save time.

Travel Tips

Fuel Up
Fill your tank in Ottawa or Kemptville as gas prices can fluctuate in rural stretches.
Traffic Awareness
Use a GPS app to monitor construction delays on Highway 417.
Rest Stops
Stop in Arnprior for a quick coffee break if you feel fatigued.
Weather Check
Check road conditions in winter as the Ottawa Valley experiences heavy snowfall.
Navigation
Keep a physical map as cellular service can be spotty in remote sections of Highway 17.

Safety Tips

Wildlife
Watch for deer crossing the road, especially during dawn and dusk.
Winter Driving
Ensure your vehicle has winter tires installed from November to April.
Emergency Kit
Carry a basic roadside emergency kit including jumper cables and a flashlight.
Speed Limits
Adhere strictly to speed limits in small towns along Highway 17 to avoid fines.