Is Brandon near Winnipeg?

Yes, Brandon is approximately 215 km west of Winnipeg via Highway 1.

No, there is no direct passenger rail service to Brandon.

Is the drive difficult?

It is long, but the roads are well-maintained and easy to navigate.

What is the best time to visit?

Summer is best for outdoor activities and events.

Are there hotels on the way?

Yes, major towns along the Trans-Canada Highway have plenty of lodging.

Martintown

Brandon

Flight Driving

Martintown to Brandon

Updated: 27 May 2026

Reaching Brandon from Martintown involves a long-haul journey across the Canadian landscape. Most travelers drive the Trans-Canada Highway (Hwy 17) through Ontario into Manitoba, then take Highway 1 west from Winnipeg. Alternatively, you can fly from Ottawa (YOW) to Winnipeg (YWG) and rent a car for the final 2-hour drive to Brandon. The total distance is approximately 2,400 kilometers. This route takes you through the scenic Canadian Shield before opening up into the vast agricultural plains of Western Manitoba.

Total Distance: Driving distance is 2,400 km; straight-line air distance is 1,900 km.

Fastest Way

Flying to Winnipeg and driving to Brandon is the fastest, taking roughly 8 hours total.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most cost-effective method for groups or families.

Compare Martintown to Brandon Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	8 hours	26 hours
Avg Price	$500 - $900	$450 in fuel
Operator	Air Canada/WestJet	Personal Vehicle
Route	YOW to YWG, then drive or shuttle to Brandon.	Hwy 417 to Hwy 17, then Hwy 1 west from Winnipeg.
Tip	Shuttle services exist between Winnipeg airport and Brandon.	Plan for an overnight stay in Thunder Bay to break up the drive.

Travel Tips

Accommodation
Book hotels in Brandon in advance if visiting during the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair.
Road Conditions
Check Manitoba 511 for highway conditions, especially during spring thaw.
Supplies
Carry extra water and snacks for the long stretches between Ontario towns.
Vehicle Check
Ensure your tires are in top condition before starting this 2,400 km journey.
Navigation
Use a GPS with offline capabilities as cell service is intermittent in Northern Ontario.

Safety Tips

Wildlife
Watch for deer and elk crossing the highway, particularly in the early morning.
Fatigue
Do not push through the night; find a motel in Sault Ste. Marie or Thunder Bay.
Emergency Kit
Include a flashlight, jumper cables, and a first-aid kit in your trunk.
Weather
Avoid travel during severe thunderstorm warnings in the summer or blizzards in winter.