How long is the drive?

The drive is approximately 10.5 hours long.

There is no direct passenger train service to Rivière-du-Loup.

What is the best route?

Taking Highway 20 is the most direct.

There are no tolls on this route.

Yes, provided you are prepared for long-distance driving.

Notre-Dame-du-Nord

Rivière-du-Loup

Driving

Notre-Dame-du-Nord to Rivière-du-Loup

Updated: 31 May 2026

The journey from Notre-Dame-du-Nord to Rivière-du-Loup covers approximately 900 kilometers. You will travel through the Abitibi region, head toward the Mauricie, and finally reach the Bas-Saint-Laurent region. This drive typically takes 10 to 11 hours. The route involves navigating through diverse landscapes, from dense forests to the coastal scenery of the St. Lawrence River. It is a long-distance trip that requires careful planning for fuel and rest stops.

Total Distance: 900 km driving distance; 650 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via the main highway network is the fastest, taking 10.5 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving your own vehicle is the most cost-effective way to reach Rivière-du-Loup.

Compare Notre-Dame-du-Nord to Rivière-du-Loup Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

10 hours 30 mins

Avg Price

140-190 CAD in fuel

Operator

Personal Vehicle

Route

Route 117 to Highway 40, then Highway 20 East.

Plan an overnight stay in Quebec City to break the journey.

Travel Tips

Overnight Stop
Consider staying in Quebec City to avoid driving the entire distance in one day.
Traffic
Avoid peak hours when crossing the bridges into the Quebec City area.
Fuel
Fill up in major towns along the way to avoid higher prices in remote areas.
Weather
Check road conditions on the Quebec 511 website, especially in winter.
Navigation
Use a reliable GPS, as some areas have limited cellular coverage.

Safety Tips

Speeding
Watch for speed cameras in construction zones.
Fatigue
Take regular breaks to stay alert on the long highway stretches.
Visibility
Use your headlights at all times, especially in the wildlife reserve.
Emergency
Keep a basic emergency kit in your trunk.