Is there a train to Chatham?

Yes, VIA Rail operates service to Chatham Station from Toronto.

How long is the drive?

The drive is approximately 17 hours of pure transit time.

Highway 407 is a toll road near Toronto, but Highway 401 is free.

What is the best route?

Highway 17 to Highway 69 to Highway 400 to Highway 401.

No, there are no direct flights from Thunder Bay to Chatham.

Oliver Paipoonge

Chatham

Flight Driving

Oliver Paipoonge to Chatham

Updated: 30 May 2026

The journey from Oliver Paipoonge to Chatham covers approximately 1,450 kilometers across Ontario. You will primarily travel via the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 17) before connecting to Highway 401 near Toronto. This route takes you through the rugged Canadian Shield and into the agricultural heartland of Southwestern Ontario. Expect a driving time of roughly 16 to 18 hours depending on traffic near the Greater Toronto Area. Air travel is possible by flying from Thunder Bay International Airport to Windsor or London, followed by a short drive.

Total Distance: 1,450 km driving distance; 1,100 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from Thunder Bay to Windsor is the fastest, taking roughly 6 hours total including transfers.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most cost-effective method for groups or those carrying significant luggage.

Compare Oliver Paipoonge to Chatham Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	6 hours	17 hours
Avg Price	$450-$700	$250-$400 in fuel
Operator	Air Canada	Personal Vehicle
Route	Thunder Bay (YQT) to Windsor (YQG)	Highway 17 East to Highway 401 West
Tip	Book your flight to Windsor and rent a car for the 1-hour drive to Chatham.	Check road conditions on Ontario 511 before departing, especially during winter months.

Travel Tips

Fuel Stops
Fill up in Sault Ste. Marie as gas stations are sparse between Wawa and White River.
Traffic Avoidance
Try to pass through Toronto on Highway 401 outside of 7 AM to 9 AM and 3 PM to 6 PM.
Rest Areas
Utilize the Ontario Ministry of Transportation service centres along Highway 401.
Winter Driving
Carry winter emergency supplies including blankets and a shovel if traveling between November and April.
Accommodation
Book hotels in advance if stopping overnight in Sault Ste. Marie or Sudbury.

Safety Tips

Wildlife
Watch for moose and deer on Highway 17, especially during dawn and dusk.
Cell Service
Expect dead zones in Northern Ontario; download offline maps before leaving.
Fatigue
Switch drivers every 4 hours to maintain alertness on long stretches.
Weather Alerts
Monitor Environment Canada weather reports for sudden snow squalls near Lake Superior.