Peterborough
Peterborough
Yellowknife
Yellowknife
Flight Driving

Peterborough to Yellowknife

Updated: 30 May 2026

Yellowknife is the capital of the Northwest Territories, located over 4,500 kilometers from Peterborough. The most practical way to travel is by flying from Toronto Pearson to Yellowknife Airport (YZF). Driving is a massive undertaking through the Canadian Shield and requires significant preparation for remote road conditions.

Total Distance: Driving distance 4,500 km, straight-line air distance 2,800 km.
Fastest Way
Flying from Toronto Pearson to Yellowknife takes about 7 hours.
Cheapest Way
Flying is generally more cost-effective than the long drive.
Compare Peterborough to Yellowknife Routes
Flight
Connecting
Driving
Direct
Duration 7 hours 50 hours
Avg Price $600 - $1,100 $1,200 - $2,000
Operator Air Canada N/A
Route YYZ to YZF. Trans-Canada Hwy to Hwy 3.
Tip Flights connect through Edmonton or Calgary. This is a remote drive requiring extra fuel and supplies.
Travel Tips
  • Booking
    Book flights well in advance for the best rates.
  • Packing
    Bring extreme cold weather gear if visiting in winter.
  • Navigation
    Download offline maps for the drive.
  • Vehicle
    Ensure your vehicle is equipped for northern roads.
  • Currency
    Carry cash for remote areas.
Safety Tips
  • Wildlife
    Be aware of wildlife on the roads.
  • Weather
    Check weather forecasts before traveling.
  • Emergency
    Carry a satellite phone if driving.
  • Communication
    Expect limited cell service on the highway.
People Also Ask
  • Is there a train?
    No, passenger rail service does not reach Yellowknife.
  • Is the drive safe?
    Yes, but it requires extensive preparation.
  • What is the best time to visit?
    Late summer for the Aurora.
  • Are there car rentals?
    Yes, available at the airport.
  • Do I need a passport?
    No, this is a domestic route.
Quick Info
  • From Peterborough, Ontario, Canada
  • To Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

August to September for the Aurora Borealis.

Things to Do in Yellowknife
1
Aurora Village
Experience the best Aurora Borealis viewing in the world.
2
Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre
Learn about the history and culture of the NWT.
3
Great Slave Lake
Enjoy boating or fishing on one of the deepest lakes in North America.
4
Old Town
Explore the historic district with its unique architecture.
Tags
Peterborough to Yellowknife flights to Yellowknife driving to NWT Canada north travel travel guide Yellowknife Yellowknife transport best way to Yellowknife Northern Canada travel