Is the drive to Val-d'Or safe?

Yes, it is safe if you take proper precautions and rest breaks.

How long does it take?

The drive takes approximately 13 hours of driving time.

Val-d'Or has an airport, but flights from Petit-Rocher are not practical.

What is the best route?

The route via Route 117 is the standard path to the Abitibi region.

Yes, there are many hotels in Val-d'Or and along the route.

Petit-Rocher

Val-d'Or

Driving

Petit-Rocher to Val-d'Or

Updated: 31 May 2026

The drive from Petit-Rocher to Val-d'Or is a significant 1,150-kilometer journey. You will travel through New Brunswick and across Quebec, reaching the mining city of Val-d'Or via Route 117. This trip takes approximately 13 hours of driving time. It is highly recommended to split this journey into two days to ensure safety. You will experience the transition from the coastal regions of the Maritimes to the boreal forests of Northern Quebec.

Total Distance: 1,150 km driving distance, 900 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving is the only practical way to reach Val-d'Or from Petit-Rocher.

Cheapest Way

Driving your own vehicle is the most cost-effective way to travel.

Compare Petit-Rocher to Val-d'Or Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

13 hours

Avg Price

240-340 CAD

Operator

Personal Vehicle

Route

Route 11 to Route 117.

Plan an overnight stop in a city like Montreal or Gatineau to break up the drive.

Travel Tips

Split the Drive
Do not attempt to drive the full distance in one day; plan an overnight stop.
Fuel Management
Keep your tank full, especially when driving through remote stretches of Northern Quebec.
Emergency Supplies
Carry a well-stocked emergency kit, including food, water, and blankets.
Road Conditions
Check Quebec 511 for road closures or construction before you depart.
Stay Alert
Take frequent breaks to avoid driver fatigue on long stretches of highway.

Safety Tips

Wildlife
Be extremely cautious of moose and deer, especially during dawn and dusk.
Weather
Be prepared for sudden weather changes, particularly in the northern regions.
Vehicle Check
Ensure your vehicle is in top condition before embarking on this long trip.
Communication
Ensure you have a reliable way to communicate in areas with limited cell service.