Is there a train to Thunder Bay?

No, there is no passenger rail service connecting Pickering to Thunder Bay.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes approximately 16 hours of pure driving time, usually split over two days.

Are there buses available?

Intercity bus service is limited and often requires multiple transfers, making it impractical.

What is the best airport?

Thunder Bay International Airport (YQT) is the only major airport serving the city.

Yes, the stretch along Lake Superior on Highway 17 is considered one of the most beautiful drives in Canada.

Pickering

Thunder Bay

Flight Driving

Pickering to Thunder Bay

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Pickering to Thunder Bay spans approximately 1,400 kilometers across the rugged landscape of Northern Ontario. Most travelers prefer a flight from Toronto Pearson International Airport to Thunder Bay International Airport to save time. Driving requires navigating the Trans-Canada Highway, specifically Highway 17, which winds around the northern shore of Lake Superior. This route is famous for its dramatic cliffs and dense boreal forests. Expect a multi-day drive if you choose to travel by road to account for fatigue and scenic stops. The trip connects the Greater Toronto Area to the heart of Northwestern Ontario.

Total Distance: 1,400 km driving distance; 950 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flight from Toronto Pearson (YYZ) to Thunder Bay (YQT) takes just over two hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving is generally cheaper for groups of three or more people sharing fuel costs.

Compare Pickering to Thunder Bay Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	2 hours 15 mins	16 hours
Avg Price	$350 - $600 CAD	$250 - $400 CAD in fuel
Operator	Porter Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	YYZ to YQT	Highway 400 North to Highway 69, then Highway 17 West.
Tip	Book at least three weeks in advance to secure lower fares.	Ensure your vehicle is winter-ready if traveling outside summer months.

Travel Tips

Fuel Stops
Fill up your tank in larger towns like Sault Ste. Marie, as gas stations are sparse in remote stretches.
Cell Service
Expect intermittent cellular coverage along the northern shore of Lake Superior.
Wildlife Awareness
Be extremely cautious of moose and deer on the road, especially during dawn and dusk.
Weather Checks
Check the Ontario 511 website for real-time road closures and construction updates.
Packing
Bring layers, as temperatures can drop significantly even in the summer months.

Safety Tips

Emergency Kit
Carry a winter emergency kit including blankets, non-perishable food, and a shovel.
Tire Safety
Use winter tires from October to April to handle unpredictable snow and ice.
Driver Fatigue
Plan for overnight stops in Sault Ste. Marie or Wawa to avoid driving while exhausted.
Communication
Download offline maps as GPS signals can be unreliable in deep wilderness areas.