Driving
Saint-Anicet to Sault Ste. Marie
Updated: 30 May 2026
Traveling from Saint-Anicet to Sault Ste. Marie is a significant cross-province journey of over 1,000 kilometers. You will traverse the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 17) for the majority of the trip. The route takes you through Ottawa, North Bay, and along the rugged northern shores of Lake Huron. Expect a total driving time of approximately 12 to 14 hours. This route is renowned for its stunning views of the Canadian Shield and the Great Lakes.
Total Distance: 1050 km driving distance; 820 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving is the fastest practical method, taking roughly 13 hours of active driving time.
Cheapest Way
Driving your own vehicle is the most economical option for this long-distance route.
Compare Saint-Anicet to Sault Ste. Marie Routes
Driving
Direct
Duration
13 hours
Avg Price
180-220 CAD in fuel
Operator
Personal Vehicle
Route
Highway 417 to 17 West.
Break the trip into two days by staying overnight in North Bay.
Travel Tips
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Overnight StopsConsider staying in North Bay or Sudbury to avoid driver fatigue.
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Road ConditionsCheck the Ontario 511 website for construction updates on Highway 17.
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SuppliesStock up on snacks and water, as services can be sparse between small towns.
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Time ZoneSault Ste. Marie is in the Eastern Time Zone, same as Saint-Anicet.
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Vehicle CheckPerform a full vehicle inspection before departing for this long haul.
Safety Tips
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Fatigue ManagementTake a 15-minute break every two hours to stay alert.
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Wildlife HazardsBe extra cautious at night due to high moose activity on northern highways.
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Cellular Dead ZonesDownload offline maps as cell service is unreliable in the Algoma District.
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Weather AlertsMonitor local weather reports, as lake-effect snow can occur unexpectedly.
People Also Ask
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Is there a bus?Bus services are extremely limited and often require multiple transfers.
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How long is the drive?It is approximately 13 hours of driving time.
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Are there hotels?Yes, there are many hotels in North Bay and Sudbury along the way.
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Is the road safe?Yes, Highway 17 is a major, well-maintained provincial highway.
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Can I take a train?There is no direct passenger train service from Saint-Anicet to Sault Ste. Marie.
Quick Info
- From Saint-Anicet, Quebec, Canada
- To Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
July and August for warm weather and accessible outdoor activities.
Things to Do in Sault Ste. Marie
1
Agawa Canyon Tour Train
Experience a spectacular rail excursion through the wilderness. It is a must-see attraction in Sault Ste. Marie.
2
Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre
Explore the history of bush flying in Canada. The museum features numerous vintage aircraft.
3
Sault Ste. Marie Canal
Walk the historic canal grounds. It offers great views of the St. Marys River and the locks.
4
Ermatinger Clergue National Historic Site
Visit the oldest stone building in Northwestern Ontario. It provides insight into the early fur trade era.
Tags
Saint-Anicet to Sault Ste. Marie
driving to Sault Ste. Marie
Ontario road trip
Highway 17 route
traveling to the Soo
Quebec to Sault Ste. Marie
long distance driving Canada
Northern Ontario travel
