Is there a train to Peterborough?

No, there is no direct passenger rail service to Peterborough.

How long does it take to drive?

It takes about 4 hours under normal conditions.

Are there tolls on this route?

Only if you choose to use the 407 ETR to bypass Toronto.

What is the best time to leave?

Early morning or late evening to avoid peak traffic.

Is it a difficult drive?

It is a straightforward highway drive with minimal technical difficulty.

Sarnia

Peterborough

Driving

Sarnia to Peterborough

Updated: 26 May 2026

Traveling from Sarnia to Peterborough involves a journey of approximately 350 kilometers through the heart of Southern Ontario. The most efficient route is via Highway 401 East, transitioning to Highway 115 North near Clarington. This drive typically takes around four hours, depending on traffic levels near the Greater Toronto Area. Peterborough is known as the gateway to the Kawarthas, offering a distinct change from the industrial landscape of Sarnia. Public transit options are limited, making personal vehicle travel the most practical choice for this route.

Total Distance: 350 km driving distance; 310 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via Highway 401 and 115 is the fastest route, taking approximately 4 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving your own vehicle is the most cost-effective way to reach Peterborough from Sarnia.

Compare Sarnia to Peterborough Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

4 hours

Avg Price

$50-$70 in fuel

Operator

Personal Vehicle

Route

Highway 402 to 401 East, then Highway 115 North.

Highway 115 is generally less congested than the 401.

Travel Tips

Route Planning
Use Highway 407 if you want to bypass Toronto traffic, though it is a toll road.
Fueling Up
Fill your tank in Sarnia or London to avoid higher prices near the GTA.
Parking
Downtown Peterborough offers several municipal parking lots with reasonable daily rates.
Navigation
Download offline maps as cell service can be spotty in rural areas north of the 401.
Timing
Avoid traveling on Friday afternoons to escape the cottage country traffic.

Safety Tips

Wildlife
Be cautious of deer on the roads, especially during dawn and dusk.
Construction
Check for road work on Highway 115 before you leave.
Visibility
Ensure your headlights are clean for night driving on rural stretches.
Emergency
Keep a charged power bank for your phone in case of vehicle breakdown.