Sault Ste. Marie
Sault Ste. Marie
Barrie
Barrie
Bus Driving

Sault Ste. Marie to Barrie

Updated: 26 May 2026

The route from Sault Ste. Marie to Barrie covers 600 kilometers. You will drive along Highway 17 and transition to Highway 400. The trip takes approximately 7 hours. Barrie is a growing city located on the shores of Lake Simcoe. It serves as a gateway to cottage country.

Total Distance: Driving distance is 600 km; straight-line air distance is 480 km.
Fastest Way
Driving is the fastest method.
Cheapest Way
Driving is the most cost-effective.
Compare Sault Ste. Marie to Barrie Routes
Bus
Connecting
Driving
Direct
Duration 8 hours 7 hours
Avg Price 130-200 CAD 80-110 CAD in fuel
Operator Ontario Northland Personal Vehicle
Route Regional bus network. Highway 17 to Highway 400.
Tip Check for transfers in Sudbury. Highway 400 can be busy on weekends.
Travel Tips
  • Traffic
    Avoid Highway 400 on Friday afternoons.
  • Parking
    Downtown parking is available in city lots.
  • Dining
    Check out the restaurants on Dunlop Street.
  • Booking
    Book bus tickets in advance.
  • Weather
    Barrie gets significant lake-effect snow.
Safety Tips
  • Driving
    Be prepared for heavy traffic on the 400.
  • Winter
    Use winter tires for snowy conditions.
  • Emergency
    Keep a roadside kit in your vehicle.
  • Visibility
    Use headlights during snowstorms.
People Also Ask
  • Is there a train?
    No, there is no passenger rail service.
  • How long is the drive?
    About 7 hours.
  • Are there buses?
    Yes, via Ontario Northland.
  • Is it a good place to visit?
    Yes, especially for lake activities.
  • What is the best route?
    Highway 400 is the main artery.
Quick Info
  • From Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada
  • To Barrie, Ontario, Canada
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

Summer for lake activities or Winter for nearby skiing.

Things to Do in Barrie
1
Kempenfelt Bay
Enjoy the waterfront park and beach. It is the heart of Barrie.
2
Sunnidale Park
Explore the trails and gardens. It is a great local park.
3
Barrie Farmers Market
Visit for local produce and crafts. It is held downtown.
4
Snow Valley Ski Resort
Go skiing or tubing in the winter. It is very close to the city.
Tags
Sault Ste. Marie to Barrie driving to Barrie Ontario travel distance Sault to Barrie traveling by car Barrie transport Highway 400 route bus to Barrie