Is there a train to Saint John?

No, passenger rail service to Saint John was discontinued years ago.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes approximately 15 to 16 hours of pure driving time.

What is the best airport?

Saint John Airport (YSJ) is the closest and most convenient arrival point.

There are no major highway tolls on the primary route, but some bridges may charge.

Is it safe to drive in winter?

Winter driving requires snow tires and caution due to heavy snowfall in the Maritimes.

Scarborough

Saint John

Flight Driving

Scarborough to Saint John

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Scarborough to Saint John spans approximately 1,450 kilometers across Ontario, Quebec, and New Brunswick. Most travelers prefer driving via Highway 401 East and Highway 20 through Quebec, or taking a flight from Toronto Pearson International Airport. The drive typically takes 15 to 16 hours depending on traffic near Montreal. Flying is significantly faster, with direct flights arriving at Saint John Airport in under 2 hours of air time. This route crosses the scenic St. Lawrence River valley and the Appalachian foothills.

Total Distance: 1,450 km driving distance; 1,150 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from Toronto Pearson (YYZ) to Saint John (YSJ) is the fastest, taking roughly 3 hours total.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the cheapest option for groups of two or more people sharing fuel costs.

Compare Scarborough to Saint John Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	3 hours 15 mins	15 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	$300 - $600 CAD	$250 - $350 CAD in fuel
Operator	Air Canada	Personal Vehicle
Route	YYZ to YSJ via Montreal or Toronto hub.	Highway 401 East to Highway 20, then Highway 85 and Highway 2 in New Brunswick.
Tip	Book at least three weeks in advance to secure lower fare classes.	Avoid driving through Montreal during morning or afternoon rush hours to save time.

Travel Tips

Toll Roads
Be aware that some routes in Quebec may involve bridge tolls; keep a credit card handy.
Time Zones
Remember that New Brunswick is in the Atlantic Time Zone, one hour ahead of Ontario.
Road Conditions
Check 511 New Brunswick for real-time updates on highway construction and weather closures.
Fuel Stops
Fill up in Quebec before crossing into New Brunswick, as gas prices can fluctuate significantly.
Packing
Bring layers, as coastal weather in Saint John can change rapidly regardless of the season.

Safety Tips

Wildlife
Watch for moose on highways in New Brunswick, especially during dawn and dusk.
Fatigue
Take breaks every three hours if driving solo to maintain alertness on long stretches.
Emergency Kit
Carry a basic roadside emergency kit including jumper cables and a flashlight.
Cell Service
Download offline maps as cell service can be spotty in remote sections of the Trans-Canada Highway.