Is it far from Niagara Falls?

No, it is only about 20 minutes away.

Can I take the train?

Yes, GO Transit offers service to St. Catharines.

What is the best way to travel?

Driving is the most convenient and fastest.

Is St. Catharines safe?

Yes, it is a safe and welcoming city.

Scarborough

St. Catharines

Train Driving

Scarborough to St. Catharines

Updated: 28 May 2026

The route from Scarborough to St. Catharines covers about 120 kilometers. Driving via Highway 401 West and the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW) is the most direct path, taking roughly 1.5 hours. You can also take the GO Train from Scarborough to Union Station and transfer to the Niagara line. St. Catharines is known as the 'Garden City' and serves as the gateway to the Niagara wine region. This journey takes you across the Burlington Skyway, offering great views of Lake Ontario.

Total Distance: 120 km driving distance; 105 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving is the fastest, taking about 90 minutes without traffic.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most cost-effective for groups, while GO Transit is affordable for solo travelers.

Compare Scarborough to St. Catharines Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	2 hours 30 mins	1 hour 30 mins
Avg Price	$25 - $40 CAD	$20 - $30 CAD in fuel
Operator	GO Transit	Personal Vehicle
Route	Lakeshore East to Union, then Niagara line to St. Catharines.	Highway 401 West to QEW Niagara.
Tip	Check the GO Transit schedule as Niagara line service is limited on weekdays.	The QEW can be very congested near Hamilton; check traffic before leaving.

Travel Tips

Traffic
The QEW is busy; avoid peak hours if possible.
Parking
Downtown St. Catharines has several public parking garages.
Booking
Book train tickets in advance if traveling during peak summer weekends.
Navigation
Use a GPS to navigate the QEW exits, as they can be confusing.
Local Info
Check the city's website for local events and festival dates.

Safety Tips

Highway Safety
Be alert for sudden stops on the QEW near the Burlington Skyway.
Emergency
Keep a charged phone and emergency contact numbers handy.
Weather
Check for fog warnings near the lake, which can reduce visibility.
Assistance
If you have car trouble, pull over to the shoulder and call for help.