How long is the drive?

It takes about 16-18 hours, depending on traffic.

Is there a direct flight?

Yes, Air Canada and Porter Airlines operate direct flights.

How much is the flight cost?

It varies from $300 to $600 depending on the booking time.

It is a remote highway, but can be busy during peak travel times.

What is the best way to travel?

Flying is the fastest and most convenient option.

Scarborough

Thunder Bay

Flight Driving

Scarborough to Thunder Bay

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Scarborough to Thunder Bay covers approximately 1500 kilometers. The most direct route is via Highway 400 North and Highway 17 North, which takes about 16-18 hours depending on traffic. Flying from Toronto Pearson International Airport is a much faster alternative, taking about 2 hours. Thunder Bay is a major city in Northwestern Ontario, known for its stunning natural beauty and proximity to Lake Superior. Plan for a multi-day trip if you are driving.

Total Distance: 1500 km driving distance; 1000 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from Toronto Pearson, taking approximately 2 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving, if you have multiple passengers to share fuel costs.

Compare Scarborough to Thunder Bay Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	2 hours	16 hours
Avg Price	$300-$600	$200-$300 in fuel
Operator	Air Canada / Porter Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	Toronto Pearson (YYZ) to Thunder Bay (YQT).	Highway 400 North to Highway 17 North.
Tip	Book in advance to secure the lowest fares.	This is a long drive; plan for overnight stops.

Travel Tips

Flying
Book your flight well in advance to get the best prices.
Driving
Highway 17 is a long and remote road; ensure your vehicle is in good condition.
Parking
Thunder Bay has several parking garages, but they can be expensive.
Navigation
Use Google Maps for real-time traffic updates on the 17.
Planning
Check the weather forecast, as Thunder Bay can have significant snowfall in winter.

Safety Tips

Driving
Take regular breaks on the long drive to stay alert.
Public Transit
Thunder Bay Transit provides local bus service throughout the city.
Emergency
Keep a winter emergency kit in your car if traveling in the colder months.
Wildlife
Be aware of moose and deer on the road, especially at night.