Is Barrie a good place to visit?

Yes, it is a city on the shores of Lake Simcoe.

How far is Toronto from Barrie?

It is about a 1-hour drive or a 1.5-hour train ride from Toronto to Barrie.

Are there rental cars in Barrie?

Yes, rental agencies are available in town.

What is the best time to visit Barrie?

Summer months offer the best weather for outdoor activities.

Is there a train to Barrie?

Yes, GO Transit operates the train service from Toronto to Barrie.

Barrie

Train Flight

Shawnigan Lake to Barrie

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Shawnigan Lake to Barrie is a massive cross-country trip of over 4,300 km. The most practical way to travel is by flying from Victoria International Airport (YYJ) to Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) and then taking a shuttle or bus to Barrie. Alternatively, you can take a train from Vancouver to Toronto and then a bus to Barrie.

Total Distance: Driving distance is 4,300 km; straight-line air distance is 3,200 km.

Fastest Way

Flying from Victoria (YYJ) to Toronto (YYZ) takes 9 hours with connections.

Cheapest Way

Flying is generally the most cost-effective and fastest way.

Compare Shawnigan Lake to Barrie Routes

	Train Connecting	Flight Connecting
Duration	80 hours	9 hours
Avg Price	$1,200 - $2,200 CAD	$600 - $1,200 CAD
Operator	VIA Rail	Air Canada
Route	Vancouver to Toronto, then bus to Barrie.	YYJ to YVR, then YVR to YYZ, then shuttle to Barrie.
Tip	The train journey is a scenic experience but very long.	Flights are the most efficient way to reach the Toronto area.

Travel Tips

Flight Booking
Book your flights in advance to get the best prices.
Weather Prep
Barrie weather can be extreme; pack appropriate clothing for the season.
Accommodation
Book your stay in Barrie in advance, especially during peak summer.
Transportation
Consider renting a car to explore the surrounding area.
Time Zones
Barrie is in the Eastern Time Zone, three hours ahead of Shawnigan Lake.

Safety Tips

Winter Safety
If traveling in winter, be prepared for extreme cold and snow.
Emergency Kit
Carry a basic emergency kit if you are driving or traveling long distances.
Communication
Ensure you have a reliable way to communicate while traveling.
Health Precautions
Stay hydrated and take breaks during long travel days.