Flight
Driving
St Andrews West to Thunder Bay
Updated: 28 May 2026
The journey from St Andrews West to Thunder Bay spans approximately 1500 kilometers across the rugged Canadian Shield. Driving requires taking Highway 417 to Ottawa, then connecting to Highway 17, the Trans-Canada Highway. This route takes roughly 16 hours of pure driving time through North Bay and Sault Ste. Marie. Alternatively, you can drive to Ottawa International Airport and fly directly to Thunder Bay International Airport. The drive offers stunning views of Lake Superior, particularly along the stretch between Wawa and Marathon.
Total Distance: 1500 km driving, 1150 km air distance.
Fastest Way
Flight from Ottawa takes 4 hours including layover.
Cheapest Way
Driving is the cheapest for groups of two or more.
Compare St Andrews West to Thunder Bay Routes
|
Connecting
|
Direct
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 4 hours | 16 hours |
| Avg Price | 400 to 800 dollars | 250 to 350 dollars in fuel |
| Operator | Air Canada | Personal Vehicle |
| Route | YOW to YQT via YYZ | Highway 417 to Highway 17 |
| Tip | Book at least three weeks in advance for lower fares. | Check road conditions on 511 Ontario before departing. |
Travel Tips
-
Fuel StopsFill up in larger towns like North Bay and Sault Ste. Marie as gas stations are sparse in the northern stretches.
-
Wildlife AwarenessBe extremely cautious of moose and deer on the road, especially during dawn and dusk.
-
Cell ServiceExpect dead zones between Wawa and White River; download offline maps.
-
Weather PrepCarry an emergency kit with blankets and non-perishable food regardless of the season.
-
Rest StopsUtilize the Ontario Ministry of Transportation rest areas marked with blue signs.
Safety Tips
-
Winter DrivingWinter tires are mandatory for this route from October to April.
-
Fatigue ManagementPlan for overnight stops in Sault Ste. Marie to avoid driver fatigue.
-
Emergency KitEnsure your vehicle has a spare tire, jack, and jumper cables.
-
CommunicationCarry a satellite messenger if traveling solo in remote areas.
People Also Ask
-
Is there a train to Thunder Bay?No, there is no passenger rail service to Thunder Bay.
-
How long is the drive?The drive takes approximately 16 hours of active driving time.
-
Are there tolls?No, there are no tolls on this route.
-
What is the best highway?Highway 17 is the primary and only major route.
-
Can I take a bus?Intercity bus service is limited and often requires multiple transfers.
Quick Info
- From St Andrews West, Ontario, Canada
- To Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada
-
Modes
Best Time to Travel
September for fall foliage or July for warm weather.
Things to Do in Thunder Bay
1
Kakabeka Falls
Visit the second highest waterfall in Ontario located just outside Thunder Bay. It features accessible boardwalks and viewing platforms.
2
Sleeping Giant Provincial Park
Hike the trails to see the iconic rock formation resembling a giant lying on its back. It offers some of the best vistas in the province.
3
Terry Fox Memorial
Pay respects at the monument dedicated to the Canadian hero. It provides a panoramic view of the city and Lake Superior.
4
Fort William Historical Park
Experience a living history museum depicting the fur trade era. It is one of the largest reconstructed historical sites in North America.
Tags
St Andrews West to Thunder Bay
driving Ontario Highway 17
flights to Thunder Bay
traveling Northern Ontario
best route to Thunder Bay
distance St Andrews West to Thunder Bay
Ontario road trip guide
Thunder Bay travel tips
