Is there a train to Red Lake?

No, there is no passenger rail service to Red Lake.

What is the best route to Red Lake?

The standard route is Highway 17 to Vermilion Bay, then Highway 105 North.

Are there rental cars in Terrace Bay?

Rental car availability is extremely limited; it is best to rent in Thunder Bay.

How long is the drive from Terrace Bay?

The drive takes approximately 10.5 hours of pure driving time.

It is a paved highway but can be narrow and winding; drive with caution.

Terrace Bay

Red Lake

Flight Driving

Terrace Bay to Red Lake

Updated: 29 May 2026

The journey from Terrace Bay to Red Lake spans approximately 850 kilometers through the rugged landscape of Northern Ontario. You will primarily travel west on Highway 17 before turning north onto Highway 105 at Vermilion Bay. This route takes you through the heart of the Boreal forest, passing through towns like Marathon and Dryden. Driving is the most common method, though regional flights are available from Thunder Bay. Expect a long drive with limited service stations between major hubs.

Total Distance: Driving distance is 850 km; straight-line air distance is 420 km.

Fastest Way

Driving is the fastest practical method, taking approximately 10.5 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the cheapest option, costing roughly 150-200 CAD in fuel depending on vehicle efficiency.

Compare Terrace Bay to Red Lake Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	4 hours (including layover)	10 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	400-700 CAD	150-200 CAD in fuel
Operator	Bearskin Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	Terrace Bay to Thunder Bay (drive), then flight to Red Lake Airport.	Highway 17 West to Vermilion Bay, then Highway 105 North.
Tip	Book flights well in advance as regional capacity is limited.	Ensure your fuel tank is full before leaving Dryden as gas stations are sparse on Highway 105.

Travel Tips

Check Road Conditions
Use the Ontario 511 website to check for highway closures before departing.
Emergency Kit
Carry a winter survival kit including blankets, food, and water, even in summer.
Cell Service
Expect significant dead zones on Highway 105; download offline maps.
Wildlife Awareness
Watch for moose and deer on the road, especially during dawn and dusk.
Fuel Strategy
Fill up in Dryden; it is the last major service center before the final stretch to Red Lake.

Safety Tips

Winter Driving
Avoid driving during heavy snowstorms as Highway 105 is prone to drifting.
Vehicle Maintenance
Check your tire pressure and fluid levels before starting this long-distance drive.
Communication
Carry a satellite messenger if you plan to travel during the shoulder seasons.
Fatigue Management
Take breaks every two hours to stay alert on the long, monotonous stretches of highway.