Is there a train to Thunder Bay?

No, passenger rail service to Thunder Bay was discontinued decades ago.

How long is the ferry?

The crossing from Port aux Basques to North Sydney takes approximately 7 hours.

Can I drive from NL to Ontario?

Yes, but it requires a ferry crossing to reach the mainland.

What is the best route?

The Trans-Canada Highway is the primary and most reliable route.

There are no tolls on the Trans-Canada Highway, but ferry fees apply.

Trinity East

Thunder Bay

Flight Driving

Trinity East to Thunder Bay

Updated: 31 May 2026

This cross-country journey spans over 3,500 kilometers from the Atlantic coast to Lake Superior. You must first drive to Argentia or Port aux Basques to board the Marine Atlantic ferry to North Sydney. From Nova Scotia, you traverse the Trans-Canada Highway through New Brunswick, Quebec, and Ontario. The route involves significant ferry transit times and long-haul driving across the Canadian Shield. Expect varied terrain from coastal cliffs to the dense boreal forests of Northern Ontario.

Total Distance: 3,500 km driving distance; 2,300 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flight from Gander to Thunder Bay takes approximately 12 hours including layovers.

Cheapest Way

Driving is cheapest for groups, costing roughly $800 in fuel and ferry fees.

Compare Trinity East to Thunder Bay Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Connecting
Duration	12 hours	48 hours
Avg Price	$700 - $1,100 CAD	$800 - $1,200 CAD
Operator	Air Canada	Marine Atlantic
Route	Gander International Airport to Thunder Bay International Airport.	Route 239 to TCH 1, Ferry to North Sydney, TCH 104/20/401/17.
Tip	Expect layovers in Toronto Pearson or Montreal Trudeau.	Book your Marine Atlantic ferry reservation at least three months in advance.

Travel Tips

Ferry Booking
Always book your Marine Atlantic ferry crossing well ahead of your departure date.
Fuel Stops
Fill up in major towns in Northern Ontario as gas stations can be sparse on Highway 17.
Time Zones
Be prepared to adjust your watch as you cross from Newfoundland time to Eastern and Central time.
Roadside Assistance
Ensure your vehicle is serviced before the trip as remote stretches have limited cell service.
Packing
Bring layers, as temperatures fluctuate significantly between the coast and the interior.

Safety Tips

Wildlife
Watch for moose on the highway, especially during dawn and dusk hours.
Weather
Check Ontario 511 for road closures due to winter storms or forest fire smoke.
Fatigue
Take mandatory breaks every four hours to avoid driver fatigue on long stretches.
Emergency Kit
Carry a fully stocked emergency kit including blankets, water, and non-perishable food.