Wilsons Beach
Wilsons Beach
Rimouski
Rimouski
Driving

Wilsons Beach to Rimouski

Updated: 28 May 2026

Traveling from Wilsons Beach to Rimouski requires a drive north through New Brunswick toward the Quebec border. You will navigate via Route 1 and Route 2, eventually connecting to the Trans-Canada Highway. The route takes you through the scenic Appalachian foothills. This is a long-distance drive best suited for personal vehicles as public transport is limited.

Total Distance: 650 km driving distance; 400 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving via the Trans-Canada Highway takes approximately 7.5 hours.
Cheapest Way
Driving is the most economical and practical option for this route.
Compare Wilsons Beach to Rimouski Routes
Driving
Direct
Duration
7 hours 30 mins
Avg Price
100-130 CAD
Operator
Personal Vehicle
Route
NB-774 to NB-1, then NB-2 toward Edmundston, crossing into Quebec via QC-185.

The QC-185 highway is currently undergoing upgrades; expect construction zones.

Travel Tips
  • Construction
    Check Quebec 511 for roadwork updates on Highway 185.
  • Rest Stops
    Edmundston is a great halfway point for food and fuel.
  • Language
    Expect French to be the primary language once you cross into Quebec.
  • Weather
    Coastal winds in Rimouski can be strong; pack a windbreaker.
  • Booking
    Book your ferry off Campobello Island in advance during peak season.
Safety Tips
  • Winter Driving
    Snow tires are mandatory in Quebec from December to March.
  • Fatigue
    Take breaks every two hours to avoid driver fatigue on long stretches.
  • Visibility
    Use headlights during the day on rural highways for better visibility.
  • Emergency
    Keep a physical map in your car in case of GPS failure.
People Also Ask
  • Is there a bus to Rimouski?
    Orléans Express provides bus service within Quebec, but not from Wilsons Beach.
  • Can I take a train?
    VIA Rail serves Rimouski, but you must reach a station like Moncton first.
  • Is the route scenic?
    Yes, the drive through the Matapédia Valley is very beautiful.
  • Are there hotels?
    Yes, there are many options in Edmundston and Rimouski.
  • Is it safe?
    Yes, the highways are well-maintained and safe for travel.
Quick Info
  • From Wilsons Beach, New Brunswick, Canada
  • To Rimouski, Quebec, Canada
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

June to August for pleasant weather along the St. Lawrence River.

Things to Do in Rimouski
1
Rimouski Regional Museum
Learn about the maritime history of the St. Lawrence River.
2
Saint-Barnabé Island
Take a boat tour to this island located just off the coast of Rimouski.
3
Canyon des Portes de l'Enfer
Experience the dramatic gorge and high suspension bridge near Rimouski.
4
Pointe-au-Père Maritime Site
Visit the historic lighthouse and the Onondaga submarine museum.
Tags
Wilsons Beach to Rimouski driving to Rimouski New Brunswick to Quebec road trip Rimouski travel guide best route to Rimouski Campobello Island transport NB-1 to QC-185 traveling to the St. Lawrence