Windsor to Sault Ste. Marie

Updated: 26 May 2026

Sault Ste. Marie is located 800 kilometers north of Windsor. The most direct route is via Highway 401 East to Highway 400 North to Highway 17 West, taking approximately nine hours. Sault Ste. Marie is known for its beautiful waterfront on the St. Marys River and its proximity to Lake Superior. The city is well-connected by public transit, including the Sault Ste. Marie Transit bus system. The drive is long and passes through many major Ontario cities.

Total Distance: 800 km driving distance; 650 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying is the fastest method, taking about 4 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most cost-effective for this trip.

Compare Windsor to Sault Ste. Marie Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	4 hours	9 hours
Avg Price	$300 - $600	$130 - $180 in fuel
Operator	Air Canada / Porter	Personal Vehicle
Route	Windsor to Toronto, then transfer to Sault Ste. Marie.	Highway 401 East to Highway 400 North to Highway 17 West.
Tip	Flying is the most practical way to travel this long distance.	Plan for multiple stops along the way.

Travel Tips

Traffic
The 400 near Toronto can be very busy; plan your trip outside of rush hour.
Parking
Public parking is available near the city center.
Events
Check the city website for local festivals and events.
Navigation
Use a GPS to navigate the long drive.
Stops
Plan for stops in cities like Toronto or Sudbury.

Safety Tips

Highway Safety
Stay alert on the 401 and 17, especially near construction zones.
Winter Driving
Ensure your vehicle is equipped for winter conditions.
Emergency
Keep a roadside kit in your car.
Fatigue
Take regular breaks to avoid driver fatigue.