How Long Does It Take to Road Trip From Toronto to Calgary?

By Michael Ferguson

Road trips are a great way to explore the beauty of Canada. If you’re planning a road trip from Toronto to Calgary, it’s important to know how long it’ll take you to get there. The distance between the two cities is approximately 3,500 km (2,175 miles), which means you’ll have to plan accordingly.

Factors Affecting Travel Time

Before we dive into the estimated travel time, it’s important to consider some factors that can affect your journey. These include:

  • The route you take
  • The number of stops you make
  • The speed at which you drive
  • The weather conditions

Estimated Travel Time

Assuming an average speed of 100 km/h (62 mph) and minimal stops, it would take approximately 35 hours of driving time to get from Toronto to Calgary. However, this doesn’t include rest breaks or overnight stays.

If you’re planning on making stops along the way or taking a more scenic route, it’s important to factor in additional time. For instance, if you decide to take the Trans-Canada Highway instead of the more direct route on Highway 1, your journey will be longer but more picturesque.

Trans-Canada Highway Route

If you choose to take the Trans-Canada Highway route from Toronto to Calgary, your travel time will be longer since this route is approximately 4,800 km (2,980 miles). You’ll also have more opportunities for sightseeing and exploring different cities along the way. Here are some of the recommended stops along this route:

  • Ottawa – Canada’s capital city and home of Parliament Hill.
  • Winnipeg – Known for its rich history and cultural diversity.
  • Regina – The capital city of Saskatchewan and home to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
  • Banff National Park – One of the most popular tourist destinations in Canada, known for its stunning scenery and wildlife.

Highway 1 Route

If you choose to take the more direct route on Highway 1, your travel time will be shorter but less scenic. However, you’ll still have some great opportunities for sightseeing along the way. Here are some of the recommended stops along this route:

  • Winnipeg – As mentioned earlier, Winnipeg is a great stopover on your journey and worth exploring.
  • Saskatoon – Known for its vibrant arts and cultural scene.
  • Banff National Park – Even if you take the more direct route, Banff is a must-visit destination!

Conclusion

In conclusion, the estimated travel time from Toronto to Calgary is approximately 35 hours of driving time. However, this can vary depending on your route, stops, and driving speed.

Whether you decide to take the Trans-Canada Highway or Highway 1, both routes offer their own unique experiences and sights. So pack up your car and hit the open road for an adventure you’ll never forget!