How Long Would a Cross Canada Road Trip Take?

By Michael Ferguson

Are you planning a cross-Canada road trip and wondering how much time you should set aside for it? The answer is not straightforward, as the duration of your journey depends on various factors.

In this article, we’ll explore some of these factors to give you an estimate of how long a cross-Canada road trip would take.

Distance and Route

The first factor that determines the duration of your cross-Canada road trip is the distance and route you plan to take. Canada is the second-largest country in the world, so driving from one end to the other can take a while.

The shortest distance between Victoria, British Columbia, and St. John’s, Newfoundland, is approximately 7,800 kilometers (4,847 miles), but this distance can vary depending on the route you choose. If you stick to the Trans-Canada Highway, which stretches for 7,821 kilometers (4,860 miles) from Victoria to St. John’s, you’ll have a more straightforward route to follow.

Driving Speed

Another factor that affects the duration of your road trip is your driving speed. The Trans-Canada Highway has speed limits ranging from 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas to 110 km/h (68 mph) in rural areas.

However, keep in mind that these are maximum limits and may not always be safe or practical to follow. You may also encounter construction zones or traffic congestion that slows down your journey.

Number of Stops

The number of stops you make along the way can also affect how long your cross-Canada road trip takes. Canada has many beautiful natural attractions that are worth exploring, such as Banff National Park or Niagara Falls.

However, stopping at every attraction will add time to your journey. Plan ahead and prioritize which places you want to visit to avoid spending too much time on the road.

Driving Hours Per Day

How many hours per day you spend driving will also impact your journey’s duration. Some people prefer to drive long hours each day to reach their destination quickly, while others prefer a more leisurely pace.

Keep in mind that driving for extended periods can be tiring and may not be safe. It’s essential to take breaks every few hours to rest and recharge.

Conclusion

So, how long would a cross-Canada road trip take? It depends on the factors we’ve discussed.

If you plan to stick to the Trans-Canada Highway, drive at a safe speed, make a few stops along the way, and don’t push yourself too hard, you can expect your journey to take around two weeks. However, if you want to explore more of Canada’s natural beauty and cultural attractions or take a more leisurely pace, your journey could take three weeks or longer.

In Summary:

  • The distance and route you plan to take determine the duration of your cross-Canada road trip.
  • Your driving speed affects how long your journey takes.
  • The number of stops you make can add time to your road trip.
  • How many hours per day you spend driving impacts your journey’s duration.
  • A cross-Canada road trip can take around two weeks if you follow a straightforward route without pushing yourself too hard.

So pack your bags, plan your route, and get ready for an epic adventure across Canada!