How Long Does It Take To Drive from (Old) Ottawa to Calgary?

Are you planning a road trip from (Old) Ottawa to Calgary and wondering how much time you will need to cover the distance between the two cities? Fear not! In this post, we will break down the fastest and slowest routes, the distance of that route, the time it takes based on traffic patterns. So fasten your seat belts, and let's dive right in!

The Fastest Route

If you're looking to get the most direct route from (Old) Ottawa to Calgary, then your best bet is to take the Trans-Canada Highway (TCH). This route is approximately 3,400 km and takes around 38 hours to drive non-stop at an average speed of 90 km/h. You may need to stop for rest breaks and meals along the way to keep alert and refreshed.

However, keep in mind that this isn't accounting for traffic, which can slow you down quite a bit. During peak hours, especially around major cities like Toronto and Winnipeg, the traffic can slow you down substantially, and you may find yourself stuck in jams for hours. On the other hand, driving during off-peak hours can save you a considerable amount of time and effort. Keep that in mind while planning your trip.

The Slowest Route

If you have some time to kill and want to check out some beautiful scenery along the way, you could instead opt for the much longer Coastal Route, which takes you along the coast of British Columbia and all the way up to Alaska. This route is about 10,000 km long but will give you a chance to see some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world. This route will take you around 120 hours of non-stop driving time.

Other routes

If you don't want to take the TCH, there are several other routes hidden among the mountains and valleys of Canada that offer stunning views and a more leisurely ride. You could take the Yellowhead Highway, which will take you through Jasper and Banff National Parks or the Northern route via the Mackenzie Highway, which will take you through the Northwest Territories.

Planning Your Drive Time

To roughly estimate how long it will take to drive to Calgary from (Old) Ottawa, use a tool like Google Maps. The time required will vary depending on the chosen route, traffic patterns, and time of the year. Peak traffic hours will take longer to cover the same distance than during the off-peak hours.

In conclusion, it is roughly a 38-hour drive from (Old) Ottawa to Calgary through the TCH. But with traffic, it can take much longer, so keep that in mind when planning your trip. Regardless of the route or the time it takes, make sure to take frequent rest stops to remain alert and energized while on the road. Happy driving!