Road Trip: Carleton Place to Thorold

Ready for a fun-filled road trip from Carleton Place to Thorold? Whether you’re exploring Niagara Falls or heading to a friend’s BBQ, we’ve got you covered on how to get there and what places to stop along the way.

Route Options

There are two main routes to take when driving from Carleton Place to Thorold: Highway 401 or Highway 7/8 & 403. Here are the distance and time differences between the two routes.

Highway 401

The most direct route to take is Highway 401. This route covers roughly 450 km and takes around 5 hours to drive. Although it may be quicker, there are fewer towns or cities along the way to stop and explore.

Highway 7/8 & 403

While this route is slightly longer and covers 530 km, driving along the scenic Highway 7 and passing by Waterloo and Toronto will make your trip more rewarding. Going this route takes roughly 6 hours but the journey is totally worth it.

Places to Stop Along the Way

So, you’ve chosen your route, but what to do along the way? Here are our top picks:

Kingston

If you’re taking the Highway 401 route, we recommend stopping in Kingston to explore its rich history and local attractions. Check out Kingston’s waterfront or visit the Kingston Penitentiary, now converted into a museum.

Waterloo

For those taking the Highway 7/8 & 403 route, you can’t miss the opportunity to stop in Waterloo and see the University of Waterloo or the Willis Way Flower Field. This university town will not disappoint!

Toronto

If you’ve got time for a longer stop, Toronto is an excellent choice on either route. You can visit the CN Tower, the Royal Ontario Museum, or the Toronto Islands.

Conclusion

Whichever route you choose, Carleton Place to Thorold is well worth the drive. With numerous stops along the way and a variety of routes, the journey is just as enjoyable as the destination. Whether you’re off to see Niagara Falls or visit family, take your time and enjoy all the amazing scenery.