How Long Does It Take To Drive From Old Ottawa, Ontario to Calgary, Alberta?

Have you ever wondered how long it takes to drive from Old Ottawa, Ontario to Calgary, Alberta? Depending on which route you take and the traffic conditions, the driving time can vary quite a bit. In this blog post, we will break down the various routes and their corresponding drive times, so you can plan your journey accordingly.

The Fastest Route

The fastest route from Old Ottawa to Calgary is via the Trans-Canada Highway, which covers a distance of approximately 3,300 kilometers. This route takes you through Toronto, Winnipeg, and Regina before reaching Calgary. If you want to complete this drive in the shortest amount of time possible, you should allocate at least 35 hours of driving time, assuming an average speed of 95 km/h.

At peak traffic times, this drive can take significantly longer, with delays due to construction, road closures, and other factors. On average, you can expect it to take up to 45 hours to complete this route during peak travel times.

The Scenic Route

If you want to take a more scenic route from Old Ottawa to Calgary, consider traveling via the Yellowhead Highway. This route covers a distance of 3,600 kilometers, taking you through scenic vistas such as Lake Superior, the Rockies, and Jasper National Park.

While this route is more visually stunning, it can also add a few hours to your total drive time. On average, you should expect this route to take about 38 hours to complete, assuming an average speed of 95 km/h. However, this drive can take up to 50 hours during the peak travel season.

The Southern Route

Another route you may consider is the route that takes you via the US. This route takes you through cities such as Buffalo, Detroit, and Chicago before you get to Badlands National Park on your way to Calgary. The total distance for this route is approximately 4,100 kilometers, and the drive time can take up to 42 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

This route can be a popular alternative for people who want to avoid the heavy traffic on the Canadian Trans-Canada Highway. However, you should note that this option requires you to cross the US-Canada border, which can be time-consuming during busy periods.

Conclusion

As you can see, the drive from Old Ottawa to Calgary can vary in time, depending on the route you take and the traffic conditions. If you want to arrive as quickly as possible, the Trans-Canada Highway is the fastest option, while the Yellowhead Highway offers the most scenic views. You may also consider the US route if you want to avoid Canadian traffic or if you like cross-border drives. Whatever route you choose, make sure to factor in potential delays, and plan ahead accordingly.