Sault Ste. Marie

Sault Ste. Marie is one of the oldest cities in Ontario, situated on the picturesque banks of the St. Marys River in Canada, right on the border with the USA. When planning a trip, many tourists ask how to get to Sault Ste. Marie to see the famous locks and enjoy the nature of the Algoma region. You can reach this important transport hub in various ways: by using the local airport, arriving by car via the transcontinental highway, or choosing a convenient bus route.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach the region is by air. The city is served by its own airport, Sault Ste. Marie (YAM), located approximately 15–20 km from the central area. Direct flights regularly arrive here from major transport hubs, most often from Toronto. The flight time from the provincial capital is about one and a half hours.

For tourists arriving in Canada on international flights, the route usually involves one convenient transfer. The airport itself is distinguished by its compact size and calm atmosphere, allowing for quick baggage claim and the completion of necessary formalities. To get from the terminal to a hotel or main attractions, travelers can use taxi services, rent a car, or book a transfer. The journey to the city takes on average 20 minutes.

There is no direct railway connection to the city of Sault Ste. Marie, as there is no active passenger station for regular long-distance services here. Tourists preferring trains will have to plan a combined route: travel by rail to major transport hubs in Ontario, and cover the remaining part of the journey by intercity bus or rental car.

It is important to consider that the nearest neighbors will not help shorten the journey by rail either: even the American city of Sault Ste. Marie, located just 2 km away on the other bank of the river, is not served by passenger trains. The local railway network is used primarily for freight transport and special tourist excursions, so this mode of transport is not the primary option for arriving in the city.

Bus travel is a reliable and affordable way to get to the city, especially for those already travelling within Ontario. The main transport operator in this region is the Canadian company Ontario Northland, whose routes connect northern territories with major administrative centers.

The most popular route runs from Toronto through Sudbury. The trip from the provincial capital will take quite some time — on average from 10 to 12 hours; however, modern buses are typically equipped with Wi-Fi and comfortable seats, making the long journey comfortable. The road from Sudbury is significantly shorter and takes about 4–5 hours.

There is also a possibility to reach Sault Ste. Marie from the USA side. The city borders the American settlement of the same name in the state of Michigan, located on the opposite bank of the river. They are connected by the International Bridge, which carries car and bus traffic. When planning such a route, one should account for the time needed for border control.

Travelling by car to Sault Ste. Marie is an excellent opportunity to enjoy the rugged beauty of Northern Ontario's nature. The city is a key hub on the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 17), the region's main motorway. A trip from the east, from the city of Sudbury, will take approximately 3.5–4 hours (about 300 km) and will delight you with views of dense forests and rocky landscapes. The route from the west, from Thunder Bay, is considered one of the most picturesque in Canada: the road runs along the majestic Lake Superior, although it requires about 8 hours of travel.

Many tourists also enter the city from the USA via the state of Michigan, following the I-75 expressway. A key point of the route is the International Bridge connecting the American city of Sault Ste. Marie with its Canadian namesake. Crossing the border and driving over the bridge (a distance of about 6 km) usually takes 20–30 minutes taking customs formalities into account. The drive from Pellston will last around 1 hour 50 minutes, while the scenic route from Alpena along the Lake Huron coast will require slightly more than 3 hours.

The region's road infrastructure is at a high level, making car travel comfortable in the warm season. However, drivers should remember that in winter, weather conditions near the Great Lakes can change rapidly, so it is recommended to check road conditions and the weather forecast before setting off.

To ensure your journey to Sault Ste. Marie is as comfortable and hassle-free as possible, it is worth preparing for the region's specific features in advance. We have collected some useful recommendations for you to help plan the perfect trip to this picturesque corner of Northern Ontario.

1. Clothing and Essentials: The weather here is changeable due to the proximity of the Great Lakes. In winter, thermal wear, a warm windproof jacket, and non-slip footwear are mandatory, as snowfall can be very heavy. In summer, dress in layers: days can be hot, but evenings by the water are often cool, so a windbreaker or fleece jacket in your backpack will be useful.
2. Transport: To fully explore the surroundings, it is most convenient to rent a car, as many nature parks are located at a distance from the center. A bus network operates within the city, but the schedule may not be very frequent, especially on weekends and in the evenings.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Canadian dollar. Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere: in hotels, restaurants, and shops. Cash may be needed only for small souvenirs or tips, which are customarily left here in the amount of 15–20% of the bill.
4. Health and Safety: Sault Ste. Marie is a calm and safe city where you can walk without concern even in the evening. Pharmacies and clinics are available in all districts. If you plan forest walks in summer, be sure to stock up on high-quality repellents: mosquitoes and black flies in Northern Ontario can be very persistent.
5. Communication: The main language of communication is English. Although Canada is officially bilingual, the French-speaking community in this region is small, so basic English will be quite sufficient. Locals speak quite clearly and are always ready to help a tourist.
6. Local Etiquette: The city's residents are distinguished by their friendliness and politeness. It is customary to greet staff when entering small shops, hold doors for those following you, and respect queues at stops or cash registers.
7. What to Avoid: Be extremely attentive on rural highways, especially at twilight and dawn. Wild animals, including moose and deer, often step onto the road, creating a serious danger for motorists. Also, do not attempt to cross the border with the USA across the bridge on foot — this is prohibited.
8. Additional Tip: If your goal is the famous Agawa Canyon Tour Train, book tickets several months before your trip. This applies especially to the autumn season, when seats sell out instantly for the views of the "golden autumn".

By following these simple tips, you can avoid minor inconveniences and fully focus on exploring the unique nature and hospitable atmosphere of this border city. Proper preparation is the key to bright and positive impressions from your trip.