How to Get from Barrie to Guelph: The Fastest and Slowest Routes

If you're planning a road trip from Barrie to Guelph, you're in for a scenic ride through some of Ontario's most beautiful countryside. But before you hit the road, you'll want to plan your route carefully, taking into account the time it will take and the different options available.

The Fastest (and Shortest) Route

The fastest and shortest way to get from Barrie to Guelph is to take the Ontario 400 South and the Ontario 401 West. This route covers a distance of approximately 118 km and takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes.

However, keep in mind that the 401 can get quite busy, especially during rush hour. If you're travelling during peak traffic times, it might be worth looking at alternative routes.

The Scenic Route

If you're not in a hurry and want to enjoy some of the lovely scenery Ontario has to offer, you might consider taking the back roads. This route will take you through several small towns and farm communities.

To take this route, you'll want to turn off the 400 at either Innisfil Beach Road or Highway 89. From there, follow the signs for Orillia and then continue on to Shelburne and Arthur before arriving in Guelph. This route covers approximately 160 km and takes around 2 hours and 20 minutes.

The Middle-Ground Route

If you want to avoid the worst of the traffic on the 401 but don't have the time for the scenic route, you might consider taking a middle-ground route.

One such option is to take the 400 south to Highway 9, then follow that to Orangeville and beyond. This route will take you through some lovely countryside and will add around 20 minutes to your journey. Alternatively, you could take Highway 27 south to Highway 9. This route is slightly shorter but has more traffic lights and can take longer if you hit a lot of red lights.

Traffic Considerations

When planning your trip, keep in mind that rush hour traffic can be quite heavy on the 401. Traffic also tends to slow down around major cities like Toronto and Mississauga. If you're travelling during peak traffic times, it's best to plan for extra time on the road.

On the other hand, if you're travelling during off-peak times, you might enjoy a faster and more relaxed journey. Keep in mind that traffic can still be heavy on the 401 even outside of rush hour, so it's always best to plan for some extra time in case of delays.

In conclusion, there are a few different routes you can take when driving from Barrie to Guelph, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Whether you're looking for speed, scenery, or something in between, there's a route that will suit your needs. Just be sure to plan ahead for traffic and allow plenty of time for delays along the way.