Trans-Canada Highway is a road that runs across Canada from coast to coast, between Victoria in British Columbia and St. John’s on the island of Newfoundland. It connects all 10 of the country’s provinces. The main route stretches almost 4,900 miles (7,900 kilometers). The road varies from a two-lane highway to a multilane expressway. Ferry boats provide connections at both coasts.
The Trans-Canada Highway has been called the “Main Street of Canada” because it links nearly all major Canadian cities. It also provides access to many of the country’s spectacular national parks, including Glacier, Mount Revelstoke, and Yoho in British Columbia; Banff in Alberta; and Terra Nova on the island of Newfoundland.
Construction of the highway began in 1950. The road was formally dedicated in 1962. Through the years, additional routes have reached more of the country. A northern prairie route stretches between the main highway west of Winnipeg, Manitoba, and Prince Rupert, British Columbia. Extensions in Ontario and Quebec carry travelers north and south of the main route.
