Routines and rituals

[RHYBAK]

Yep, we always pack a cribbage board
never leaves the bin

[Bennythebushman]

I used to play euchre with my great uncle (who Johnny has more than 1 drinking story about). Also on one trip my uncle gave me a worm harness tied by my grandfather who passed away over 15 years ago. I fished it one night and caught 12 walleyes. I have never fished it since, but always tuck it into my life jacket pocket for luck.

[Robnfl3]

Last year was my first trip back in 20+ years.  We used to leave about 9 in thr morning, hit Toronto about 4 and sail right through heading to north bay for the night.  Well anyway driving through Toronta at 4 on a Friday evening didnt not work out as i would have hoped.  So i am thinking i need to change this ritual and come through toronta either much earlier or later, any advice would be appreciated 

[Oarin]

Take the 407.

[puckster_guy]

 Hit Toronta by 10am you should be ok

[adempsey]

I was considering taking 407 to 404/48 to 11 to bypass 400.  Not sure though.  Anyone ever take 12/169 up to 11?  I'd rather have a smooth continuous drive even if it takes longer.

[Balsams]

If your coming from Niagara Falls or Erie or Detroit, mid to late morning take 407'to 400 (which turns into 11) all the way up. Shouldn't hit traffic.

[adempsey]

I lived in Toronto most of my life and usually plan my trip on the 400 accordingly. This year is a bit of a problem.   I won't be able to leave Toronto until the evening.    I suppose I can wait until after 8PM on Friday, but even then the 400 is probably a gong show.   So, was thinking about going up the other side of Simcoe.   The 404 is usually not too bad and I've traveled 48 a lot, but rarely have I gone up as far as 11.

[Balsams]

404 is brutal til about 7:00. Fri night traffic will apply approaching 48 & 12, until after Brechin. I'd still say 400.

[Canuckbass]

Hwy 12 and 169 is a great route, flatter drive if towing and on 80km highway.
We go up Thursday mornings and works well for the city boys coming up.

[NortonJoe]

@RHYBAK Man I haven't played Cribbage in years!  Sometimes, depending on room, we will pack Monopoly, Risk or some other old school board games to break up the poker games.

[RHYBAK]

Hwy 12 and 169 is a great route, flatter drive if towing and on 80km highway.
We go up Thursday mornings and works well for the city boys coming up.

I don't get the 12/169 route?400 is so direct and straight.
12/169 has was to many bends, stop lights,small towns.
400 is a roll of the dice.
Good or bad, still the better road in my opinion.
.

[Robnfl3]

I am coming from the west (401-407) the soonest I see myself being able to make it to Toronto is 1pm Friday.  Wondering if 27 north is an option or should I just try my luck on the 400?  Thanks for the help in advance.

[RHYBAK]

You know, we are not the only ones going north looking for alternate routes.
Just as many people know about and us 27 north, 11 north, 12/169 north.
Friday night is Friday night.
Some good, some bad.
There are no real good alternatives between Toronto and North Bay.

One little secret is Weston Road.
If you are stuck in really bad accident traffic and you have an exit to use, you get off, turn west, take the very first road and turn north.
If you are before Holland Marsh, you will have to turn East at Highway 9 and get back onto 400.
If you use this at highway 88 or 89, this road will take you right up to Essa road in Barrie.
Again ,you will have to turn right to get back to the 400.
After Essa road ,there are no more alternatives.

[adempsey]

I have been stuck on the 400 for HOURS several times.   Sitting in bumper to bumper traffic for 2+ hours sucks horribly.  I'd rather my drive be 2 hours longer than sit in bumper to bumper traffic.  It's not a common thing, but if there is an accident on the 400 in either direction, that's what happens.   

So an alternative route is a good option for me depending on the time I can get out of Toronto.  The 400 is great if you can get on it before all the cottagers do.

The 27 can be OK.  It gets funky near Barrie and I always get lost, lol.