The highway is one of the most isolated in Ontario, passing through forest for the majority of its 271 km (168 mi) length.

It exits Greater Sudbury at Windy Lake Provincial Park and passes through the village of Cartier, then enters a long isolated stretch surrounded by boreal forest.

[6] Construction began in that year on a new route connecting Sudbury to Timmins, with work commencing at both ends as well as from Gogama.

In early 1983, contracts were tendered for the grading of the northern 8.7 km (5.4 mi) section within what was then the town of Rayside-Balfour.

The project was completed by the end of the year, after which a second contract was awarded to grade a further 6 km (3.7 mi).

[13] The Ministry of Transportation has announced a preliminary study into potential improvements to the route between Chelmsford and Dowling, which may include the possibility of a full bypass realignment.

[15][16][17] The following table lists the major junctions along Highway 144, as noted by the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario.