Thaton is on Route 1089 between Fang and Mae Chan. Buses and songthaews connect it with Chiang Mai, Fang, and Chiang Rai, though services can be slow and irregular compared with major tourist routes.
The memorable arrival or departure is by boat on the Kok River between Thaton and Chiang Rai. Boats depend on season, water level, and demand, so check locally before planning a tight connection around them.