train travel ontario

The Man in Seat 61

A beginner's guide to

Train travel in canada.

• Buy train tickets
• Buy ferry tickets
• Book a hotel
• Privacy & cookies
•   Home

Train travel UK & Ireland...

Train travel in europe..., train travel in asia..., train travel in africa..., train travel in america..., train travel in australasia.

Canadian long-distance trains are run by VIA Rail Canada, www.viarail.ca .  They're a great way to see the country, whether you travel on the inter-city trains between Toronto, Montréal and Québec, the Océan from Montréal to Halifax or Canada's classic trans-continental train, The Canadian from Toronto to Winnipeg, Edmonton, Jasper & Vancouver.  As well as VIA Rail, there's the excellent Rocky Mountaineer through the Rockies between Vancouver & Banff, Calgary or Jasper.  This page explains routes, timetables, prices & what the trains are like.

Train times, fares & tickets

On other pages

Interactive map:   click a route, useful country information, toronto - winnipeg - vancouver.

The greatest train in Canada and one of the world's great train journeys, VIA Rail's Canadian runs 2 or 3 times a week, linking Toronto, Winnipeg, Edmonton, Jasper National Park in the Rockies & Vancouver.  See schedule, fares, how to buy tickets & a guide to the train & journey .

Back to top

Montreal - Halifax

Three times a week, a train runs the 836 miles between Montreal and Halifax Nova Scotia.  See the Montreal to Halifax page for train times, fares, info, and an illustrated account of the journey .

Toronto - Ottawa - Montreal - Quebec

There's no need to fly.  Comfortable VIA Rail inter-city trains link Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal & Quebec, centre to centre with no airport hassle.  If your budget permits, upgrade to VIA's Business Class with complimentary hot meal and wine, attentive steward service and access to VIA Rail's Business Lounges at major stations.  It impressed me, it's as good as anything we have here in Europe.  Since October 2019 only credit cards have been accepted as payment on board, not cash.

Toronto to Montréal by train in 5h10

VIA Rail's fast inter-city trains link Toronto, Ottawa & Montréal.  Montréal to Toronto takes around 5h10 city centre to city centre.  Use the times below as a guide and check current train times at www.viarail.ca .  See the photos .  Watch the video .

Montréal to Québec by train in 3h15

From Montréal to Québec, air-conditioned trains run several times daily, taking around 3h15.  Check current times, fares & book online at www.viarail.ca .

Montreal to Ottawa & Toronto to Ottawa, www.viarail.ca

Montreal to Ottawa takes 1h50.  Toronto to Ottawa takes about 4h20.

How much does it cost?

Montréal to Toronto starts at around Can$ 61 if you book in advance, fares vary like air fares. 

Montreal to Quebec starts at around Can$ 48 if you book in advance, fares vary like air fares.

How to buy tickets

Option 1, buy at www.viarail.ca

Booking opens 11 months (331 days) in advance.  You print your own tickets.

Payment problems on viarail.ca?

There are recent reports of VIA's payment system refusing non-Canadian cards.

One theory is that they have a standard for card verification higher than most foreign cards.

Option 2, buy at Omio.com or 12go.com

You can easily buy economy or business class tickets at Omio.com in multiple currencies & languages, with no payment problems.

You can also buy tickets at 12go.com , also in multiple currencies & languages.

To buy tickets by phone , call VIA Rail on 1 888 VIA-RAIL (1 888 842-7245).

Toronto Union Station

Union Station sits in the centre of Toronto in the shadow of the CN Tower, just across the road from the wonderful and highly-recommended Royal York Hotel .  One of the world's classic railway stations, the current structure was built 1914-1920, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Union_Station_(Toronto) .

Via Rail's Inter-city trains.  See the video

Montreal central station, watch the video :  toronto to montreal, toronto to niagara falls, take a day trip by train to niagara falls.

You can easily take the train from Toronto to Niagara Falls (Ontario) either as a day trip, longer trip or as a stopover en route to New York.  The Canadian side of the Falls gives great views of the Falls themselves and features both a boat ride (the Hornblower cruise, www.niagaracruises.com ) and a walk behind the Falls, www.niagaraparks.com/niagara-falls-attractions/journey-behind-the-falls.html .  For trains between Niagara Falls and New York, see the section below .

Option 1, by once-daily VIA Rail train from Ca$28

A daily direct VIA Rail train called the Maple Leaf links Toronto Union Station and Niagara Falls Ontario on its way to & from New York.  It's ideal for a day trip, and uses comfortable Amtrak Amfleet cars with coach class, a small business class section and a cafe car, even though it is operated by VIA Rail Canada on the section between Toronto and Niagara - an Amtrak crew take over at Niagara.

Outward:   Toronto Union Station depart 08:20 every day, Niagara Falls Ontario VIA station arrive 10:20. 

Inbound:   Niagara Falls Ontario VIA station depart 17:45, Toronto Union arrive 19:43.

Fares from around $28 each way including taxes.

Buy tickets at www.viarail.ca , or buy at Omio.com or 12go.com in multiple currencies & languages . 

Reservation is compulsory but it's usually possible to get tickets on the day.

Option 2, by GO Transit direct train from Ca$21

GO Transit operates three daily trains from Toronto to Niagara Falls (Canada) every day, including a useful morning one.  The trains are distinctive green & white double-deck GO Transit trains, see the photos below.

Departures from Toronto :  Weekdays at 09:52, 17:12, 22:40.  Saturdays at 09:03, 13:03, 18:21.  Sundays at 09:03,

Departures from Niagara Falls Canada :  Weekdays at 06:32, 13:10, 21:10.  Saturdays at 12:05, 16:05, 21:05.  Sundays at 12:05, 16:05, 20:05.

Journey time 2h15.

Fares start at Ca$21.15 each way.

If the timing of these few direct trains doesn't suit you, use the hourly train+bus combo shown in option 3 below.

Check times & buy tickets at www.viarail.ca or www.gotransit.com .

When using www.viarail.ca , the direct GO Transit trains are shown in the search results with as green GO logo.  The train+bus combo departures (option 3 below) are shown with a grey train & bus icon.

Option 3:  By GO Transit train/bus combo from Ca$21 each way

Roughly every hour through the day, distinctive double-decker GO trains link Toronto Union Station with Burlington station, from where a connecting bus runs to Niagara Falls Bus Terminal (located directly across the road from Niagara Falls Ontario rail station).  Total journey time 2h47 - roughly 1h05 train and 1h30 bus.  This is a simple turn-up-and-go service, no reservation is necessary, it cannot sell out, just buy a ticket for Ca$18 at the station (or bus terminal) immediately before departure.  As it needs no pre-planning it's ideal for the return part of a day trip from Toronto, as you don't need to commit to a specific time to come back. 

You can check bus-rail times at either www.viarail.ca or www.gotransit.com .  When using www.viarail.ca , the train+bus combo departures are shown in the search results with a grey train & bus icon.  Any direct GO Transit trains (option 2 above) will be shown with as green GO logo.

Where are the station & bus terminal?  See map showing station, bus terminal & Falls

Niagara Falls (Ontario) Station & Niagara Falls Bus Terminal are just across the road from each other in the old downtown area.  The falls themselves (and all the tourist attractions) are a mile or two to the south, a taxi to the Falls costs around Ca$14 + tip and take 5-10 minutes.  You'll find plenty of taxis waiting at the station and bus terminal.  The station is sometimes called the GO Station, but it's the same one used by VIA Rail.   Map showing location of Niagara Falls VIA Rail station, Bus Terminal & the Falls .

Visiting the Falls

Vancouver to victoria & seattle, vancouver to victoria by bus & ferry.

If you're going to Vancouver, don't miss a trip to the British Columbia provincial capital Victoria, on Vancouver Island.  Regular buses link Vancouver with Victoria in about 3½ hours, going on board a ferry to reach the Island.

See bcfconnector.com for times, fares & online booking.

Vancouver to Seattle by train

Two daily articulated Spanish-designed Talgo trains link Seattle with Vancouver, one morning, one evening.  For details, see www.amtrakcascades.com   or www.amtrak.com . 

You can also travel between Vancouver and Seattle via Victoria, using bus to Victoria ( bcfconnector.com ) , then the fast ferry to Seattle ( www.clippervacations.com ).

Victoria to Seattle by fast ferry

There is an excellent daily fast catamaran service between Victoria and Seattle, see www.clippervacations.com .

Vancouver Island train service:  Victoria-Nanaimo-Courtenay The Malahat

Railcar service.  This used to run every day on the 225 km route, leaving Victoria 08:00 Mon-Sat, 10:00 Sundays, returning in the afternoon.  Unfortunately, this service has been suspended for some years now due to the condition of the track.

New York to Toronto & Montreal

Two excellent trains link New York with Montreal & Toronto every day, with inexpensive fares, comfortable reclining seats, a café car & great scenery along the Hudson River Valley.  It's a day well spent, highly recommended.  The Adirondack from New York to Montreal is run by Amtrak, the Maple Leaf from New York to Toronto is run by Amtrak whilst in the USA then by VIA Rail when in Canada.  Watch the video .  Map showing location of Niagara Falls VIA Rail & Amtrak stations & the Falls .

New York-Montreal starts at $70 in coach class. 

New York to Toronto starts at $134 in coach class or $169 in business class.

Buy tickets at www.amtrak.com or www.viarail.ca

You print your own ticket or (if booked with Amtrak) you can show it on the Amtrak app on your phone.

Tip:   The booking systems show the Maple Leaf as two separate trains either side of the Canadian border with two different train numbers.  But rest assured that it is indeed one direct train, run by Amtrak in the USA and taken over by VIA Rail when in Canada.  You get off at the border to go through border formalities, see the border controls paragraph below. 

What are the trains like?

The New York-Toronto Maple Leaf has two coach class cars with extra-legroom long-distance reclining seats which are prioritised for passengers to/from Canada, two coach class cars with regular seats & a cafe-car with a tables area, serving counter and 17 business class seats - see the photos below.  The café car accepts USD & credit cards but not CAD whilst in the USA.  Business class offers leather seats arranged 2+1 across the car width and complimentary tea, coffee or soft drinks from the cafe car, although leg room is no more generous than in the long-distance coach class cars where it is already excellent.

The New York-Montreal Adirondack has coach class seats with extra-legroom long-distance reclining seats & a cafe car.  The café car accepts USD & credit cards but not CAD whilst in the USA.

Luggage arrangements

These trains don't have checked baggage, you simply take your luggage with you onto the train and put it on the racks just as you would on any European train.  There are floor-standing racks and spacious racks above all seats.  Luggage limits are far more generous than for planes, you can take one personal bag and two large bags with you, see www.amtrak.com/baggage-policy .

Border control arrangements

Northbound :  When leaving from New York Penn Station Moynihan Train Hall, you must first go to the Canada check-in desk, open an hour or two before departure.  Staff at that desk will check your ticket and passport and ask how many bags you’re taking.  They'll give you a luggage tag for each of your bags plus a boarding pass that says you've been checked in for Canada.  Lines then form for the train, one for domestic passengers and one for international passengers, the latter are allowed to board first, waved forward to the two extra-legroom long-distance coach class cars at the front of the train.  Approaching the border, the train calls at Niagara Falls USA, then rumbles slowly across the bridge over the Niagara River to Niagara Falls Canada station.  Here, all passengers get off with their luggage, enter the station building and file through Canadian border control (which is pretty painless) and re-board the train.  There's usually plenty of time for this.

Southbound:   Leaving from Montreal or Toronto, passengers bound for the USA are given numbered luggage tags for their bags whilst waiting to board, there's then a brief ticket & ID check on the platform.  At Niagara Falls USA passengers get off with their luggage, go through US border controls and re-board the train.

What's the journey like?

The most important tip of all is to get a seat on the left hand side of the train going north out of New York, right hand side going south from Canada , so you are on the side with all the Hudson River views.  These trains are all-reserved, meaning the number of passengers cannot exceed the number of seats, but you don't get a specific assigned seat.  If a group of you want to sit together, or you want seats on the left hand side, it pays to queue up early and get on first.

Historically, trains heading along the Hudson River towards Albany would have left from New York's wonderful Grand Central Station, but a connecting line opened in the early 1990s allows all Amtrak trains to use Penn Station.  The train leaves Penn station heading northwest, but shortly afterwards it turns northeast on what was originally a freight line in tunnels under the west side of Manhattan.  It emerges into daylight alongside the Hudson River, joining the line that came out of Grand Central.

Both the Maple Leaf & Adirondack then travel along the scenic Hudson River Valley with the rails often right next to the river, passing West Point Military Academy, Bannerman's Island, Storm King Mountain and other sights.  You'll even see the occasional historic lighthouse in mid-Hudson!

At Albany Rensselaer station the locomotive is changed from an electro-diesel (which can operate on electric power in the Penn Station tunnels) to a regular diesel, both Maple Leaf and Adirondack stop here long enough for you to stretch your legs on the platform. 

After leaving Albany, the Maple Leaf turns west and crosses the Hudson on a vast steel bridge with great views of the city of Albany on the left hand side on the far bank.  It then leaves the Hudson behind and starts following the Mohawk River.  Look out for the vast derelict Buffalo Central Terminal , a railroad station operational from 1929-1979, on the right hand side just before the train  reaches the current Buffalo Exchange Street station.  After calling at Niagara Falls USA, the train rumbles slowly across the bridge over the Niagara River separating the United States from Canada.  You can't see the falls themselves from the train, but can see the spray in the distance.  The train then rounds Lake Ontario into Toronto.

After leaving Albany, the Adirondack heads north through the scenic Adirondack Mountains which give the train its name.  You'll get views of Lake Champlain on the right of the train going north to Montreal, left heading south from Montreal.

Watch the video:  New York to Toronto

The rocky mountaineer.

Rocky Mountaineer trains run regularly from mid-April to mid-October on the following routes:

Other trains in Canada

Jasper - prince george - prince rupert:  the skeena.

Runs 3 times a week, departing Wednesdays, Fridays, Sundays from both Jasper & Prince Rupert. 

It's an amazingly scenic 2-day journey, the train stopping overnight at Prince George so you see it all in daylight (you will need to book a hotel separately, it's not included in the fare).  Economy class seating is available all year round, 'Touring' class seating is available mid-June to late September.  There's a 'Park' lounge-observation-dome car attached at the rear, for all passengers off-season, only for Touring class passengers in peak season (June-Sept).  For times, fares & online booking, see www.viarail.ca .

Winnipeg to Churchill:  The Hudson Bay

Runs 3 times a week, to the land where the polar bears live.  See www.viarail.ca .

Toronto-North Cochrane-Moosonee (Ontario  Northland)

Long-distance train service due north out of Toronto, run by Ontario Northland, see ontarionorthland.ca .  Their Toronto to Cochrane route closed from 28 September 2012 with replacement by bus, some Cochrane to Moosonee train service seems to hvae continued.  Please check the current situation at ontarionorthland.ca .

Railpasses for Canada

CanRail passes for unlimited travel on VIA Rail in Economy Class seats were discontinued during the pandemic and have not reappeared, check with VIA at www.viarail.ca .

Even when a pass existed, you still needed to make reservations, you could not hop on and off without reserving.  And it was for seats, not sleepers.  You could make reservations online at www.viarail.ca , but you could only use your pass where an Economy or Escape fare was available, if these were sold out and the only fare available was an Economy Plus fare, you couldn't use the pass.  Although if you bought an 'Extra' type pass, you could also book Economy Plus tickets starting from the day before departure.

Europe to Canada by ship

Southampton - new york - toronto  or montreal via cunard's queen mary 2.

There are no regular direct passenger ships from the UK to Canada.  However, Cunard's superb Queen Mary 2 sails from Southampton to New York roughly once a month between April & November taking 7 nights, see the Queen Mary 2 page for details .  Once in New York, there are excellent daily trains to Toronto and Montreal, see the USA to Canada section above .

Tours across Canada by train

Custom-made tours with railbookers.

Train travel specialists Railbookers can arrange custom-made holidays to Canada including flights, hotels and a trip on the Canadian right across Canada.  They know their stuff, look after their clients well and get a lot of repeat business.

Escorted tours with Great Rail Journeys, www.greatrail.com

UK rail-based tour operator Great Rail Journeys offers a classic Canada coast-to-coast tour from around £3,600 per person, with a range of departure dates every year.  The tour includes:

Flights UK to Toronto;

A day trip to Niagara Falls;

A journey across Canada Canada from Toronto to Jasper aboard VIA Rail's trans-continental Canadian in Sleeper Plus class;

A coach tour from Jasper to Banff with a Columbia ice fields glacier visit;

A journey on the Rocky Mountaineer from Banff to Vancouver;

Flight Vancouver to UK.

It's an escorted tour with fellow travellers and a professional tour guide.  Great Rail Journeys also offer rail-based holidays to other countries.  Check the tour details online , then call 01904 527120 to book or use the Great Rail Journeys online booking form .  Seat61 receives some commission to help support the site if you book your holiday through this link or phone number, so please mention seat 61 when you book.

Rail Discoveries, www.raildiscoveries.com , 01904 730 727

Buy Lonely Planet from Amazon.co.uk (UK) or Amazon.com (USA)

Buy Rough Guide from Amazon.co.uk (UK) or Amazon.com (USA)

Alternatively, download just the chapters or areas you need in .PDF format from the Lonely Planet Website , from around £2.99 or US$4.95 a chapter.

The Trans-Canada Rail Guide

Trailblazer's Trans-Canada Rail Guide is well worth buying if you're planning a trans-Canada train trip. 

It will help you plan your journey, has city information for all the major cities served by VIA & Rocky Mountaineer, and best of all it includes mile-by-mile lineside route guides showing what to see from the train on all the main VIA Rail & Rocky Mountaineer services. 

Buy online from Amazon.co.uk .

If you live in the USA, buy from Amazon.com .

Recommended hotels

In toronto:  fairmont royal york.

The Fairmont Royal York Hotel is Toronto's most famous place to stay and one of the world's classic grand hotels with over 1,000 rooms.  It started life as a railway hotel, opened by the Canadian Pacific Railway in June 1929 - at that time the tallest building in the British Empire.  Today it's easily the most convenient, comfortable and historic place to stay before or after catching a train, being directly across the road from Toronto Union Station.  I've stayed there several times now!  There's more historical information about the hotel at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fairmont_Royal_York .

In Vancouver:  Fairmont Vancouver Hotel

In the centre of downtown Vancouver, next to Christ Church Cathedral and only a few blocks from the Waterfront, the Fairmont Vancouver Hotel is a former railway hotel.  It was started by Canadian National Railways but completed in partnership with rival Canadian Pacific, opened in 1939 by King George VI and Queen Elizabeth.  It's another iconic Canadian chateau-style hotel, a true Vancouver landmark.  And if your budget will stretch, Fairmont won't disappoint.  If you want something a bit cheaper, try the St Regis Hotel , also excellently located downtown and also a historic Vancouver landmark, opened in 1913.

Backpacker hostels: www.hostelworld.com

www.hostelworld.com :  If you're on a tight budget, don't forget about backpacker hostels.  Hostelworld offers online booking of cheap private rooms or dorm beds in backpacker hostels in most cities at rock-bottom prices.

Flights to Canada

1) check flight prices at opodo, www.opodo.com, 2) use skyscanner to compare flight prices & routes worldwide across 600 airlines.

3)  Lounge passes

Make the airport experience a little more bearable with a VIP lounge pass, it's not as expensive as you think, see www.loungepass.com

Travel insurance & other tips

Always take out travel insurance.

Never travel overseas without travel insurance from a reliable insurer, with at least £1m or preferably £5m medical cover.  It should also cover cancellation and loss of cash and belongings, up to a sensible limit.  An annual multi-trip policy is usually cheaper than several single-trip policies even for just 2 or 3 trips a year, I have an annual policy with Staysure.co.uk myself.  Here are some suggested insurers.  Seat61 gets a small commission if you buy through these links.

Get an eSIM with mobile data package

Don't rely on WiFi, download an eSIM with a mobile data package for the country you're visiting and stay connected.  Most newer mobile phones can download a virtual SIM card so you don't need to buy a physical SIM, including iPhone 11 & later, see device compatibility list .  Maya.net is a reliable eSIM data retailer with a 4.5 out of 5 Trustpilot rating and a range of packages including unlimited data .

Get a Curve card for foreign travel

Most banks give you a poor exchange rate, then add a foreign transaction fee on top.  A Curve MasterCard means no foreign transaction fees and gives you the mid-market exchange rate, at least up to a certain limit, £500 per month at time of writing.  The money you spend on your Curve card goes straight onto one of your existing debit or credit cards.

How it works:   1. Download the Curve app for iPhone or Android .  2. Enter your details & they'll send you a Curve MasterCard - they send to the UK and most European addresses.  3. Link your existing credit & debit cards to the app, you can link up to two cards with the free version of Curve, I link my normal debit card and my normal credit card.  4. Now use the Curve MasterCard to buy things online or in person or take cash from ATMs, exactly like a normal MasterCard. Curve does the currency conversion and puts the balance in your own currency onto whichever debit or credit card is currently selected in the Curve app.  You can even change your mind about which card it goes onto, within 14 days of the transaction.

I have a Curve Blue card myself, it means I can buy a coffee on a foreign station on a card without being stung by fees and lousy exchange rates, just by tapping the Curve card on their card reader.  The money goes through Curve to my normal debit card and is taken directly from my account (in fact I have the Curve card set up as payment card on Apple Pay on my iPhone, so can double-click my phone, let it do Face ID then tap the reader with the phone - even easier than digging a card out).  I get a little commission if you sign up to Curve, but I recommend it here because I think it's great.  See details, download the app and get a Curve card , they'll give you £5 cashback through that link.

Get a VPN for safe browsing.  W hy you need a VPN

When you're travelling you often use free WiFi in public places which may not be secure.  A VPN encrypts your connection so it's always secure, even on unsecured WiFi.  It also means you can select the geographic location of the IP address you browse with, to get around geoblocking which a surprising number of websites apply.  See VPNs & why you need one explained .  ExpressVPN is a best buy with a 4.7 out of 5 Trustpilot ranking which I use myself - I've signed up as an ExpressVPN affiliate, and if you go with expressvpn.com using the links on this page, you should see a special deal, 3 months free with an annual subscription.  I get a small commission to help support this site.

Carry an Anker powerbank

Tickets, reservations, vaccination records and Interrail or Eurail passes are often held digitally on your mobile phone, so it's vital to keep it charged.  I always carry an Anker powerbank which can recharge my phone several times over if I can't get to a power outlet.  Buy from Amazon.co.uk or from Buy from Amazon.com .

Back to home page

Agawa Canyon Tour Train | Destination Ontario

Scenic train rides in Southern Ontario

Scenic train rides in muskoka and northern ontario, train museums and rail attractions in southern ontario, train museums and rail attractions in muskoka and northern ontario, on this page, heritage railway tours and train museums.

Experience the romance, adventure and nostalgia of train travel as you climb aboard a heritage train or visit rail exhibits at a train museum.

You’ll get unique glimpses of Ontario’s fascinating railway history, marvel at rail engineering feats of the past and experience what train travel was like in a bygone era.

Train enthusiasts of all ages can see historic rail artifacts and engage in immersive activities at the railway museums. And scenic train rides continue to showcase stunning views of Ontario’s forested hills and valleys, rural plains and rugged wilderness.

Prices and length of trips vary, and tours are weather dependent, so check ahead before you visit. Don’t miss out on train travel; tickets sell out fast.

Here are some of the top historic trains, rail tours and railway museums in Ontario.

Waterloo Central Railway

Take a scenic heritage tour through Mennonite farm country in Woolwich Township and Waterloo Region.

The Waterloo Junction Railway was built in the 1800s. Today a small fleet of historic steam and diesel-electric locomotives operate along this historic rail line. Passenger train rides between Waterloo, the St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market, the Village of St. Jacobs and the town of Elmira run frequently.

Ticket proceeds from the Waterloo Central Railway go directly towards supporting their operations and restoration programs.

Location: 50 Isabella Street, St. Jacobs

Port Stanley Terminal Rail

Port Stanley Terminal Rail is Elgin County’s longest running tourist attraction. Operating for over 40 years, this heritage, diesel-powered locomotive travels seven kilometres along the former London to Port Stanley track through the scenic Kettle Creek Valley between Port Stanley and St. Thomas.  

Keep an eye out for their special event rides held throughout the year, such as the “Easter Egg Hunt Train,” where kids can meet the Easter Bunny and the “Rare Mileage Autumn Colours Photo Trip” for a glimpse at the gorgeous foliage colours of the autumn season.

The Port Stanley Terminal Rail operates April to December. Check online for departure times.

Location: 309 Bridge Street, Port Stanley

South Simcoe Railway

Climb into a restored 1920’s rail coach in Tottenham and ride the rails along a century-old line that once connected Hamilton with Barrie and Collingwood.

Today, the train travels through Beeton Creek Valley and lasts about an hour roundtrip. You’ll enjoy a great commentary from the conductor along the way.

Location: Mill Street West, Tottenham

Portage Flyer Train at Muskoka Heritage Place

Travel back to 1904 aboard the Portage Flyer Train between South Portage and Lake of Bays. Chug alongside the Muskoka River in a turn-of-the-century, open-sided steam engine coach riding an authentic, narrow gauge railway—once the world’s shortest commercial rail line.

At Fairy Lake Station, visit the Steam Train Museum (open when the train is operating). The building is modelled after a typical 1920s Ontario train station and depicts how trains and steam travel opened up the area to settlement, tourism and business development.

The train runs from May to October at select times depending on the season, check online for more details and ticket information.

Location: 100 Forbes Hill Drive, Huntsville

Agawa Canyon Tour Train

Journey deep into the Canadian Shield on a scenic 182 kilometre rail tour that offers views of pristine northern lakes, granite rock formations, dense forest and native wildlife.

One of the most popular train tours in North America, this one-day adventure lasts for 10 hours. The audio guide will identify points of interest and recount the region’s rich history with stories of the Ojibwe, fur traders, explorers, entrepreneurs and the famed Group of Seven painters.

The train tour includes stopping points for hiking and visits to lookouts and stunning waterfalls (including the Agawa Canyon, Bridal Veil Falls and Black Beaver Falls).

Boxed lunches and coffee are available for pickup with your admission.

Location: 99 Huron Street, Sault Ste. Marie

Toronto Railway Museum

Learn about Toronto’s railway heritage at this downtown indoor and outdoor museum, located close to the CN Tower. Kids will love riding the miniature train that chugs around the circular railroad track.

The museum is open Wednesday to Sunday.

Location: 255 Bremner Boulevard, Toronto

Elgin County Railway Museum

Explore the history of St. Thomas and its railways at the Elgin County Railway Museum (ECRM).

Known as the “Railway Capital of Canada,” St. Thomas is famous for being an important railway junction in the country, and that more than 100 trains used to pass through the city every day.

Discover its integral role in Canada’s railway history with a variety of experiences such as the History of Motion model train display, which offers a bird’s-eye view of the city’s historic rail yards and the Rolling Stock Gallery.

The Elgin County Railway Museum is open on a seasonal basis. 

Location: 225 Wellington Street, St. Thomas

Komoka Railway Museum

Discover the rail legacy of Komoka Railway Museum, formerly a busy railway station just outside of London.

Rail-themed programs are geared toward young steam locomotive enthusiasts. And kids will enjoy the miniature steam train rides throughout the summer.

Hours of operation vary so check online before your visit.

Location: 131 Queen Street, Komoka

Fort Erie Railway Museum

Fort Erie was once home to the third-largest rail yard in Canada and this outdoor museum pays tribute to its history with several exhibits.

View a 6218 Canadian National Railway Steam Engine, the original Grand Trunk Railway Station, tools and telegraphic equipment and tourist and excursion lines in Fort Erie. 

An old CN B-1 Station, once used to monitor traffic over the International Railway Bridge, is now the museum’s office and gift shop.

Fort Erie Railway Museum is open seasonally. Admission is by donation.

Location: 400 Central Avenue, Fort Erie

Halton County Radial Railway Museum

The Halton County Radial Railway (HCRR) is Ontario’s first and largest electric railway museum. A full-size operating electric streetcar runs on two kilometres of tracks passing through the scenic forests of Halton County.

Learn more about the history of electric railways in Ontario and Canada, and tour the various vintage streetcars, radial cars and work cars rescued from the scrapyard by the HCRR. A collection of photographs, memorabilia and archival materials is also on display.

The HCRR Museum is open seasonally. 

Location: 13629 Guelph Line, Campbellville

Hamilton Museum of Steam & Technology

Also known as the “Steam Museum,” the Hamilton Museum of Steam & Technology features a collection of artifacts relating to the city’s industrial past and examines Hamilton’s relationship with water, steam power and industrialization.

Guided tours, public programs and special educational events are available for kids and adults alike, such as Train Days, Boats in the Park and The Electric City Festival.

The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday.

Location: 900 Woodward Avenue, Hamilton

Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario

The Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario is located inside a National Historic Site station building constructed in 1912 in Lanark County. It showcases valuable artifacts and demonstrates how these heritage machines were used.

An optional guided tour is included in the admission. Check for seasonal themed events, such as “All Aboard the Hogwarts Express” for Harry Potter fans and the “Haunted Train” for spooky stories about haunted ghost trains.

For the most passionate train buffs, three heritage cabooses have been converted to provide a unique overnight accommodation experience .

The Railway Museum is open from May to October.

Location: 90 William Street West, Smiths Falls

Engine 1905

A popular tourist attraction in Kingston’s Confederation Park, Engine 1905 is a reminder of the city’s industrial past and home of the Canadian Locomotive Company.

More than 3,000 steam, electric and diesel engines, including Engine 1905, were built by the company for the Canadian Pacific Railway. After Engine 1905’s retirement in 1960, it was acquired and restored by Kingston to preserve a significant part of Kingston’s—and Canada’s—rail history.

Engine 1905 is available for public viewing year-round.

Location: Near Confederation Park, Kingston

Brockville Railway Tunnel

Experience history in motion in Canada's first railway tunnel! Restored in 2018, this epic historical gem is free to walk through and features a stunning light and sound show. You can choose to walk the tunnel or take a ride on the Tunnel Express train. 

Location: Armagh Sifton Price Park, 1 Block House Island Road, Brockville

Northern Ontario Railroad Museum & Heritage Centre

Located a half hour drive north of Sudbury, the Northern Ontario Railroad Museum & Heritage Centre is housed in an early twentieth century Victorian house.

Its vast collection of antique tools and equipment from the early days of railroading is dedicated to showing how the railroading industry, along with the lumber and mining industries, helped boost Northern Ontario’s economy.

Both private and self-guided tours are available. The Northern Ontario Railroad Museum & Heritage Centre is open daily between May and the end of August.

Location: 26 Bloor Street, Capreol

North Bay Museum

A former Canadian Pacific Railway heritage train station was restored and converted into the North Bay Museum to continue telling the story of its role in Canada’s railway history.

The museum offers comprehensive programming and hands-on, interactive exhibits for people of all ages. Kids will especially enjoy the mini heritage train ride.

The North Bay Museum is open year-round on Wednesday to Friday.

Location: 100 Ferguson Street, North Bay

Lake of the Woods Railroaders Museum

Discover the history of railroading in Kenora at the Lake of the Woods Railroaders Museum.

A large collection of preserved railway items and memorabilia gives visitors the opportunity to learn about its fascinating history. The most popular exhibit is a large model railroad setup that features running trains across scenes from all over Canada.

The museum is open during the summer, Wednesday to Sunday.

Location: Off of Highway 17, Kenora

Related content

Kid-friendly museums in Ontario

Helicopter, aircraft and hot air balloon tours

Sightseeing boat tours and cruises in Ontario

Last updated:  May 9, 2024

Looking for Ontario travel advice?

Our experts are here to help you plan your perfect trip. Call or book today.

Now taking online reservations for the 2024 season!

AGAWA CANYON TOUR TRAIN

Train rides through northern ontario.

NEXT STOP: AGAWA TRAIN ADVENTURE

• Special Event!
• Users All ages
• Hour Glass 10 hours

Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre and Entomica Insectarium Train Tour

August 6th + 22nd only! The Northern Ontario landscape you will traverse is supported by some of the oldest geology on earth, the Great Canadian Shield, and is home to unique flora and fauna.

One-Day Scenic Rail Adventure

Join us on one of the most popular train tours in North America! Climb aboard the 10-hour Agawa Canyon Tour Train for a Northern Ontario travel experience that will leave you breathless.

ONE-DAY SCENIC RAIL ADVENTURE

About the agawa canyon train.

Thank you for a great season! Agawa Canyon Tour train rides will resume August 1st, 2024. We look forward to riding with you soon!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Looking for accommodations and attractions in our area.

Please visit Attractions in Sault Ste Marie site for more information!

Is there a gift shop?

Yes, the gift shop is located on the train and open during season.

Are pets allowed on the train?

No pets are permitted except certified service animals.

Will food and beverages be available for purchase?

The tour train will have a snack and beverage canteen   on   the cars during each ride. US and CAD cash and credit cards will be accepted.

Are there restrooms on the train and in the canyon?

Yes, restrooms are available on the train and at the canyon.

Is internet or Wi-Fi available on the train?

Unfortunately, not at this time.

Can I bring a bag or purse on the train?

Small purses or bags are allowed onboard. Bigger items like luggage are prohibited.

Is the train wheelchair accessible?

Yes. For more information, please email [email protected] or click here for more information.

When should I arrive to board the train?

The doors open one hour before .

Is parking available on-site?

Yes, free parking is available at the depot.

What, if any, COVID-19 protocols are in place?

Travel rules and regulations are always changing. Tour participants are encouraged to contact Health Canada for more information. For additional requirements related to Border Crossing, visit  Border Crossing – Tourism Sault Ste. Marie (saulttourism.com)

Is a passport or Enhanced Driver’s License needed for entry into Canada?

Americans from the states of Washington, Minnesota, South Dakota, Michigan, New York, or Vermont may elect to use an Enhanced Identification Card or Enhanced Driver’s License. For other non-Canadians, a passport is required for entry into Canada.

What other attractions are at Agawa Canyon Park?

There are several trails and a lookout at Agawa Canyon Park. Climb 300 stairs and gravel paths for a panoramic view above the tracks on the Lookout Trail. Other nearby attractions include Black Beaver Falls and Bridal Veil Falls.

Where does the train depart from?

The station depot is located at 87 Huron St in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada P6A 5P4.

How do I contact the Agawa Canyon Tour Train?

For additional questions, please email [email protected] or use the contact form on this page .

When will tickets be available for purchase?

Reserve your tickets online here!

THE BEST WAY TO SEE ONTARIO!

This was an all-day tour and you must remember water and eats. A great box lunch is available for an extra charge and is sufficient to share. The train trip was great and even saw a bear in the wild. The hikes took you to remarkable scenes. I would highly recommend this tour.

We had a beautiful ride up and back. People were friendly and the scenery was fantastic. We enjoyed the informative talk on the way north. The park was very nice. We enjoyed a picnic lunch by the river, then hiked to see the falls.

Very nice train ride and the train was well equiped for some disable travellers. The points of interests were announced prior to getting there so you can have your camera ready and position yourself to take the photos. The walk in the canyon is very refreshing and to have the view of the train when it makes the turn going or returning is totally awesome.

We had a great day on the Agawa Canyon Train ride today. Met some amazing people. The staff were all extremely friendly and helpful. The scenery was spectacular and when we stopped we had a picnic and a beautiful walk to see the falls.

Had a relaxing train tour through the countryside on the way to Agawa Canyon. We bought lunch items on the train with the provided vouchers before arriving at the canyon so we could enjoy a picnic there. Had a nice scenic walk along the river to the Bridal Veil and Black Beaver Falls after our lunch. Trails were well maintained. Clean restrooms at the canyon as well as on the train. Want to note the friendly helpful staff especially Mary who was of great assistance in helping with my lost sunglasses. Lots of historical commentary on the area during the trip.

We did this stop while doing the Lake Superior Circle tour. It was a great way to see the wilderness of Ontario. The staff was very helpful and was a beautiful area!

ALGOMA – SOLEMN LAND 2021 E BOOK

Spectacular Algoma and Montreal River landscapes that following in the famed Group of Seven’s footsteps – all work created at or near Mile 92, Algoma Central Railway and Agawa Tour Train.

The 11 Best Canadian Train Trips

By Michael Kaminer and Matt Ortile

Canada is second only to Russia when it comes to land mass, which means seeing the country's vast wilderness can be overwhelming. Luckily, Canadian train trips criss-cross most of it, and these rail journeys allow you to take in some of the world's most spectacular scenery, stress-free. Just imagine: the nation's vistas unfolding before you slowly (or swiftly, depending on your chariot) while you remain in the comfort of your seat. On top of that, some of the Canada's most remote—and beautiful—spots lack road access, so a train ride may also be the only way to visit. All the more reason to climb on board .

Read on to learn more about 11 of the most beautiful Canadian train trips you can take across the Great White North, as well as some recommendations for where to stay at the beginning or at the end of your railroad adventure. (And for more fabulous train rides, check out the results of Condé Nast Traveler 's Readers' Choice Awards 2023 to see which trains our readers voted the best in the world .)

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date. All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Via Rail’s Winnipeg to Churchill

This 1,054-mile trip north feels more interplanetary than provincial, whisking you from urban Winnipeg to the tundras of Churchill , known as the polar bear capital of the world. Accessible by plane or train only, it’s also prime turf for beluga whale-watching , and possibly the world’s best perch to view the northern lights. Landscapes en route are breathtaking, with stops including tiny river towns The Pas, Thompson, and Weir River. Splurge on Via’s Sleeper Plus class for access to a bed and shower.

Where to stay: In Winnipeg, check into the impressive and century-old Fort Garry Hotel , a prime example of twentieth-century châteauesque architecture, including prominent cornices and a steep sloping copper roof. In case you needed a bit more of that old-world feel to your trip.

Ontario Northland’s Polar Bear Express, Cochrane to Moosonee

Ontario is larger than France and Spain combined, but most visitors stick to its big southern cities. Embarking from tiny Cochrane—nearly 500 miles north of Toronto —the Polar Bear Express chugs five hours further north to Moosonee, so remote it lacks road access. The route mimics a path fur traders favored centuries ago, through a primeval landscape of thick forests and winding rivers. Note that reaching Cochrane involves a flight to northeastern Timmins and an overnight bus ride.

Where to stay: Break up your adventure with a night at Cedar Meadows Resort & Spa in Timmins, Ontario. The place is all about rural and cozy vibes, letting you bask in the natural beauty of nearby Gillies Lake Park and Hollinger Park.

Agawa Canyon Tour Train, Ontario

It’s only accessible by trail or rail, which makes Agawa Canyon Wilderness Park near Sault Sainte-Marie such a thrill to visit. Hop on and off this 90-minute ride as you pass four dramatic waterfalls and a trail system that overflows with pristine natural beauty. Bonus: Beavers, the most Canadian of critters, traipse through here frequently.

Where to stay: Since this tour train takes just an hour and a half, you'll need a place to rest your head in Sault Sainte-Marie before continuing your journey. Luckily, the Delta Hotels by Marriott Sault Ste. Marie Waterfront is near the station, and offers cool views of Saint Mary's River and the United States beyond.

Royal Canadian Rockies Experience, Banff to Calgary, Alberta

Canada’s glitziest train ride is also one of its most cinematic, passing through splendid Banff and Lake Louise, along with jaw-dropping sights like Alberta’s Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, a World Heritage Site where Indigenous people hunted ruminants by enticing them to leap off a cliff. Still eager to see more? At the end of the line, you can book a helicopter trip over the Rockies for a bird's eye view.

Where to stay: In Banff, you shouldn't miss the Fairmont Banff Springs . This Scottish Baronial fortress grants you a million-dollar view of those majestic snow-dusted mountain tops, which makes the moniker “the Castle in the Rockies” all the more fitting.

Jessica Puckett

Lee Marshall

Meaghan Kenny

Via Rail’s The Canadian, Toronto to Vancouver

A single train journey can’t capture Canada’s magnificence, but this four-night/three-day adventure from Toronto to Vancouver comes close. You’ll take in prairies, lakes, peaks, valleys, hamlets, waterfalls, and, if you’re lucky, cameos by local wildlife like deer, elk, and bears. If you can, book a seat in Prestige Class—think concierge, superb meals, private lounges—for one of the most comfortable train trips you’ll ever take.

Where to stay: Once you're in Vancouver, keep the plush and casually fabulous energy going with a night or two at the dreamy Shangri-La Vancouver , where those who appreciate the subtleties of luxury travel won't be disappointed.

White Pass and Yukon Route, Yukon

Even today, building a railway through the mountains, glaciers, and gorges of Gold Rush country remains an impressive feat, let alone in 1898, when this route was first built. Survey views of the Yukon, BC, and Alaska , as your train rises a gut-churning 3,000 feet in just 20 miles to the summit of White Pass. Touring such treacherous terrain will leave you appreciating how the railway helped knit a nascent Canada together.

Where to stay: There aren't many hotel options in Skagway, Alaska, where this train journey begins. That said, there are a handful of cruises that call at this Alaskan port town, including options aboard Celebrity Cruises , so you can make this a two-for-one adventure.

Rocky Mountaineer's First Passage to the West, Western Canada

If there’s one Canadian train ride that should make your bucket list, it’s the journey on the Rocky Mountaineer from Vancouver to Banff . The whole ride is scenic, offering glimpses into the Great White North’s wildlife as well as its important Indigenous history. Thoughtful guides and storytellers onboard talk you through the locales and vistas from the comfort of your plush leather seats underneath the train cars’ glass-domed roofs. Meals here are delicious too, no matter which class of service you’re in, whether it’s SilverLeaf or GoldLeaf (though the latter’s linen-covered tables are a classy touch).

Where to stay: The Rocky Mountaineer is often spoken about in the same breath as other famous luxury train rides across the world: the Orient Express , Seven Stars Kyushu , or the Royal Scotsman . But unlike those, this isn’t a sleeper train. It travels exclusively by daylight, making the most of the scenery. At night, guests check into a hotel along the route—so your comfort throughout the journey is assured.

Train de Charlevoix, Quebec

Inaugurated in 1889, when it connected Quebec City to remote Charlevoix, this train line cruises along a glorious section of St. Lawrence coastline. Much of the scenery en route seems unchanged a century and a half later, with the mighty river on one side and lush landscapes on the other. Stops include enchanting coastal villages like Baie-St-Paul; consider splitting the journey over two days to explore. The route runs June through October.

Where to stay: Before you climb onboard the train in Quebec City, prep for your journey in old Basse-Ville (meaning “lower city”) at the boutique hotel Monsieur Jean , which offers bright and breezy digs melded with friendly Quebecois hospitality.

Via Rail, Jasper, Alberta to Prince Rupert, BC

The windows-only Dome Car on this nature-filled route offers 360-degree views of the regal Canadian Rockies. During the seven-hour train ride, you’ll also get an ocean’s worth of lakes, including beautiful Yellowhead, Lucerne, and Moose. Have more time? The train heads to coastal Prince Rupert the next morning, where whale-watching and grizzly-bear-viewing are highlights. Bonus: At the Alberta-British Columbia border, the train crosses the Continental Divide.

Where to stay: Once you're on Kaien Island and the train pulls into the port city of Prince Rupert, head for the Crest Hotel , where you can wake up to beautiful waterfront views of—what else?—Prince Rupert Harbour.

Rocky Mountaineer's Journey Through the Clouds, British Columbia and Alberta

The Canadian Rockies’ tallest peak, majestic Mount Robson, is the star of this ten-day journey from Vancouver to Calgary. But it’s hard to pick a highlight when your trip spans sights like British Columbia’s astonishing Hell’s Gate—twice the width of Niagara Falls—and Moose Lake, home to plenty of its namesake. You’ll also get a glimpse of the gargantuan Albreda Glacier, a landscape dating back eons.

Where to stay: When in Canada, you can't go wrong with a Fairmont, and the Fairmont Palliser in Calgary is a true beaut. Plus, it's sandwiched between the city's downtown and the Calgary Design District, so you'll have plenty of sightseeing options when you get off the train.

Via Rail’s The Ocean, Montreal to Halifax

Climbing north into remotest Quebec and east into New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, this aptly-named, 836-mile trip lets the wide-open spaces and clear-blue waters unfold like aqua-tinted postcards. Bonus: The Ocean is the oldest continuously running named passenger train in North America, rolling along since 1904.

Where to stay: In Montreal you've got the pick of the litter, but the stately yet modern Hotel Birks Montreal and the classically luxurious Four Seasons Montreal take the cake. Meanwhile, in Halifax, you've got the super sleek Muir, Autograph Collection in the downtown waterfront area, and the richly cozy The Pebble Bed & Breakfast in the South End for an inn-in-the-city experience.

Recommended

The Docent’s Collection

The Inn on Peaks Island

North America Travel Guide

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Win a Free Northern Ontario Gift Cooler

Share your thoughts on travel and enter to win a Northern Ontario gift cooler valued at over $2000!

• About Northern Ontario
• Canadian Canoe Culture
• Explore Indigenous Culture
• Group of Seven
• How to Fish
• Plan A Road Trip
• Plan Your Fall Trip
• Plan Your Summer Trip
• Plan Your Winter Trip
• Where to Eat
• Algoma Country
• Northeastern Ontario
• Sault Ste. Marie
• Sunset Country
• Superior Country
• Thunder Bay
• Motorcycle Touring
• Outdoor Adventures
• Snowmobiling

Train-in Vacations in Northeastern Ontario

Northeastern Ontario has an abundance of nature and outdoor opportunities, but have you ever wondered what lies in the heart of that remote and untouched wilderness? You can find out for yourself when you book a train-in outdoor getaway with Shooting Star Camp, North to Adventure's Lodge Eighty Eight or when you jump aboard the Polar Bear Express.

Whether you’re a seasoned rider of the rails or it's your first time, consider the many advantages rail transportation provides, such as a relaxed atmosphere and quality service, the enjoyment of the drive without the traffic, the beautiful back country scenery, and the affordable ride with generous baggage limits.

Travelling by rail also has a nostalgic appeal and a certain element of romance, especially since Canada was developed on the construction of steam-powered railways, the first of which opened in 1836 outside Montreal, called the Champlain and St. Lawrence Railway.

Northeastern Ontario has two popular passenger train services: Via Rail's Sudbury-White River Train and Ontario Northland's Polar Bear Express.

Via Rail’s Sudbury-White River Train

Via Rail’s Sudbury-White River Train , formerly called the Lake Superior train, but commonly known as the Budd Car (built by the Budd Car Company between July 1956 and June 1958), serves the communities between Sudbury and White River, ON, three times per week.

This diesel train operates out of downtown Sudbury, departing Saturdays, Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9 a.m., and returns from White River on Sundays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 8 a.m. You can also depart the train from the Cartier, Chapleau and Missinabie stations.

Where to stay

Shooting Star Camp is in the heart of Gogama’s remote Spanish River region. Relax in a comfortable, fully equipped outpost cabin nestled amidst towering pines and sparkling cool waters. Each cabin is individually and ideally located to provide the perfect base from which to pursue your outdoor adventures, whether that includes hiking, canoeing, kayaking or photography. The isolation of the camp also allows for big game hunting or for exploring those secluded waters to reel in a northern pike, walleye or smallmouth bass.

To stay at Shooting Star Camp, disembark the train at the Metagama mileage 40 flag stop, where you will be greeted by Shooting Star Camp staff, who will assist you with your luggage and transport you to your outpost cabin.

North to Adventure’s Lodge Eighty Eight is located within the Canadian Shield and on the remote, twenty-seven mile Esnagi Lake, which is best described as an angler’s dream for fishing walleye, northern pike, perch and whitefish. Explore the land by walking trails, where you may catch a glimpse of Northern Ontario’s wildlife, enjoy the scenery from a secluded beach or rocky shore, savour a shore lunch cooked on an open fire or simply relax in the privacy of your log cabin or suite.

To reach Lodge Eighty Eight, disembark the train at Swanson Mileage 88 flag stop, where you will be greeted by lodge staff, who will assist you in your luggage and transport you to your cabin.

How to pack for the Sudbury-White River train

Carry-on allowances are based on fare, but each passenger is allowed up to three checked articles of 50 lbs each, or less. Additional costs apply to overweight and extra baggage. Click here for full details .

All gear should be clearly labeled with your name, your party's name and the destination (lodge), and packed in sturdy containers, such as the standard 13 gal. Rubbermaid or Roughneck totes with lids, which provide adequate space, dependability and weatherproofing.

Meals are not offered onboard, so be sure to pack a lunch. To guarantee seating, book your tickets in advance through Via Rail’s website .

Ontario Northland’s Polar Bear Express Train

Ontario Northland’s Polar Bear Express train , servicing Cochrane to Moosonee, operates from Monday to Friday, and on Sundays in the summer months. Take in the sights of the northern wilderness, the glimpses of wildlife, a massive hydro dam and the wide and shallow Moose River on either side when you cross over on a bridge.

A shuttle bus from Timmins to Cochrane is also available to passengers departing Timmins at 6:30 a.m.

The town of Moosonee is nestled along the Moose River, which connects to the James Bay. The fact that it is only accessible by air and the Polar Bear Express train adds to the allure and the feeling of travelling ‘back in time.’ The nearby Moose Factory Island is also only accessible by ferry or water-taxi. Both communities served as ports for one of Ontario's oldest settlements, and was once home to the original Hudson's Bay Company, of which remnants of the first settlers are still visible.

Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate activities year-round, including fishing, hunting, camping, canoeing and wildlife viewing, such as moose, caribou and eagles. During certain times of the year, experience spectacular views of the Northern Lights, catch glimpses of seals and beluga whales in James Bay or explore the landscape by snowmobile or snowshoe.

Learn about the ever-changing landscape and wildlife of the area by taking a guided tour with Moose River Tours .

On the mainland in Moosonee, a short distance away from the train station, is the Moose River Guest House , a place to relax in a quiet setting, with clean, modern furnishings in their standard rooms, suites and two-bedroom apartment. Enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast and high-speed wireless Internet during your stay.

How to pack for the Polar Bear Express

Passengers aboard the Polar Bear Express are allowed a maximum of three checked bags, to a maximum of 50 lbs each. Additional pieces may be checked at a charge of $5. In addition, Ontario Northland provides an Express Freight service, allowing passengers to ship oversized and/or overweight baggage up to 75 lbs. Each checked piece of baggage must be visibly tagged with the name, contact information and destination of the passenger.

Passengers are allowed a maximum of one carry-on baggage, at a maximum of 50 lbs. Personal items such as purses, briefcases, laptops, strollers, car seats and diaper bags are not included in this limit. Click here for more information on the Polar Bear Express .

Visit the Ontario Northland website to book your travel itinerary and tickets .

More Adventures in The Seven—Northeastern Ontario!

Showing 'edited body' is no longer supported..

Kirsten is   a staff writer for Northeastern Ontario Tourism with a love for travel, photography and exploring the outdoors in Northern Ontario. Find out more about Northeastern Ontario by visiting www.northeasternontario.com , or email her at  [email protected] .

Recommended Articles

The Seven's Best Hikes, Biking Trails and Lakes

7 best spots to check out in the seven.

Bring Your Fam!

Time to Unwind: 6 Spa Havens to Discover In The Seven

5 Amazing Places to SUP in Northeastern Ontario

5 amazing bike rides to discover, northern lights in northeastern ontario.

Northeastern Ontario's Best Pride Festivals

Fish for one of the World's Rarest Species of Trout

An Insider's Guide to Manitoulin Island

Search northeastern ontario.

A Small Museum That Tells a Big Story

Ride The Dirty Seven: An Epic Adventure Motorcycle Route

Chilling in Cochrane

Manitoulin Island Oasis

An Art Lover’s Weekend in Sudbury

Nipissing Ice Fishing Girls Trip

Enjoy Fresh Fish in Historic Digs at Purvis Fish & Chips in Gore Bay

Discover Village Noel Temiskaming in 2023

Manitoulin Island Magic: A Guide to Gore Bay

Spectres of the past: a ghost town field trip.

Discover This Provincial Park That's NOT Killarney But Just As Cool

A Weekender's Guide to Haunted Cobalt

Agawa Train

‘It will take you away and leave you breathless.’ 

There are many words that can be used to describe Northern Ontario’s rugged beauty: awe-inspiring, astonishing and inspirational are just a few. There are just as many opportunities to experience and explore these incredible landscapes on a trip to Sault Ste. Marie. Climb aboard the one-day Agawa Canyon Tour Train for a Northern Ontario travel experience that will leave you breathless.

Tickets for the 2024 season are available now for tours August 1st – October 13th. Book your tickets here!

Book Your 2024 Train Tickets Here!

Summer in the soo, miss marie sault locks tours, five ways to enjoy fall in sault ste marie, what to expect on your one-day adventure.

The train departs at 8am sharp from the new train station in the Canal District , downtown Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. Be sure to arrive at least 30 minutes before, free parking is available next to the train station. Then the train doors will close and your one-day adventure to the Agawa Canyon will begin!

Sit back and enjoy the 114 mile excursion north, which truly showcases the rugged beauty of Algoma, and the Canadian Shield. At the Agawa Canyon, enjoy a 90-minute stop, where you can take in the sights, including a 30-minute roundtrip lookout hike and a walk along the canyon to Bridal Veil Falls. A conductor’s whistle will signal “all aboard” , then it’s back on the train, to return to Sault Ste. Marie by around 5:30pm.

The train and Canyon Park are both wheelchair accessible and certified service animals are allowed. The train ride itself is restful, with comfortable seats and large windows to enjoy the view. Restrooms are available on board for your comfort. Interpretive programming is delivered by wireless headsets in English, French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Mandarin for the train portion of the journey.

So put your phones and tablets away, (Wifi is not available on the train) sit back, relax and enjoy beautiful scenery on this one of a kind train ride. 

THE TRAIN STATION

Agawa canyon tour train, 9 facts to know about the agawa canyon tour train, the journey.

As you settle into your comfortable coach, traces of city life soon fade away as the Northern Ontario wilderness begins to unfold outside the windows. The mixed forests of the Canadian Shield open up as you skirt the shores of northern lakes, rivers and cross towering trestles. Set eyes on the same rugged landscapes and majestic views that inspired the Group of Seven to create some of Canada’s most notable works of art.

As you head north you’ll pass logging roads, quiet holiday camps and intriguing sign posts. Then at mile 102, just after a glimpse of Lake Superior, the train starts its descent into the canyon. As the rail line hugs the top of the canyon wall, you’ll descend 500 feet over the next 10 miles to the floor of the Agawa Canyon, created more than 1.2 billion years ago by faulting and widened and reshaped by the last ice age that retreated 10,000 years ago.

AGAWA CANYON PARK​

As the train pulls to a stop at mile 114, you’ll have an hour and a half to experience the jewel of the tour – Agawa Canyon Park, which is only accessible by rail. There are plenty of picnic areas for those wishing to have lunch during the stopover or you may want stretch your legs and go explore!

Enjoy scenic walks on graveled trails leading to the famous Bridal Veil Falls or the lesser know Black Beaver Falls, or experience the invigorating climb up over 300 stairs to the breathtaking lookout, perched 250 feet above the canyon floor. 

Experience The Group of Seven

Sault Ste. Marie played an important role in bringing together Canada’s greatest art collective, the Group of Seven. The group traveled to the city many times, capturing the landscapes with their beautiful brush strokes. 

The Agawa Canyon Tour Train will pass several sites captured by the Group of Seven, including The Solemn Land  (based on Montreal River Harbour) and  Algoma Waterfall  (based on Bridal Veil Falls), by J.E.H MacDonald. The original sketch of The Solemn Land, painted after MacDonald first visited the area in 1918, is part of the permanent collection at the  Art Gallery of Algoma . 

When the train stops within the Agawa Canyon, hike towards Bridal Veil Falls where you’ll see the cascading tiers of water which inspired multiple sketches and paintings by members of the Group of Seven including Lawren Harris and the aforementioned J.E.H. MacDonald.

EXPERIENCE THE GROUP OF SEVEN IN SAULT STE. MARIE

The solemn land, montreal river harbour, other things to do in sault ste. marie.

A train ride on the famous Agawa Canyon Train will be a memorable experience, and why not extend your stay and see some of the other great attractions, trails, museums, restaurants and other things that Sault Ste. Marie has to offer? Check out these suggestions below or browse the website and discover so many fun things to do here. 

Exclusive offer! Once you book your Agawa Canyon Tour Train ticket, you will receive a promotional code in your confirmation email giving you 10% off at Miss Marie Sault Lock Tours!

So visit Sault Ste. Marie and join us on one of the most popular train tours in North America. 2024’s tour season is for August 1 through October 12, 2024. More details on pricing and purchasing tickets are available on the Agawa Train website  or call 1-844-246-9458.

MISS MARIE LOCK TOUR BOAT

Bushplane museum, visit the ermatinger clergue national historic site, lake superior coastal drive, climb robertson cliffs, planning your stay.

Every great trip starts with a great plan. Let us help! Whether you are looking for a Northern Ontario outdoor adventure experience, a ride on the scenic Agawa Tour Train, or just a long weekend getaway in Sault Ste. Marie, here are the tools to help you make that plan.

EAT & DRINK

Connect with Us

Eastern Canada Train Tours

An ideal way to explore the Eastern provinces is by train. Ontario, Quebec and the Atlantic provinces are full of history and culture. Discover the buzzing food and art scene of Montreal; the world-class museums of Toronto; the cobbled streets of Quebec City; and the quaint coastal villages of Nova Scotia. These Eastern Canada train tours will give you plenty of photos to share and stories to tell.

Table of contents

Best canadian east coast train trips, canada’s east coast train experiences, facts about the canadian east coast, places to visit in canada’s east coast, 5 reasons to take an east coast train vacation, frequently asked questions.

Don’t miss the highlights and hidden gems of this region. Our team of travel experts at Canadian Train Vacations can help you plan your perfect trip to Eastern Canada. We customize your itinerary to suite your interests, tastes and budget.   

Speak to a Canadian Train Vacation Advisor to discuss all your options.

Keep reading or chat with one of our local travel experts. We’re passionate about Canada and can help you at any stage of your vacation planning.

Canada Coast to Coast by Train

The Coast to Coast is the ultimate Canadian trip by rail and includes East Coast train rides. You’ll see the country’s top highlights, including Peggy’s Cove, Niagara Falls and Lake Louise. This trip includes a trip on VIA Rail, in a sleeper cabin, and on the Rocky Mountaineer.   

The route goes between Vancouver and Halifax. It can be done in either reverse direction.  

Miles covered on train : 3,240  

Days on train : 5  

Nights on train : 4

Canada Eastern Rail Classic

This East Coast train vacation takes you from Montreal to Halifax (or in reverse). It includes a night on VIA Rail’s Ocean train in a sleeper cabin. You’ll have time to explore both Montreal and Quebec City, as well as Halifax. Hotel options include the historic Chateau Le Frontenac in Quebec City. While in Halifax, you can take a day trip to Peggy’s Cove to see Canada’s most-photographed lighthouse.   

Miles covered on train : 835   

Days on train : 1  

Nights on train : 1  

Montreal and Quebec City by Rail

Spend time in two of Canada's most sophisticated cities. This five-day itinerary takes you between Montreal and Quebec City. Optional excursions include walking and food tours, dining at award-winning restaurants, and visiting world-class museums.   

Miles covered on train : 144 miles  

Days on train : 0.5 days  

Nights on train : 0 nights  

Download a brochure

Get inspired with sample itineraries, train information, route maps, and travel advice from our local experts.

Whether you are looking for a quick week-long getaway to see the region's highlights, or a longer excursion into Canada's history and culture, we have the ideal Eastern Canada train trip itinerary for you.  

VIA Rail is Canada’s main passenger train and connects Vancouver to Halifax with four major train routes. Stops you can explore include Vancouver, Jasper, Winnipeg, Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec and Halifax. The trains run year-round, but there are special presentations and activities during the summer, including live music, wine tastings and history talks. Depending on the route, they offer overnight sleeper train experiences.  

Sleeper Train

There are two train routes in Canada which allow you to sleep on the train, both through VIA Rail. Travel between Vancouver and Toronto on The Canadian with stops in Jasper or Winnipeg. Or travel the East Coast of Canada on the Ocean train. Both sleeper train routes are available all year long. Some sleeper trains in Canada are equipped with special panoramic viewing cars to provide you with the best view of the scenery day or night. 

The Canadian Train

Hopping a ride on VIA Rail’s Canadian Train is the ultimate way to discover how big and beautiful Canada is. The Canadian was the flagship of the Canadian Pacific Rail line when it first began service in 1955. Now, connecting Toronto to Vancouver, the Canadian carries you from the forests of Ontario, through the sweeping fields of the Prairies and past the dramatic snow-capped Rocky Mountains. 

The Ocean Train

Onboard VIA Rail’s Ocean Train you'll travel from the French speaking province of Quebec, through the blissful backdrop of lighthouses and seascapes in the Canadian maritime provinces of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia before reaching your final destination of Halifax. As you relax onboard, you'll see tiny communities along your route, representing French Canadian, Acadian, Celtic and English heritage.

• The first provinces to form Canada are in the East: New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Quebec, and Ontario.   
• The East Coast is one of the best places in the world to see whales. In the summer months and early fall, Minke, Humpback, Finback and North Atlantic Right Whales can be spotted in the waters.   
• The major cities of Eastern Canada include Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, and Quebec City. Ottawa is the country’s capital.
• The Bay of Fundy in New Brunswick is home to the highest tides in the world. You can also see Hopewell Rocks, unique rock formations known as Flowerpots.     
• The province of Ontario is home to more than 250,000 lakes. This includes some of the Great Lakes, which are on or near the Canada/U.S. border. Toronto is on one of the Great Lakes, Lake Ontario, and it is the perfect spot for sailing and sight-seeing cruises.   
• Quebec is home to some of the oldest buildings in Canada that are still standing. They date from the early 1600s.    

#1 Travel tip: Find the best seafood

Many places on Canada’s East Coast are famous for their seafood. Take the sleeper train to Halifax, Nova Scotia, and try world-class fish and chips, lobster, and scallops.

Download our Brochures and Mini Guides

There are so many great Canadian experiences you can pack into one trip when you explore Eastern Canada. From the humbling power of Niagara Falls, to the endless hiking trails and scenic viewpoints along the St. Lawrence River, you'll want to squeeze plenty of side trips into your train vacation. 

• Niagara Falls : Take a boat tour that will bring you so close to the enormous, thundering falls that you'll feel the cool, misty spray on your face! 
• CN Tower : Admire the twinkling lights of the city from the viewing platform in this iconic building in the Toronto skyline or have dinner with a view at the revolving restaurant. 
• St. Lawrence River : see the gorgeous historic architecture of Quebec City and Montreal and Canada’s gorgeous trees while on a boat cruise on this impressive waterway.  

#2 Travel tip: Spend time in the Niagara region

If you’re travelling through Ontario, in addition to seeing Niagara Falls, you could explore the wineries nearby and visit the quaint town of Niagara-on-the-Lake.

From pristine national parks and lively cities to historic French-Canadian chateaus, there's so much to discover in the heart of Canada.  

• Friendly hospitality : Residents are known for their laid back, welcoming friendliness, so you'll be greeted with kind smiles and friendship.  
• Diverse landscapes : From the limestone caves in Bruce Peninsula and sparkling lakes of Ontario's cottage country to the deep forests of Quebec, you'll enjoy unspoiled wilderness.  
• Some of Canada's finest cities : Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, and Quebec City are packed with world-class museums, historic architecture, and trendy restaurants.
• Relax in comfort : Stretch out in your spacious berth or sit back in the dining car and enjoying a gourmet meal for an enjoyable train trip.
• Canadian history : Stroll down the cobblestone streets of Quebec City, admire elegant Victorian architecture, and explore the Rideau Canal National Historic Site in Ottawa.  

What Our Customers Say

Many thanks to you both for making this lovely trip a reality.

Other that the unsatisfactory hotel in Montreal, the tour was wonderful! The dinner at the Bonaparte Restaurant helped us forget the uncomfortable room. Special highlights of the t...   read more

Pay and John

Fresh Tracks Canada was outstanding

The vacation was great! Fresh Tracks Canada was outstanding, from hotels to limousine service to guided tours, and we had plenty of time to enjoy the cities on our own. It was trul...   read more

Donna and Richard

The tours were wonderful

We loved the trip! The train ride was lovely with better food and smoother ride than Amtrak. The Canadian people were charming and helpful and the food was exquisite. We loved Plac...   read more

Mark and Kathy

We could not have been more satisfied with our trip!

Wonderful planning and attention to detail. We didn't have to worry about a thing. Everything was organized down to the last detail. Everyone who was to meet us was there ahead of...   read more

Roberta and Ashley

Why book with Canadian Train Vacations?

We take care of all the details

You want to relax and enjoy your trip, not get overwhelmed by the planning. Let us make all of the bookings for you, including rail tickets, hotels, excursions and activities, meals and transfers.

Independent travel with expert support

Enjoy local expertise and guidance with a personalized itinerary. Your preferences and needs are our priority. We take care of you from the moment you land until the moment you leave.

Get help when you need it

You’ll receive the inside scoop before you even leave home. And you can relax during your vacation because we’re only a phone call away if you have any questions while you’re in Canada.

Where is East Coast Canada? 

Canada’s East Coast includes Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and PEI. These provinces are along the Atlantic coast of the country.

When is the best time to visit East Coast of Canada?

The Fall months are the best time to visit Eastern Canada. Along with mild weather and reduced crowds, the vibrant autumn colours are a major attraction.

What cities are on the East Coast of Canada?

Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, and Quebec City are the most populous cities in Eastern Canada. Coastal cities include Halifax and St. John’s.

Can you take a train trip on the East Coast of Canada?

Yes, VIA’s Ocean train runs along the East Coast of Canada. This sleeper train travels between Halifax and Montreal.

About the author: Hannah Poaros-McDermott is the Senior Content Coordinator at Fresh Tracks Canada. She has previously written for and shared her local knowledge in Where Vancouver, Where Whistler, and Essential Vancouver magazines. Originally from the UK, Hannah travelled...   Read more

Explore More Tours

Discuss your Canadian train vacation with a local travel expert

Or call us toll free

Current promotions

Sign up for special offers, monthly Canadian Insider tips, and vacation inspiration.

Ontario's most breathtaking train ride takes you through a canyon full of fall colours

Latest Videos

With the arrival of  fall colours just weeks away  in Ontario, now is the perfect time to plan a one-of-a-kind experience to embrace the beauty of the season.

The Agawa Canyon Tour Train , which runs from September 17 - October 10, is just days away from its peak season, transporting its guests through Northern Ontario's brilliant fall foliage.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Katherine Palumbo (@explore.ontario)

The tour starts in downtown Sault Ste. Marie before embarking on the 114-mile excursion. You'll wind through the endless forests of the Canadian Shield, lakes, rivers, waterfalls, and finally, the majestic Agawa Canyon - the same landscapes that inspired Canada's famous Group of Seven.

During your ride, you can listen to GPS-triggered commentary on the comfortable coach, which will share information about the area's rich history, including that of the Ojibway, fur traders, and explorers.

Once you arrive at Agawa Canyon Park , you'll have the chance to disembark and explore for 90 minutes. Stretch your legs, enjoy a picnic, visit the park's three waterfalls, or head to the lookout for a panoramic view.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by NatashaTor (@natalliahergott)

After your adventure in the park, climb back aboard the train to make the 4.5-hour return trip to Sault Ste. Marie.

Tours begin at 8 a.m. and end at 6 p.m. The entire experience takes a total of ten hours, so be prepared to allocate an entire day for it.

Highly lauded as one of the most unique and incredible fall experiences in Canada , tickets for the 2023 season went on sale earlier this year after an outpouring of support and enthusiasm last fall — and they're already selling out, especially on weekends.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Outdoors Canada (@outdoors.canada)

Tickets for adults run for $140 from August 3 to September 15, and $155 from September 16 to October 15. The train ride runs from Thursday to Sunday during the summer, but offers daily excursions throughout the peak season.

You can book your tickets directly on the website , and check the calendar for real-time availability. 

Agawa Canyon Tour Train

Join the conversation Load comments

Latest in Travel

Ontario just got a stunning new $45 million lakefront museum

How to spend a weekend in and around Ontario's 'Amazon river'

Customers just ranked Air Canada dismally out of all airlines in North America

More flights now using Toronto airport's weirdest terminal you may not know about

Pilots land at Toronto airport amid blinding fog in this nail-biting video

40 essential small towns in Ontario you need to visit at least once

Toronto just got a new premium daily bus service to Niagara Falls

Ontario's first-ever lakefront Nordic spa is opening this summer

Reign Recap: Ontario Reign Go Up 2-0 With Dominating Game Two Victory

The Reign Train keeps on rolling, defeating the Abbotsford Canucks 4-0 in game two of round two.

It was an important game two for the Ontario Reign since they have to travel up north to Abbotsford for the last three games of the series.

Ontario capitalized on their first power play of the night. A costly turnover by Cole McWard allowed TJ Tynan to feed Akil Thomas from behind the net, who beat Zach Sawchenko in tight for the early lead.

Charles Hudon then gave the Reign some insurance a few minutes later. The Reign forced a turnover leading to Hudon streaking down the middle of the ice with no defenders near.

Abbotsford was a couple of ticks behind Ontario in the first period, they just simply could not keep up with their pace.

The Canucks put some pep to their step in the second, but without reward. Erik Portillo made a string of great saves in the final five minutes of the period, keeping Abbotsford scoreless.

Like the second period, the third was tightly contested again. Abbotsford was playing desperate, but Ontario was not letting anything get past their blue line.

With 5:26 left to play in the final period, Andre Lee shot a long wrist shot from the middle of the zone, sneaking past Sawchenko.

Tyler Madden would twist the knife, scoring an empty net goal with 3:06 remaining, sealing the win for Ontario.

Here are my three takeaways from the game

Erik Portillo Pitches A Shutout

The six-foot-six Swede has been nothing short of dominant in his first four AHL playoff games.

Portillo’s playoff statistics look like video game numbers. 0.75 GAA, 105 SV, 108 SA, .972 SV%.

Not bad for your first professional playoff tournament. He now adds a shutout and another win to his resume.

His two spectacular saves at the end of the second period were particularly impressive.

The first save came with 3:47 remaining in the middle frame, robbing Max Sasson with his left pad, who was wide open in the slot.

His second save happened with less than a minute left, as Tristen Nielsen set up Sheldon Dries on the doorstep, but Portillo again kicked out his right pad, keeping the game scoreless.

These two saves were the best looks Abbotsford got all game, and were game-changing, to say the least.

Portillo’s 29-for-29 performance earned him a deserving first star of the game, and that had to feel good with Kings management in attendance.

Physicality Paying Off

Sturm mentioned in his postgame interviews that he thinks the team has surprised not only Abbotsford, but the Bakersfield Condors too, with their “different style of play.”

There have been some questions on why Sturm would scratch guys like Francesco Pinelli and Martin Chromiak, two guys who played consistently all year.

As mentioned in previous articles, Sturm has gone with more physicality and hard hitters rather than skill and speed in the playoffs, and so far, it has paid off.

When asked about their extra physicality, Thomas also brought up how he feels like the Reign “bully teams mentally”. 

“Whether it’s in a scrum, or Hodgson throwing big hits or Doty getting in guys' faces. Guys don’t want to play against us, and I think it's good knowing that.” Thomas said.

Not only are the bottom six getting into the other team's heads, but they are also putting up points.

In all four playoff games, the bottom six have lit the lamp. Not only are teams trying to not get blasted against the boards, but they are also struggling to keep them off the scoresheet.

Give Tynan His Flowers

TJ Tynan has become sort of an unsung hero throughout this whole season, and it has transitioned into the playoffs as well.

Tynan led the Reign in points this season, with 66, including 57 assists. So far in the playoffs, he is tied with Brandt Clarke for second on the Reign with four points.

The captain has been a glue to this team the entire year, finding the open skater, and playing really smart hockey.

A perfect example of Tynan’s play is the first goal of this game. Tynan creates a turnover behind the net, then immediately turns and finds Thomas out in front.

There is a reason why he is on the first line and power play unit, he creates opportunities out of nothing.

He is not the flashiest guy and does not score a lot of goals, but without Tynan, this team would not be where they are right now.

The Ontario Reign will travel across the border to finish the series up in Abbotsford, starting with a potential clinching game three on Wednesday night.