Discover Muskoka: Plan Your Trip

plan your trip ontario northland

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plan your trip ontario northland

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plan your trip ontario northland

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plan your trip ontario northland

Ontario Northland

Are you planning a trip to Muskoka ? Let Ontario Northland take the wheel while you relax and catch up on your favorite TV show, read a book, study, work, or simply enjoy the scenic views from your window! Their modern and dependable service offers all the comfort, reliability, and breathtaking views you could ask for. The bus makes stops in Gravenhurst , Bracebridge , and Huntsville , so you can easily get to your destination.

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Find Cheap Bus Tickets From Ontario Northland

Easily compare and book your next trip with Busbud

Ontario Northland

Book cheap Ontario Northland Bus tickets online, find schedules, prices, station locations, services, promotions and deals.

Ontario Northland popular routes and schedules

Travel by bus with ontario northland and busbud.

As an official partner, Busbud helps you find, compare and book Ontario Northland bus tickets. You can easily find the fastest, cheapest and best bus travel option for you. Ontario Northland  provides comfortable and reliable bus transportation to over 275,000 passengers each year.

Founded in 1902, the Ontario Northland organization built the infrastructure to support the development of northeastern Ontario. Over the years, Ontario Northland has adapted to meet the needs of the communities they serve and continues to lead the transportation industry in Northern Ontario.

Busbud has been an official Ontario Northland partner since 2017. We have been working together to help our customers find the best bus travel options for them in Northern Ontario. Ontario Northland’s network is directly linked with other Canadian operators’ networks, giving customers access to safe, efficient and reliable bus transportation between cities, villages and everything in between.

Ontario Northland

Amenities on Ontario Northland buses

  • Air conditioning
  • Power outlets

Ontario Northland's Coverage in Numbers

  • Daily Departures 1650
  • Countries 1
  • Routes 2337

Ontario Northland Bus classes

Ontario northland user reviews.

4.2 out of 5 stars

User reviews from travelers who booked their tickets with Ontario Northland

Ratings and Reviews (6000)

Judy Ann S.

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Ontario Northland FAQ

What are the boarding requirements with ontario northland.

To board the bus, you must provide an Ontario Northland reference number and photo identification matching the information provided during booking. Presenting a physical or electronic ticket is optional .

How can I cancel and refund my Ontario Northland bus ticket?

All Ontario Northland tickets are refundable up to 24 hours before your scheduled departure time. Simply log into your Busbud account and cancel the ticket and you will receive an 85% refund directly on the card or PayPal account used to book the ticket.

How can I exchange my Ontario Northland bus ticket?

You can exchange your ticket directly at the station before your original departure time . Alterations to the original itinerary are subject to a 15% fee.

How many bags can I take on Ontario Northland buses?

You are allowed 1 checked bag up to 23 kg (50 lbs) and 1 carry-on weighing no more than 7 kg (15 lbs). Ontario Northland will check 2 additional pieces of baggage at $15 each .

Can I take my bike on Ontario Northland buses?

Ontario Northland accepts bicycles with an additional fee of $20 +tx per trip. Bicycles will need to be packed in a bike box. Bike boxes are available for purchase, at an additional cost of $25 + tx at selected stations. Please call 1-800-461-8558 to confirm bike box availability.

Is there wifi on Ontario Northland buses?

Yes! There is wifi available on Ontario Northland. Stay connected all throughout your trip.

What are the services on Ontario Northland buses?

All Ontario Northland buses are equipped with air conditioning, an on-board restroom and reclining seats with headrests.

Why choose Busbud?

The best way to book bus and train tickets.

Busbud is a bus and train search tool - we include Ontario Northland routes, schedules and prices in our searches along with many other train and bus companies. You can compare prices, amenities and times by searching for a route. If you find a suitable trip, you can go ahead and get your Ontario Northland ticket from us. Note that train tickets sell out, Ontario Northland and other operators generally charge a lot more for last-minute tickets or for tickets bought in person.

Ontario Northland Popular Routes, Destinations and Stations

Top ontario northland bus lines.

  • Toronto to Ottawa $37
  • Ottawa to Toronto $37
  • Greater Sudbury to Toronto $70
  • Toronto to Greater Sudbury $68
  • Toronto to Winnipeg $237
  • Winnipeg to Toronto $219
  • North Bay to Toronto $66
  • Toronto to North Bay $66
  • Toronto to Barrie $23
  • Greater Sudbury to Ottawa $69
  • Toronto to Huntsville $48
  • Ottawa to Greater Sudbury $69
  • Thunder Bay to Toronto $178
  • Toronto to Sault Ste. Marie $110
  • Barrie to Toronto $23
  • Toronto to Thunder Bay $179
  • Sault Ste. Marie to Toronto $110
  • Timmins to Toronto $110
  • Toronto to Timmins $111
  • Huntsville to Toronto $48

Top Ontario Northland Destinations

  • Ontario Northland to Toronto
  • Ontario Northland Ottawa
  • Ontario Northland to Greater Sudbury
  • Ontario Northland North Bay
  • Ontario Northland to Barrie
  • Ontario Northland Thunder Bay
  • Ontario Northland to Winnipeg
  • Ontario Northland Timmins
  • Ontario Northland to Sault Ste. Marie
  • Buses to Orillia
  • Buses to Vaughan
  • Buses to Huntsville
  • Buses to Bracebridge
  • Buses to Pembroke
  • Buses to Parry Sound
  • Buses to Kenora
  • Buses to Kirkland Lake
  • Buses to Cochrane
  • Buses to Gravenhurst
  • Buses to New Liskeard

Top Ontario Northland Stations and Locations

  • Barrie Bus Terminal
  • Union Station Bus Terminal
  • VIA Rail Station
  • Sudbury Health Sciences North
  • Sudbury Bus Terminal
  • Sherbrook St - HSC - University
  • Southdale Mall
  • North Bay Bus Station
  • Transit Terminal
  • Allandale Waterfront GO
  • Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre
  • Lakehead University
  • Happy Time Tours
  • Kenora Bus Depot
  • Lake of the Woods Hospital

Ontario Northland most popular airports and destinations

  • Toronto to Barrie Bus Terminal
  • Huntsville to Pearson Toronto Airport
  • Barrie Bus Terminal to North Bay
  • Powassan to Pearson Toronto Airport
  • Bracebridge to Pearson Toronto Airport

Other local bus companies

FlixBus

Interested in more? Receive travel deals, trip reminders and other updates by email!

plan your trip ontario northland

Often called the “Gateway of the North,” the city of North Bay sits on the shore of Lake Nipissing. The city is also located near Trout Lake, Otter Lake and Lake Nosbonsing, each with its own unique features.

With such an abundance of fresh water, the city is a mecca for is a playground for anglers, with countless fishing opportunities to be found within minutes of downtown North Bay.

The city is also home to a ski resort, Laurentian Ski Hill, fine dining options, museums and cultural centres such as the North Bay Museum , which is located in a historic railway station.

Map of North Bay

Where is North Bay?

The city of North Bay is located in the northeastern part of Ontario on the shore of Lake Nipissing. The city is about four hours’ drive north of the Greater Toronto Area and four hours’ drive west of Ottawa.

The North Bay area is best explored by car, although Ontario Northland provides some bus service to the city. North Bay can also be reached by air, with limited flight services through North Bay Jack Garland Airport .

View North Bay on Google Maps

Things to do in North Bay

Hit the slopes.

Located minutes from downtown North Bay, Laurentian Ski Hill offers six family-friendly ski runs, along with a terrain park for those looking for action in the air or on the rails.

Watch a play or a performance

Open since 1929, the historic Capitol Centre theatre in downtown North Bay stages plays, musicals, movies and more. Check the schedule to see what’s on and make a night of it.

Hike to a waterfall

Situated in a lush forest, the Duchesnay Falls trails offer visitors a peaceful backdrop for a relaxing afternoon. In the winter, the trails can be traversed on cross-country skis.

Go on a fishing trip

In North Bay, fishing is a way of life. Anglers will find opportunities all year long, including bungalow rentals for ice fishing . Fish for northern pike, burbot, walleye and bass.

Camp in the backcountry

Pack your camping gear and explore the diverse landscapes of Widdifield Forest Provincial Park . The park covers 2,170 hectares and is located about 20 kilometres from North Bay.

Take a trail to the waterfront

Connecting the waterfront to various green spaces around North Bay, the Kate Pace Way offers 12 kilometres of paved trail that’s perfect for walking, biking and rollerblading.

Social Media links

For more trip ideas, visit the city’s tourism website or social media channels.  

Articles and itineraries

Get ideas and inspiration for your next trip.

A person kayaking on the water during a sunset.

4-7-day Ontario road trip: Parry Sound to Northeastern Ontario

View of the thick wilderness, pristine water and a remote lodge on Lake of the Woods from above

Top 10 large fishing lakes in Ontario

  • Read more Top 10 large fishing lakes in Ontario

Two smiling adults and two children walk across snow in ski boots while holding skis.

Beginner's guide to downhill skiing in Ontario

  • Read more Beginner's guide to downhill skiing in Ontario

Points of interest

Discover more highlights this city has to offer.

Chief Commanda II

Dionne quints museum, laurentian ski hill.

A snowboarder and skiier share a chairlift to the top of the mountain

North Bay Heritage Railway & Carousel

North bay museum.

An interior view of the North Bay Museum. There information boards along the walls, a dislpay case to the left and stairs in the middle of the room. There are model planes hanging from the ceiling.

Last updated:  March 30, 2024

Looking for Ontario travel advice?

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

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This Train Ride Is The Most Epic Way To Get To The Northern Lights In Ontario

This Train Ride Is The Most Epic Way To Get To The Northern Lights In Ontario

Have you ever seen the Northern Lights?  In Ontario's Northland, a scenic train ride will bring you to a place where the Lights shine in all their colourful glory.

READ ALSO:  The Ultimate 24-Hour Guide To Niagara Falls

The Polar Bear Express   is a passenger train that operates from Cochrane to Moosonee. This ride has gained the attention of several tourism websites, including National Geographic's list of Top 10 Things To Do In Northern Ontario  and Northern Ontario Travel's Northern Lights Trip Planner !

Your journey would essentially start in Cochrane, where you'll definitely want to stay for a night or two to search the night skies. A short 5-minute drive out of the town will bring you to dark areas perfect for viewing the Northern Lights. The following day, you can take a five-hour train ride from Cochrane to Moosonee, which is another great place to see the Lights. Although you may not see the Lights from the train, you'll still be treated to amazing views of the surrounding boreal forest and its surging rivers. Upon arrival at Moosonee, you can check in at the Cree Village Ecolodge , where you can relax in your room and look out the windows for aurora light shows.

Forecasts of peak viewing times for the light shows  can be found on SpaceWeather.com, which gives real-time, 24-hour updates. According to the website, the best times to go on the trip would be in the fall or during the winter months until April. For those who aren't much for train rides,  Killarney, Timmins, North Bay and James Bay are all prime places to drive to for viewing the Northern Lights due to their minimal (or complete lack of) light pollution. 

The train is currently undergoing a major renovation  to include eight passenger coaches, two dining cars, one snack car, one family car and two baggage cars. The renovations are set to be completed in 2017.

Plan your trip to Ontario's Northland via the Polar Bear Express here .

Cover photo is of Via Rail's Tundra Train and is not representative of the Polar Bear Express.

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plan your trip ontario northland

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It's Northland Time

Your holiday starts with a scenic route

An abundance of choice awaits you in Northland. Let your holiday start with a scenic route, adding only around 20 minutes to your journey and delivering stunning beaches, great walks, and wildlife. Enjoy a Northland journey at your own pace, with plenty of activities encouraging you to embrace the moment, turn on your out of office and lose track of time, Northland Style.

#ItsNorthlandTime

MAKING YOUR WAY TO NORTHLAND

NZTA Waka Kotahi are undertaking important upgrade works on State Highway 1 through the Brynderwyns. Northland remains open and ready to welcome visitors via three detour routes which will be in place now until completion of the upgrade works on 13 May 2024.  

Plan ahead to make the most of your trip to Northland by visiting the NZTA Journey Planner website, where you’ll find all of the latest roading information to make your journey a safe and enjoyable one. With three alternative routes on offer, it’s over to you to decide which Northland adventure you’ll choose!

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20 wifi free things to do on your next trip to Taitokerau Northland

When was the last time that you lost track of time? Take a scenic route, head North and lose track of time with us. Here’s 20 wifi-free things to do your next trip to Taitokerau Northland. 1. Soaking… See more

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  • About Northern Ontario
  • Canadian Canoe Culture
  • Explore Indigenous Culture
  • Group of Seven
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  • 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
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plan your trip ontario northland

The Great Outdoors Is All You Need

It's time to get wild. This summer is your chance to get away somewhere your weary soul can recharge and rejuvenate.

We've got just the spot: Ontario, Canada. It's the whole world in one place. 

Paddle, hike, bike, or fish—or take a road trip and explore our vibrant cities and enjoy Northern cuisine. 

Check out the beautiful cities of Kenora , Thunder Bay or Sioux Narrows/Nestor Falls . Or jump into fishing or outdoors adventures in Sunset or Superior Country .

The North is calling. Will you answer? 

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COMMENTS

  1. Ontario Northland

    Travel the true north. Ontario Northland. Travelling Today? Find a Station Schedules Service Updates Arrivals Departures Track my Bus Reschedule your Trip. Travelling By Bus. Relax, Sit Back, and Let Us Drive. Taking a trip? Let us drive while you sit back and catch up on a series, read a book, study, work or simply enjoy the view from your ...

  2. Travelling by Bus

    All baggage must weigh less than 50 pounds (23 kg) and not be larger than 24 inches (61 cm) in depth, 24 inches (61 cm) in width and 45 inches (114 cm) in length (except snowboards, skis and ski poles). For your convenience, Ontario Northland will check two (2) additional pieces of baggage at $15 each.

  3. Ontario Northland

    About. Are you planning a trip to Muskoka?Let Ontario Northland take the wheel while you relax and catch up on your favorite TV show, read a book, study, work, or simply enjoy the scenic views from your window! Their modern and dependable service offers all the comfort, reliability, and breathtaking views you could ask for. The bus makes stops in Gravenhurst, Bracebridge, and Huntsville, so ...

  4. Northlander Passenger Train

    December 15, 2022: Ontario Northland procures three new trainsets. April 10, 2022: The province committed a $75 million investment to bring passenger rail service back and released the Updated Initial Business Case to advance planning of the preferred route. November 2021: Timmins announced as the terminus station. May 2021: Release of the Initial Business Case and a proposed service option.

  5. Welcome to ONR

    Onboard.ontarionorthland.ca is your online portal to access your travel information, manage your bookings, and enjoy your trip with Ontario Northland. Whether you are travelling by bus or train, you can find your itinerary, check your departure status, and view the station locations. Onboard.ontarionorthland.ca also offers you the convenience of buying tickets online and printing them at home ...

  6. Ontario Northland

    Travel by bus with Ontario Northland and Busbud. As an official partner, Busbud helps you find, compare and book Ontario Northland bus tickets. You can easily find the fastest, cheapest and best bus travel option for you. Ontario Northland provides comfortable and reliable bus transportation to over 275,000 passengers each year.

  7. Northeastern Ontario

    View the scenery and watch for the northern lights from a seat on Ontario Northland's Polar Bear Express train. Go on a fishing excursion. With countless lakes, rivers and waterways, Northeastern Ontario is the ideal fishing spot. ... Our experts are here to help you plan your perfect trip. Call or book today. 1-800-668-2746. Book a virtual ...

  8. Train-in Getaways in Northeastern Ontario

    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.

  9. North Bay

    The North Bay area is best explored by car, although Ontario Northland provides some bus service to the city. North Bay can also be reached by air, ... Our experts are here to help you plan your perfect trip. Call or book today. 1-800-668-2746. Book a virtual appointment. Footer Navigation Explore Ontario. Regions, cities and towns;

  10. Travel Advisories

    Ontario Northland service will be cancelled; If your schedule allows, we suggest that you postpone your trip until a later time when the warning is lifted. During a Storm Warning, Ontario Northland will rebook your ticket to a later date at no charge. Passengers scheduled to travel on a route that is cancelled due to a Storm Warning (Travel ...

  11. Where to Travel in Ontario

    Cruise the Great Lakes. The MS Chi-Cheemaun, or "the Big Canoe," is a 648-passenger ferry that travels the 40 km between the beautiful community of Tobermory to equally beautiful Manitoulin Island on Georgian Bay during the summer season. Relax on the upper deck and take in the northern landscape, have a glass of wine, a craft brew or a ...

  12. Plan Your Winter Trip

    Northwest Ontario's Sunset Country, bordering both Manitoba and Minnesota, is a bucket list road trip and epic staycation destination packed with an immense stretch of untamed wilderness just waiting for the adventurous explorer. This space is your best resource for snowmobiling, ice fishing, skiing, and outdoor adventure. Whatever your winter ...

  13. Northlander Passenger Train

    Ontario Northland is proud to be working toward the reinstatement of passenger rail in Northeastern Ontario! The passenger train service, also known as the Northlander, will fundamentally shift how people move across the province, creating a more connected, integrated transportation network

  14. This Train Ride Is The Most Epic Way To Get To The Northern ...

    The Polar Bear Express is a passenger train that operates from Cochrane to Moosonee. This ride has gained the attention of several tourism websites, including National Geographic's list of Top 10 Things To Do In Northern Ontario and Northern Ontario Travel's Northern Lights Trip Planner! Your journey would essentially start in Cochrane, where ...

  15. Plan Your Northern Ontario Road Trip

    April 12, 2023. A Northern Ontario road trip offers a lot of fun options: gorgeous winding roads with rock cliffs and sparkling lakes, quirky roadside stands and attractions, vibrant towns and campgrounds, stunning beaches and memorable wildlife sightings. Ontario is the second-largest province in one of the world's biggest countries, and ...

  16. It's Northland Time

    Let your holiday start with a scenic route, adding only around 20 minutes to your journey and delivering stunning beaches, great walks, and wildlife. Enjoy a Northland journey at your own pace, with plenty of activities encouraging you to embrace the moment, turn on your out of office and lose track of time, Northland Style. #ItsNorthlandTime

  17. Plan Your Summer Trip

    Paddle, hike, bike, or fish—or take a road trip and explore our vibrant cities and enjoy Northern cuisine. Check out the beautiful cities of Kenora, Thunder Bay or Sioux Narrows/Nestor Falls. Or jump into fishing or outdoors adventures in Sunset or Superior Country. The North is calling.