Ontario is one step closer to regaining a train that runs from Toronto to Muskoka.
On May 31, the province announced that it had awarded three contracts to design and build station shelters, enhance the rail system, and complete warning system upgrades for the rail service.
The Ontario Ministry of Transportation originally unveiled its plans to bring back the Northlander train in 2021. The train was originally taken out of service in 2012. The provincial Liberal government, in power at the time, cited a stagnated demand for services and a “no longer affordable” subsidy per passenger.
The train will make 16 stops between Toronto and Timmins, plus a rail connection to Cochrane.
Over the next two years, stations will be installed in Matheson, Kirkland Lake, Temiskaming Shores, Temagami, South River, Huntsville, Bracebridge, Gravenhurst and Washago.
Photo Courtesy of Ontario Northland
Reinstatement of the rail service will not only connect northern workers and residents, but also has the potential to bring more tourism to the regions it passes through.
“We are pleased to see the Ontario government investing in shelters along the Northlander route, including right here in Bracebridge,” said Bracebridge mayor Rick Maloney in a press release. “These upgraded amenities will contribute to providing safe, accessible transportation options to residents and visitors while helping support the growth and development of our local economy through improved access to tourism and job opportunities.”
While the Ontario Northland currently runs several bus routes that connect Toronto and Muskoka, most people visiting the region make the trek via car. The train ride from Ontario’s capital to Muskoka will likely be less than three hours, similar to how long it takes to drive there. In other words, this means three hours spent not sitting in traffic!
“What’s so exciting is that there are multiple stops throughout Muskoka,” says Val Hamilton, the executive director of Muskoka Tourism. “Each community can take advantage of this transit system in their own way.”
The train is set to run four to seven days a week, depending on seasonal travel demands, according to the ministry.
Hamilton says that reinstating the train will enhance travel accessibility for tourists, including those looking to bring along bicycles or skis. Local organizations within Muskoka are currently in talks to develop shuttle systems from the train stations to bring tourists to nearby amenities, like ski hills or trails.
“People can be afraid to drive to Muskoka, especially during the winter,” says Hamilton. “Since the train will be operating all 12 months of the year, this will help grow tourism in every season.”
The Northlander is expected to begin running in 2026.
Related Story First test run for proposed train route between Toronto and cottage country
Related Story Train service to return to Northeastern Ontario
Related Story 5 of our favourite back roads in Ontario cottage country