For years, getting to Northern Ontario has often meant a long drive up Highway 11, navigating traffic, unpredictable weather, and hours behind the wheel. But that’s all about to change. After being discontinued in 2012, the Northlander train is officially on track to return — and with it, a new way to explore Ontario’s north that’s easier, more accessible, and a whole lot more comfortable.
At the 2025 Northeastern Municipal Conference in North Bay, Ontario Northland CEO Chad Evans confirmed that testing and commissioning of the new Northlander trains will begin in 2026, following the delivery of three brand-new trainsets. “What this means to you, in those Northern Ontario communities, is you’re going to see the train operating for a number of weeks or months,” Evans said, ahead of the full launch.
And for anyone questioning: is this really going to happen?
Evans has a clear answer. “It’s happening,” he said, noting that staff have already toured the new trainsets at the Siemens facility in California. “We’ve stood in them, touched them, and photographed them.”
And for those who live in or travel to communities like Temiskaming Shores, North Bay, Matheson, Timmins, and even downtown Toronto, this isn’t just a return of a train service — it’s a game-changer.
Built for Today’s Travel Needs
Ontario Northland has invested in three Siemens-built Venture trainsets — each made up of one locomotive and three passenger cars — with comfort, accessibility, and efficiency top of mind.
Inside, passengers will find modern seating with integrated power outlets, USB ports, adjustable tray tables, and overhead reading lights. Wide aisles and lightweight aluminum frames help reduce fuel consumption while supporting better energy efficiency and a smoother ride.
And yes, there’s Wi-Fi.
Travelers can also expect spacious, fully accessible washrooms and easy-to-navigate floor layouts for a more comfortable experience on longer trips. Boarding will be made easier for all riders, with built-in lifts, mobility aid storage areas, and seats designated for individuals who provide support services. There’s even Braille signage on essential features like seat numbers and call-for-aid buttons, along with both visual and audio onboard announcements.
More Ways to Ride
With up to 16 stops in each direction depending on seasonal demand, the Northlander will run southbound from Timmins and northbound from Toronto, stopping in towns like Cochrane, Englehart, Temagami, Huntsville, Bracebridge, Washago, and ending at Union Station.
From North Bay, it’ll take about 2.5 hours to reach Bracebridge and five hours to get to Toronto — with no white-knuckle highway driving required.
Seating options will also suit different travel styles. Passengers can choose from standard two-seat layouts, single-aisle seats for solo travelers, or pod-style seating with two bench seats and a table — perfect for families or groups of four. Open overhead luggage storage will be available for all passengers.
Designed with Community in Mind
The return of the Northlander is not just about getting people from point A to B. It’s about reconnecting communities and making Ontario feel more connected — especially for those in the north.
Track rehabilitation is a key part of the project, with work already underway to improve comfort and safety. The province is also investing in upgraded stations along the route. Nine new station shelters are being built, while stops in places like North Bay, Kirkland Lake, and Temagami are getting raised platforms, better signage, and improved lighting. A brand-new station is in the works for Timmins-Porcupine.
As Minister of Transportation Prabmeet Sarkaria said, “The Northlander will not only bring safe and reliable transportation back to communities ranging from Muskoka to North Bay to Timmins — it will also help unlock the province’s full economic potential.”
Ontario Northland estimates the train could serve 40,000 to 60,000 passengers per year once operational.
What Will It Cost?
While exact fares haven’t been released, officials have confirmed that pricing will be similar to Ontario Northland’s motor coach service. Expect economy and business class options, firm and flex fares, and dynamic pricing.
The new trains have already passed extreme weather testing, and once they’re delivered in 2026, they’ll go through additional safety and commissioning processes with Transport Canada and Ontario Northland’s safety team.
The Northlander will undoubtedly make Ontario travel more accessible, especially for those in the north who have often been left out of the conversation regarding public transportation. It’s about choosing comfort over congestion, and connections over compromises.
