agawa canyon fall tour

Now taking online reservations for the 2024 season!

AGAWA CANYON TOUR TRAIN

Train rides through northern ontario.

NEXT STOP: AGAWA TRAIN ADVENTURE

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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. During the tour season, it’s open 7 days a week.

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 30 minutes before the scheduled excursion.

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?

Tickets are on sale soon! 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.

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waterfall view from train

This Tour takes in 3 of our Great Lakes:  Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Lake Huron!     Day 1 – Home to Escanaba, MI  Join us as we motor through the changing colors of the rolling hills of Wisconsin to Escanaba for the evening. Tonight enjoy an included dinner together!  Included Meals: Dinner  Hotel: Comfort […]

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This Tour takes in 3 of our Great Lakes:  

Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Lake Huron!

Day 1 – Home to Escanaba, MI  

Join us as we motor through the changing colors of the rolling hills of Wisconsin to Escanaba for the evening. Tonight enjoy an included dinner together!  

Included Meals: Dinner  

Hotel: Comfort Suites  

Day 2 – Escanaba to Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario  

Discover the Upper Peninsula as we skirt along the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan & Lake Superior, and visit the second largest waterfall east of the Mississippi River, Tahquamenon Falls with its copper tint produced by natural minerals in the Tahquamenon River. Lunch will be served at a local pub within the park. We’ll arrive in Sault Ste. Marie where we’ll stay two nights. Adventure awaits as we enjoy a wonderful cruise through the famous Soo Locks!  

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner  

Hotel: Soo Locks Lodge & Suites (2 Nights)  

Day 3 – Sault Ste. Marie to Agawa Canyon via Train  

We’ll fuel up with breakfast at the hotel, preparing us for a full day scenic adventure. Behold splendid fall foliage as we rail through rugged wilderness and deep valleys and gorges, featuring rushing rivers and peaceful lakes on the classic Agawa Canyon Tour Train. Crossing towering trestles, as our train winds its way through this one-of-a-kind terrain, a GPS triggered commentary weaves the story of this stunning region. Lunch is on your own aboard the train. After descending 500 feet in the last 10 miles, we’ll reach the incredible floor of the Agawa Canyon, where we’ll stop in Agawa Canyon Park for some leisure time to hike the trails or relax amidst the incredible landscapes. Boarding the train for our journey back to Sault Ste. Marie, we can’t help but keep looking out the large windows! During dinner we’ll enjoy talking about our spectacular day with our new travel friends!  

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner  

Day 4 – Sault Ste. Marie to Mackinaw City, MI  

Cross the Mighty Mac five-mile bridge that links the upper and lower peninsulas of Michigan, then ferry over to Historic Mackinac Island. A horse and buggy carriage awaits to carry us around to all the sights and a charming tour of the island. Mackinac Island has seemingly remained untouched–as it was when the first European settlers came there about three centuries ago. No motorized vehicles are allowed on the island; transportation is limited to horse, carriage, bike, or foot! Join us for a spectacular luncheon buffet at the famous Grand Hotel. The remainder of the afternoon will be at your leisure to enjoy the surrounding activities, shops, and scenery. Some may want to rent a bicycle. Then we ferry back to Mackinaw City where we’ll settle into our hotel, perfectly situated on the shores of Lake Huron. This evening you may wish to stroll the beach or take in the water’s sounds from the private balcony of your lakefront room!  

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch  

Hotel: Hamilton Inn Select Beachfront (Lakefront Rooms!)  

Day 5 – Mackinaw City to Ludington, MI  

Breakfast will be served at the hotel before we motor along the beautiful shores of the west coast of Michigan, and on through the resort communities of Charlevoix. We’ll stop in Traverse City for lunch and shopping on tour own. More fall foliage awaits as we view rural & agricultural Joyfield Township during our Fantail Farm’s wagon ride pulled by draft horses! Next we continue on to Ludington, a charming port town, where we’ll check into our hotel. We invite you, our special guests, to dinner at a delightful restaurant.  

Hotel: Holiday Inn Express  

Day 6 – Ludington to Home  

Board the S.S. Badger in Ludington for an exciting cruise across beautiful Lake Michigan. Options on board are many, including a movie lounge, historical displays, gift shop, and a light lunch/snack area. We’ll then cross Wisconsin and arrive home.  

Included Meals: Light Breakfast  

Flyaway Per Person Pricing Information

Motorcoach travel protection per person, travel bucks, deposit due, passport needed, price includes.

11 Meals, Hotels & Activities as stated in brochure, Luxury Motorcoach

Tour Highlights

* Tahquamenon Falls & River Sights * Cruise on the Soo Locks * Agawa Canyon Train Day Trip with Spectacular Fall Scenery * Beautiful Mackinac Island including Lunch at the Grand Hotel * 1 Night Lakefront Rooms in Mackinac City * Fantail Farm Horse-Drawn Wagon Ride * Cruise Across Lake Michigan

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Agawa Canyon Tour Train

Our Location

Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario

Tickets Available Now. The 2024 Summer Season runs from August 3rd, 2024, to September 15th, 2024. The 2024 Fall Season runs from September 16th, 2024, to October 15th, 2024.

Book Your Tickets At: https://agawatrain.com/

All aboard the Agawa Canyon Tour Train and experience a one-day wilderness rail excursion to Agawa Canyon, which operates from early June to mid-October. Algoma is ablaze with colour during autumn and for decades the Canyon Tour has been a favourite way for fall ‘leaf peepers’ to experience some of the most spectacular fall colours in North America. Though peak colour varies each season, typically the last two weeks of September and the first week of October can offer the best colour and should be considered when planning your excursion.

Amenities & Features

• Gift/Souvenir Shop
• Free Parking
• Public Washroom
• 99 Huron Street Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario P6A 5P4

Toll Free : 1-844-246-9458

[email protected]

/agawatrain.com/

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 2023 season are available now for tours August 3rd – October 15th. Book your tickets here!

Book Your 2024 Train Tickets Here!

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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

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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.

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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.

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Agawa Canyon Tour Train

"The seemingly unending mixed forests of the Canadian Shield open up as you skirt the shores of northern lakes and rivers, cross towering trestles, and set eyes on the same rugged landscapes and majestic views that inspired the Group of Seven."

Northern Ontario's rugged beauty often surprises visitors. There are many opportunities to experience and explore these incredible landscapes, and one of the more unique ways is aboard the one-day Agawa Canyon Tour Train .

Departing from the Algoma Central Railway/CN depot in downtown Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, this 114-mile excursion truly showcases this rugged beauty that is exclusive to the region. As you settle into your comfortable coach, you can feel the pace of life slow as the experience of a train ride evokes a sense of simpler times while raising expectations of the journey that lies ahead.

There are three locations offering a wide variety of Train Tour , Railway and Canadian souvenirs, from clothing to collectibles:

Whistle Stop – Passenger Depot 7:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Gift Coaches – Onboard Train 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. / 1:45 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Listen for announcements)

Souvenir Car – Agawa Canyon Park Open on arrival at Canyon until 20 minutes prior to departure. (Listen for announcements)

Dining Car Service

Sure, the main attractions of your railway tour reside outside your window. However, the Agawa Canyon Tour Train also caters to your more "civilized" tastes.

Take the dining car for example. Located in the middle of the train, it provides continuous service from the time you board until approximately 4:00 p.m. Enjoy a hearty breakfast, hot and cold lunches, picnic box lunches, cold drinks, coffee, tea, a cold beer on a hot summer day, along with wine and coolers (alcoholic refreshments available after 11:00 a.m.).

To help accommodate the breakfast rush coaches are called to the dining cars by coach number, so make sure to listen for announcements. Lunch seating is come as you please. For your convenience there's also a Café Car(s) offering light lunches and beverages (Listen up for announcements for car location). Please note: no personal food or beverages are allowed in the dining car .

No Smoking Policy The Agawa Canyon Tour Train is a smoke-free environment. Thank you for not smoking.

One Man's Vision

Having first visited the region in 1892, U.S. industrialist Francis H. Clergue foresaw numerous opportunities for growth as an industrial centre, and it was his vision that laid the foundation for the present day city of Sault Ste. Marie . Though Clergue had a flair for losing his investors money, his persuasive style and boundless optimism attracted investment dollars; and between 1894 and bankruptcy in 1903, he founded a dozen major enterprises including a steel mill, a pulp mill, two railways, two power and light utilities, a streetcar system and a fleet of steamships. Thanks to his vision, he watched a frontier outpost of 2,000 grow to a thriving town of 8,500.

Tales of the Rail

The Algoma Central Railway has over 100 years of history. Here are a few timeline tidbits:

1899: On August 11, 1899 The Algoma Central Railway Company is incorporated. 1900: March 20, 1990 construction of the ACR begins and on November 17th of that year the first passenger train travels to the end of track at Mile 19. 1901: Plans are made to push the rail line to Hudson's Bay and on May 23rd the name is changed to Algoma Central and Hudson Bay Railway Company. 1903: Clergue's empire collapses and construction is halted for 6 years. At this point track is laid to Mile 56 on the mainline north of the Sault and on the branch line from Michipicoten Harbour to Josephine, 6 miles from short of Hawk Junction. 1906: Construction of the line resumes. 1911: The Montreal River Trestle is constructed and track is laid over it by the end of October. The line reaches Hawk Junction and the branch line to Michipicoten Harbour is connected. 1912: By mid year the main line crosses the Canadian Pacific rail line at Franz (Mile 194.9) and then crosses the Canadian National Railways line at Oba (Mile 244.7) six months later. 1914: Track is laid as far north as Hearst, Ontario and shortly after plans to continue to Hudson Bay are abandoned. 1918: Group of Seven artists, Lawren Harris, J.E.H. MacDonald and Frank Johnston rent a boxcar fitted out as a portable cabin and spend a month painting in the areas of Agawa Station, Hubert and Batchewana. They continued to travel the ACR on painting trips until 1923, joined on various occasions by A.Y. Jackson and Arthur Lismer. 1935: Construction began on the power damn that now sits at the base of the Montreal River Trestle at Mile 92. The damn became operational in 1937. 1952: Algoma Central Railway became the first Canadian Railway to switch over entirely from steam to diesel locomotives. The first picnic area is cleared between the track and the Agawa River and Agawa Canyon Park is born. Customers travel up on the northbound passenger train and return with the southbound passenger train. 1959: 60 years after start up, Railway shareholders receive their first dividend cheque. 1965: References to Hudson Bay are removed and the name is changed to Algoma Central Railway. 1972: Due to increased popularity, the Railway begins operating the dedicated Agawa Canyon Tour Train. 1995: On February 1st the railway is purchased by Wisconsin Central Railway and with the change of ownership the name is changed to Algoma Central Railway Inc. 1998: In the previous year the steel mill announced it would be shutting down its low grade ore mine in Wawa and on June 25th the last 18 car ore train rumbled along the branch line to Hawk Junction. It then moved down to the Sault and with it an important chapter in the Railway's history came to a close. 2001: On October 9th Wisconsin Central is purchased by Canadian National Railway and Algoma Central Railway Inc. becomes a part of CN's Eastern Division. 2014: The Railway has the pleasure of your company aboard the Agawa Canyon Tour Train, joining over 3 million people who have experienced the beauty of this one-day rail tour.

The Group of Seven

Several members of Canada's Group of Seven painted in the Algoma region between 1918 and 1923, including Lawren Harris, A.Y. Jackson, Franz Johnston, J.E.H. MacDonald and Arthur Lismer. To gain access to this remote region, they rented a boxcar from the Railway. The car was outfitted like a cabin and was shunted to sidings near choice painting locations. From these locations they would set out on foot or canoe to capture this untamed area on canvas. Their paintings brought this vast, rugged and beautiful part of the country to fellow Canadians and the world. ( Group of Seven in Algoma Oct 2 - 26, 2014 brought to you by the Algoma Fall Festival )

Here are some interesting facts and details that you'll find along your journey: Mile 76: Mongoose Lake In the fall of 1920 the artists stayed in a cabin on Mongoose Lake instead of the box car to sketch and paint. One of these painting sites was discovered as recently as the fall of 2013. Mile 92: Montreal River/Falls/ Hubert The Montreal River attracted MacDonald and he made sketches in the neighborhood of the falls that resulted in his large canvas, Falls, Montreal River. Among all the painters, he responded most deeply to Algoma, creating a magnificent series of large-scale compositions. Mile 113: Agawa Canyon The artists stayed in their boxcar studio in Agawa Canyon to sketch for several days and then using an Algoma Central Railway hand-car, they ventured north and south to sketch and paint.

Mile 123: Eton and Mile 138: Sand Lake In the fall of 1921 Harris, Lismer and Jackson came north again to sketch and paint in the Eton area, and then moved further north to finish up on Sand Lake. Mile 195: Franz At the end of their 1921 fall trip, Harris and Jackson decided to travel west along the shore of Lake Superior. They took the ACR north to Franz, where they caught a C.P.R. freight to Schriber where they got off and walked to Rossport, their final destination.

SCENIC GUIDE POINTS

With so many awesome spectacles to behold, you won't want to miss a thing. To help make sure you don't, here are some quick hits of the more notable sights you can expect to see during your journey:

Northbound Sault to Canyon

Between Miles 102 and 110 the mile markers are on poles to your left. Look to your right for the rest of the trip.

Miles from SSM

0 – 2 Waterfront to the left. Past old paper mill, under International Bridge, past the main entrance to Essar Steel and through the Algoma Central rail yards and shops.

3.5 – 4.5 View of western portion of city including steel mill, bridge and upper St. Marys River.

7.75 Cross overpass on Highway 17 North and follow it on your left until it divides and veers towards Lake Superior.

15.5 Searchmont Highway to right and below, passing Lower Island Lake.

19 – 20 View of Bellevue Valley. Best view to left of track. Cross Goulais Bay of Lake Superior in distance 810ft/246.9m long, 100ft/30.5km high trestle.

27 Goulais River Valley to the left.

30 – 32 Cross Goulais River and see Searchmont Ski Resort to the right.

32 Farming, mining and timber brought settlers to the village of Searchmont beginning in the early 1890's.

43 – 45 Little Achigan Lake to the left and Achigan Lake appearing on the right.

48 Ogidaki Lake to the right.

52 South Branch of Chippewa River.

57 Trout Lake to the right. The Department of Lands and Forest firebase here was closed and sold to cottagers.

60 – 61 Look right across valley to upper Trout Lake.

62 Mekatina Lake on the right.

69 Cross North Branch of Chippewa River.

71 Spruce Lake to the left.

75.5 View of Mongoose Lake to the right.

80 – 84 Ascent from the Batchewana River begins and the valley can be viewed to the right at Mileage 84.

80.5 Cross Batchewana River.

85.5 Passing Rand Lake on the right.

89 Regent Lake on right.

92 The curved Montreal River trestle is 130ft/39.6m high, 1550ft/472.4m long, and offers views in both directions. The power dam at the base supplies Sault Ste. Marie and surrounding area. Another 3 dams are further downstream. The river is navigable 30 miles (48.2km) upstream.

95.5 Hubert Lake on the right.

102 – 114 Train descends over 500ft/152.4m in 12 miles (19.3km) to reach the Canyon floor. Views are to the left and, for the first time since Mileage 19, you will see Lake Superior and Highway 17 North about 5 miles (8km) away. The Agawa River winds below. At Mile 112 we reach the Canyon floor and cross the Agawa River. Bridal Veil Falls is to the right and Black Beaver Falls to the left.

Train Departure Passengers detrain for approximately 90min. Please listen for announced departure times.

TOUR TRAIN TIDBITS

The awesome region the Agawa Canyon Tour Train winds its way through is truly a sight to behold. If you have any doubts, just check out some of these incredible stats:

The Canyon Walls – 575ft/175.2m at the highest point.

The Lookout – 250ft/76.2m up the Canyon wall. There are just over 300 steps and a return trip from the First Aid Building takes approximately 40 minutes.

Black Beaver Falls – 175ft/53.3m high and a return trip from the First Aid Building takes approximately 30 minutes.

Bridal Veil Falls – 225ft/68.5m high and a return trip from the First Aid Building takes approximately 40 minutes.

Agawa River – the colour of the Agawa River is the result of staining by tannic acid (tannin), which leaches out of the root systems and bark of cedar trees. The substance is common in this area and is also found in red wine and tea.

Lake Superior – 10 miles (16km) west of Agawa Canyon Park. Highway 17 runs along the shore of Lake Superior.

Lake Superior Provincial Park – the boundary is 6 miles (9.6km) west and 2 miles (3.2km) south of Agawa Canyon Park.

Distance in Rail Miles

Sault to Agawa Canyon – 114 miles (183.4km) Sault to Hawk Junction – 165 miles (265.5km) Sault to Hearst – 296 miles (476.2km) Canyon to Frater – 11.5 miles (18.5km) Canyon to Hawk Junction – 51 miles (82km) Canyon to Hearst – 182 miles (292.8km)

AGAWA CANYON PARK INFORMATION

Area Geology

The granitic bedrock underlying this area, formed 2.5 billion years ago, is amongst the oldest rock in the world. Agawa Canyon was created through faulting which occurred 1.2 billion years ago. A series of ice ages subsequently abraded and altered the Canyon over a period of 1.5 million years with the last ice cover retreating about 10,000 years ago. These ice sheets, over one mile thick, widened the Canyon walls and deposited sediments on the Canyon floor – creating the present terraced surface above the Agawa River and below the Canyon walls.

Algoma Weather Average Temperatures

January -11˚C 11˚F February - 6˚C 19˚F March 0˚C 31˚F April 8˚C 47˚F May 16˚C 61˚F June 20˚C 68˚F July 24˚C 75˚F August 23˚C 74˚F September 18˚C 65˚F October 10˚C 50˚F November 4˚C 39˚F December -4˚C 24˚F

Yearly Precipitation: 906mm (35.66in) Average Snowfall: 472cm (15.75ft) Record Snowfall: 1989-90 782cm (25.5ft) Latitude: 47 degrees 30´ Longitude: 84 degrees 30´

Your Canyon Park Visit

In summer and fall you will enjoy a 90 min stopover in the pristine beauty of Agawa Canyon Wilderness Park. (This stopover may be reduced in order to meet safe train schedules). Canyon Park is located at Mile 114 and is only accessible by rail. During the stopover, your train seats will be turned for the return trip. Articles left on the floor may be damaged during this procedure and we ask that you place any personal belongings on your seat. Departure and boarding time announcements will be made just prior to your park stopover.

The park has a variety of trails that lead to the most scenic spots, including three waterfalls and the breathtaking Lookout. There are plenty of picnic areas for those wishing to have lunch during the stopover or you may want to eat prior to arrival or after departure, in order to have the most time to explore the park.

During your stay in the Park we ask that you watch for any train movements as you cross or walk beside the tracks. The Railway cannot be held responsible for injury to patrons within the wilderness park. Please exercise caution while in the park and walking on trails, and be mindful of children and considerate of others. Please ensure you wear suitable recreational clothing and footwear. The first aid building is designated with a green cross and staff will be on hand if you require any assistance.

Canyon Restroom Facilities The restroom facilities in Canyon Park are located just off the train platform between the Souvenir Car and First Aid Building. Though they may look the same as the restrooms you may find in a quality department store, that is where the similarity ends. These facilities are environmentally friendly. Called a Clivus Multrum system, they have no negative impact on the environment and produce a high quality compost fertilizer that the park uses on its flowerbeds. Usage is the same as a regular bathroom, except there is no need to flush. IMPORTANT: In order for the system to work properly please close lid after use and refrain from throwing garbage or cigarette butts in toilets. Thank you for helping us keep Agawa Canyon Park pristine. The train restrooms are also available during your stopover.

Flora & Fauna

We have attempted to augment the environment to provide optimum habitat for a variety of native plant and animal species. As you walk the trails in the park, look around and you may be rewarded with a glimpse of a ruffed grouse, beaver, river otters or speckled (brook) trout inhabiting Otter Creek. Large mammals can make occasional sojourns into the park, but seldom linger long. The proximity of the railway track and steep canyon walls render the area unappealing to moose and bear. Beaver and otter inhabit the Agawa River and may be visible from the River Trail, as may mergansers, wood ducks and goldeneyes. Small mammals that might be seen include red chipmunks, meadow voles and groundhogs.

Bird life in Canyon Park is varied and though they tend to be least active during tour hours you may see a variety of raptors including merlins, golden eagles, broad wing hawks and American Kestrels. The most commonly sighted birds at mid-day include ravens, robins, grackles, ruffed grouse, flickers and a variety of waders and ducks. Great Blue Herons hunt pools in the park and are occasionally seen during the tour.

Agawa Canyon Park is situated in the transition zone between the Great Lakes – St. Lawrence Forest region and the Boreal Forest, with representative flora from both regions present in the park. It may be further classified as a River Lowland Zone and the resultant plant community is numerous and diverse. Some of the more common species that flower in the spring and summer include: yellow and orange hawkweed, ox-eye daisy, nodding trillium, yellow clintonia and bunchberry. Common species that flower later in the season include: viper's bugloss, bladder campion, pearly everlasting, yarrow, evening primrose and a number of asters. The park has a wildflower slope containing many of these common, as well as introduced, species.

Plant and animal communities in Canyon Park face a variety of obstacles to their survival including an annual snowfall exceeding 15ft/4.5m. Please be gentle with all living things in the park. The balance of nature can be easily and unknowingly upset through picking or damaging plants and trees.

The trails in the Park have been developed to provide access to the most scenic spots and to provide a wide range of walking/hiking opportunities. The trails are well maintained and are covered in fine gravel called crusher fines. Please refrain from smoking on trails. Park staff roam the trails during the tour and you may usually find them stationed at the Lookout, Bridal Veil or the First Aid Building should you require assistance.

Note: Approximate trail times are for a round-trip from the park First Aid Building.

The Talus Trail

The Talus Trail follows along the base of the west Canyon wall. This trail will lead you past lichen covered talus slopes to the viewing platforms at North and South Black Beaver Falls (30 min return trip) and Bridal Veil Falls (40 min return trip). The water flow at all the falls is contingent on runoff from snow and rainfall and can range from raging torrents to thin trickles over the course of the tour season. Even at low flow the 175ft/53.3m Black Beaver and 225ft/68.5m Bridal Veil Falls are a beautiful culmination to a very enjoyable hike. When walking the Talus Trail watch for ruffed grouse, woodchucks and eastern chipmunks. For the return trip you may want to use the River Trail.

The Lookout Trail

A challenge for the adventurous and the energetic, this trail ascends 250ft/76.2m above the tracks to provide a breathtaking panoramic view of the Canyon. The trail is a combination of crusher fine paths and over 300 stairs that lead you to large wooden viewing platforms where you can catch your breath, until the view takes it away again.

The River Trail

Follow this gently rolling trail along the banks of the Agawa River to Black Beaver Falls (30 min return) and Bridal Veil Falls (40 min return). The tannin-stained waters of the Agawa River are home to speckled (brook) trout, beaver, otters, mallard and merganser ducks, which you may catch a glimpse of during your stroll. Picnic tables are located along this route for a private, peaceful lunch. The Talus Trail on the west side of the tracks provides an alternate return route.

OTHER RAIL ADVENTURES

Tour of the Line A must see for rail fans... a 296 mile tour of our entire line combining the rugged beauty of the Canyon Tour with the boreal forest of the Great Clay Belt Region. After a full days travel you will arrive in the French Canadian community of Hearst, Ontario, where you can spend a day or two discovering all that one of Northern Ontario's friendliest towns has to offer. Year-round on the regular passenger train schedule.

Wilderness by Rail The Algoma Central Railway provides the outdoor enthusiast access to incredible wilderness opportunities and there are a growing number of Adventure Travel/Ecotour Operators in the area, offering a wide variety of experiences. Load all your gear – canoes, kayaks, backpacks, whatever your adventure requires – into the Railway's baggage cars and travel to a remote drop off point along the rail line. From the rugged landscapes of the Algoma Highlands, to the backcountry of Lake Superior Provincial Park or the wild beauty of the Chapleau Game Preserve, the Algoma Central Railway is a truly unique way to experience your wilderness adventure. From sea kayaking, canoeing, ice and rock climbing to hiking, photography, birding and ATV tours, these operators have an eco-adventure planned for you.

Tracks to the Trails Load up your sleds in our enclosed baggage cars and sit back and relax as we transport you north, through the breathtaking winter wonderland of Algoma Country . Get off at one of the communities along the line or travel to the end of steel and begin your sledding adventure in Hearst, Ontario. You'll discover hundreds of miles of well groomed and signed trails, affordable accommodations and friendly people. Whether it's a couple of sleds or a large group, die-hard riders or a family outing, incredible snowmobiling experiences are waiting for you along the line. Operates on winter passenger train schedule.

Lodges Along the Line The Railway provides the outdoor enthusiast year-round access to a variety of remote wilderness lodges as it winds its way through the heart of 22,000 square miles, including the Chapleau Game Preserve, the world's largest wildlife preserve. From the first class to rustic, summer or winter, fishing hunting or birding, business or art retreat or a family vacation away from it all, an incredible wilderness lodge getaway is waiting for you along the line.

RAILWAY SIGNS

Whistle Post Blow Whistle as prescribed by C.R.O. Rule 14 (L) i.e., road crossings etc.

Restricted Clearance Sign To call attention to restricted side or overhead clearance or both where employees must not ride sides or tops of cars.

Flanger Sign Calls attention to snowplow and flanger operators of an upcoming obstruction to the operation of their equipment.

Station Mile Board Indicates one mile to the station stop.

Mile Post Located at one-mile intervals to designate subdivision mileage

Derail A safety device that will derail vehicles passing it, often used to prevent rolling stock from unintentionally fouling the main track.

Spring Switch A switch equipped with a spring mechanism arranged to restore the switch points to normal position after train passes through it.

Measured Mile Sign Placed at locations specified in timetable subdivision footnotes to facilitate unit speedometer check.

Main Track Begins Sign Located at the actual point where main track begins.

Main Track Ends Sign Located at the actual point where main track ends.

Permissible Speed Call attention to a permanent speed restriction or zone speed specified in special instructions. When two speeds are shown on the sign, the upper speed applies to passenger trains and the lower speed to other trains and engines. When one speed is shown on the sign it applies to all trains and engines, which are otherwise authorized to operate at a higher speed.

Resume Speed When a sign is placed to slow a train, the sign will be placed 1/4 mile in advance of the speed restriction. A resume speed sign or a speed sign showing a higher speed will be placed at the end of each restriction. A train engine or track unit must not exceed the speed shown on each speed sign until the rear of the movement has passed a resume speed sign or a sign showing a higher speed.

Mile 71.5: Spruce Haven Wilderness Lodge Call: 705-759-6347 (all year) Visit: www.sprucehavenlodge.netfirms.com

Mile 92: Canadian Adventure Camp Call: 705-882-1018 x013 (summer) 715-484-2742 x240 (winter) Visit: www.canadianadventurecamp.org

Mile 118.5: Kwagama Lake Lodge Call: 705-856-1104 (summer) 616-694-6571 (winter) Visit: www.kwagamalakelodge.com

Mile 122.5: Windy Lake Lodge Call: 705-856-7086 1-800-771-5495 Visit: www.windylakelodge.com

Mile 165: Totomenai Lodge Call: 1-800-361-5709 (all year) Visit: www.totomenailodge.com

Mile 178: Loch Island Lodge/Camp Lochalsh Call: 705-234-2592 (summer) 1-888--635-1996 (winter) Visit: www.lochisland.com

Mile 195: North To Adventure Call: 705-759-8577 (all year) Visit: www.northtoadventure.com

Mile 206: Errington's Wilderness Islands Call: 705-884-2215 (summer) 705-946-2010 (winter) Visit: www.wildernessisland.com

Mile 212: Wood's Cabins Call: 705-884-2211 (summer) 604-731-3533 (winter) Visit: www.woodscabins.com

Mile 215: Tatnall Camp Call: 705-884-2444 (summer) 705-856-4901 (winter) Visit: www.tatnallcamp.com

Mile 245: Ontario North Fishing Adventures Call: 705-883-9011 (summer) 705-759-0057 (winter) Visit: www.ontarionorthfishing.com

Mile 245: Watson's Pine Portage Call: 705-856-2223 705-856-4233 Visit: www.fishthefinest.com

Mile 296: Hearst Air Service Call: 1-800-844-5700 (all year) Visit: www.hearstair.com

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Dionne Elgie grew up in Sault Ste. Marie and has a deep personal love for this city, and like many Saultites, a real passion for the great outdoors. Along with her team at DIG (Digital Intelligence Group)—she works with Tourism Sault Ste. Marie to curate compelling travel stories and collect truly useful tour tips that appeal to both local residents and out-of-town visitors. You can contact Dionne at [email protected]—she’d love to hear from you!

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• PLACES OF A LIFETIME

Agawa Canyon

By late September, the hardwood forests surrounding the Agawa Canyon light up with the crimson and gold of autumn. These identical glowing vistas were among wilderness scenes captured in the early 20th century by what would become known as the Group of Seven, the legendary school of Canadian artists whose landscape paintings helped foster appreciation for Canada's vast, untamed lands. Group member Lawren Harris even had a boxcar specially outfitted for fall painting expeditions along the Algoma Central Railway (ACR) line. Today, the landscapes remain remote—but not inaccessible. The artists' impressionistic canvas images can be viewed for real from the comfort of one of North America's most popular train rides.

When to Go:   The canyon is open year-round. However, fall is the best time to revisit the sites that inspired the Group of Seven. Leaves usually change color late September through early October. Ice climbing the 575-foot-high granite canyon walls is a growing adventure sport—for experienced ice climbers only.

How to Get Around:   The convenient, popular way to see the canyon is by the Agawa Canyon Tour Train . Departing daily from the city of Sault Ste. Marie , the train travels 114 miles into Ontario wilderness. It features large viewing windows, GPS-triggered tour narration, and various dining options. It stops for 90 minutes in Canyon Park, allowing passengers to explore several easy walking trails, nearby waterfalls, and a 250-foot-high lookout 372 steps above the canyon. The train departs Sault Ste. Marie at 8 a.m. and returns around 6 p.m.

Adventurous can pack their own canoe on Algoma Central Railway's no-frills passenger line that runs three times a week all year or book a guided, weekend canoe trip. "That's the same way the Group of Seven would have gone up to paint the fall colors," says freelance writer and adventure guide Conor Mihell. "It's [Class 2] white water that you can navigate in a canoe—not over-the-top but still challenging enough that you can have fun."

Travelers can also drive along the north shore of Lake Superior. The route from Sault Ste. Marie to Wawa takes you through the stunning Lake Superior Provincial Park .

Where to Stay:   Book packages with your train journey—including Algoma Country fishing and wilderness lodges like the secluded Errington's Wilderness Island Resort (on a lake island in Chapleau Crown Game Preserve ) and Loch Island Lodge (with simple cabins and packages that include breakfast and dinner rounded out with homemade bread and desserts). From Sault Ste. Marie, it's a scenic, 30-minute drive north to Bellevue Valley Lodge , which features two bed-and-breakfast suites in the main lodge, a separate chalet that sleeps up to 15, and a traditional sauna. Lodge trails access 2,000 acres of forest hiking, biking, and snowshoeing.

What to Eat or Drink:   On the tour train,   dining runs throughout the day, serving hot and cold lunches, picnic boxes, tea, and cocktails. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis except for breakfast, based on coach number. A canteen also operates in Canyon Park.

What to Buy:   A souvenir car, open upon arrival in Canyon Park until a half-hour before departure, sells train memorabilia and Canadiana, such as Ontario-made maple leaf pins and jewelry, collectible spoons, and assorted Agawa Canyon T-shirts and sweatshirts.

What to Read Before You Go:   Award-winning Northern Light: The Enduring Mystery of Tom Thomson and the Woman Who Loved Him   by Roy MacGregor (Vintage Canada, 2011) examines the life, love, and mysterious death of one of the Group of Seven's most famous artists. To see the works of Thomson and his fellow painters, The Group of Seven and Tom Thomson   (Firefly Books, 2011) includes 400 of their paintings and drawings with background essays.

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Helpful Links:   Agawa Canyon Tour Train , Sault Ste. Marie Tourism , Algoma Country

Fun Fact: The Sault Ste. Marie Canal , a National Historic Site of Canada, was completed in 1895. At that time, it was the longest lock in the world and the first powered by electricity. Visitors can check out the site for a tour with an expert or a walk along the water.

Vancouver-based Robin Esrock is author of   The Great Canadian Bucket List and was the host of the Nat Geo Adventure TV series Word Travels.

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Agawa Canyon Fall Colour Train Tour Review: A 3-Day Trip to Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario

Fall foliage is a free gift from nature. The sight of different shades of red, orange and yellow mingled with the green is truly a beauty of nature that you do not want to miss. Agawa Canyon in Sault Ste. Marie is a hidden gem in Northern Ontario where you can see beautiful fall colours while riding a train. It is certainly a travel experience that left me breathless.

I have heard about Agawa Canyon and its one-day train tour for quite some time now. It has always been a place that I wanted to go to see the fall colours. Finally, this October, I had the chance to take a 3-day trip to experience this beautiful northern Ontario from Toronto. I’d like to document my experience in this blog post and provide a review of my 3 days here, just in case you are looking for some information.

We booked a trip with a local travel agency. The itinerary was pretty simple. It involved a lot of driving and sitting and not a ton of walking.

• Day 1: Driving from Toronto to Sault Ste. Marie. It was about a 7-hour drive with multiple short stops in between.
• Day 2: Full-day train tour to the Agawa Canyon
• Day 3: Driving back from Sault Ste. Marie to Toronto, with a stop at the Big Nickel for some pictures. It was again about a 7-hour drive with many stops for us to buy snacks and drinks and stretch our legs.

We chose to go with a travel agency because, to be honest, we just wanted to sit back and relax.

We were a bit nervous about the long drives but turned out they weren’t so bad. Time flew by quickly because of the fun conversations that I was having with other passengers and the beautiful scenes outside the bus window. Our tour guide said that the bus rides were also part of the trip. He wasn’t wrong at all.

The frequent stops along the way also helped a lot. We probably stopped every two to three hours. In addition to your typical ONroute stops along the highway, we also stopped at gift shops with great ice cream, plazas with lots of restaurants, Big Nickel for some photos, and so on.

Agawa Canyon train tour

Of course, the highlight of the trip was the Agawa Canyon train tour. As I briefly mentioned, the train tour starts in Sault Ste. Marie. It is about an 8-hour train ride, four hours to get to the canyon, and four hours to come back.

We started our day bright and early for the train tour. Breakfast was served between 6:30 and 7:30 am. It was a great hot breakfast, with bacon, scrambled eggs, toast, potatoes, fresh fruit, coffee and tea. I have to say the potatoes were especially delicious. After breakfast, we were also each given a boxed lunch. The lunch consists of a turkey sandwich, a pasta salad, an apple, and a small piece of brownie. Of course, you can also purchase food and drinks on the train.

We left the hotel soon after, and we arrived at the train station promptly at 8 am. The station was newly renovated during COVID-19 when they got a new owner and the train tour was shut down. It looked very nice, spacious and clean.

But of course, I was more excited about the train itself. It looked just the same as what I saw in the pictures.

The train started moving shortly after we got on. As we slowly waved goodbye to the city, I was soon immersed in the beauty of nature. I saw piles after piles of beautiful fall foliage quickly passing me by, spilling over hills and pouring into valleys. The sun was shining, making the red redder, the orange more orange. The water was so clean that you could view the reflections from the water as an extension of reality.

The seats on the train could turn so you could always face forward, in the same direction the train is moving at. There was also a recording playing whenever we passed a point of interest along the way, telling us some stories about the area and the significance of the site. Most notably, I learned that the Group of Seven, probably some of the most well-known Canadian wilderness painters, travelled to the place and visited the parks for inspiration for their paintings in the early 1900s.

Arriving at the Agawa Canyon park

It took us four hours to arrive at Agawa Canyon park. We had an hour and a half to explore the canyon itself. We decided to pick a trail along the riverbank to see the waterfalls. It was a pretty easy walk. The waterfalls were not as big as Niagara Falls, but they had their unique beauty as well.

You could also take a more strenuous climb up over 300 stairs to a breathtaking lookout, perched 250 feet above the canyon floor.

Other fun activities on the trip

Other than the Agawa Canyon train tour, we also had other fun activities.

Northwest Trading Company

We stopped at the Northwest Trading Company, McKerrow on our way to Sault Ste. Marie on the first day. They sold moccasin shoes and many many interesting things. The little store was packed with so much stuff that it was difficult to walk through the aisles. They also had great ice cream!

The Big Nickel

We also stopped at the Big Nickel in Sudbury for some pictures. The Big Nickel is a nine-metre (30 ft) replica of a 1951 Canadian nickel, located at the grounds of Dynamic Earth in Sudbury. The Big Nickel has an interesting history behind it. The idea of the Big Nickel was conceived by a firefighter to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Canada. He had to overcome a lot of obstacles, including the government’s lack of initial support, and the inability to raise funds. However, he persisted, and the Big Nickel has become a landmark for Sudbury. It is inspiring to see how persistence can pay off in the long run.

• The drive from Toronto is long. Make sure you have frequent stops. It helps to have great company and great music! It is also important that you stretch your legs and have a good back support along the way.
• You can also fly to Sault Ste. Marie from Toronto. It is a much quicker an-hour-and-a-half flight.
• If you are looking for something more active, you should check out the water activities that Sault Ste. Marie has to offer. Ontario north has plenty of opportunities to kayak, canoe, paddle-board, and more.

As someone who loves trains and loves nature, the Agawa Canyon train ride is certainly something I thoroughly enjoyed. It is easy on the feet and very scenic. You can certainly add in some more active activities such as water sports while you are at Sault Ste. Marie.

I enjoyed the trip thoroughly, and I hope you feel the same.

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2 thoughts on “Agawa Canyon Fall Colour Train Tour Review: A 3-Day Trip to Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario”

Great recap, very helpful – we’re planning an Agawa Canyon trip ourselves this fall. I have a few questions: When in October did you go? Do you think you picked the best time for fall colours? If you went again is there anything you would do differently? Thanks! HelenL

We went during the first week of October. We could see lots of shades of yellow and red, but still some greens. So perhaps the second week of October might also be a good time? I personally wouldn’t do anything differently, but perhaps you might want to bring your own lunch if you don’t like what’s provided on the train (a sandwich, a small salad and a simple dessert)?

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Agawa Canyon & Muskoka Steamship

Experience the stunning fall foliage of Northern Ontario on a bus trip to Sault Ste Marie. Enjoy the breathtaking Agawa Canyon Train Tour, a visit to the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Museum and more. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region while enjoying exciting activities and sights.

•  Detailed Overview
•  Tour Itinerary
•  Other Information
•  Pick-up Points
•  Departure Dates
•  Suggested Tours

September 23-26, 2024

Don't miss out - we only have 6 seats left.

Due to demand, we've added a second date for this trip on September 16-19. Click here for more information.

Join us on an adventure to see fall foliage – it’s the perfect way to celebrate the start of cozy season!

The Agawa Canyon train tour is the most popular iconic railway to enjoy the rugged beauty of Northern Ontario. The train departs from the station in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario and travels through 200 km of beautiful scenery through the forests of the Canadian Shield. Take in the lakes, rivers and towering trestles that inspired some of the Group of Seven.

As we continue on our colourful journey, we will find ourselves on a Steamship Cruise in Gravenhurst, Ontario. Our cruise will take us through the Lake Muskoka region as we learn about its incredible history and have the opportunity to see its breathtaking scenery.

All aboard… next stop is Northern Ontario!  

What’s Included:

Agawa Canyon Train Tour

Muskoka Steamship Cruise

Admission to the Muskoka Discovery Centre

Guided tour and admission to the Canadian Bush Plane Heritage Centre

3 Nights hotel accommodation

8 Meals (3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners)

Roundtrip transportation aboard a McCoy Deluxe Motorcoach

Full Services of a McCoy Getaways Tour Director

Package Cost:

This getaway includes a two night stay at the Quality Inn and Suites in Sault Ste. Marie and a one night stay at the Best Western Plus in Parry Sound. The prices shown below are the all-in prices (per person) for the entire tour package including the transportation, accommodations, meals, and excursions.

Included Meals:

For this getaway, the included lunch during the Agawa Canyon Train Tour and dinner at Blake's Memories of Muskoka must be selected at the time of booking. Please make sure to tell us of any dietary restrictions in the Special Needs field when entering your passenger information during checkout.

North 82 Steak and Seafood:

The included dinner at this restaurant will be served family style and include the following items.

• Caesar Salad

Garden Salad

• Grilled Salmon
• Baked Lasagna
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes
• Dessert TBD

Agawa Canyon Boxed Lunch:

All sandwiches come with a little dessert, fruit and a bottle of water. (Gluten Free, Vegetarian, and Vegan options are available)

Ham + Cheese on a Ciabatta Bun or Wrap

Turkey on a Ciabatta Bun or Wrap

Roast Beef Ciabatta Bun or Wrap

Vegetarian Wrap

Blake's Memories of Muskoka:

Chicken or Veggie Stir Fry on a Bed of Rice in a Teriyaki Sauce

Fish & Chips - one piece of Fish served with Fries and Coleslaw

Pork Schnitzel served with Fries and Buttered Carrots

Caesar Salad with Chicken

Beef Dip Sandwich - Thinly shaved roast beef with melted cheddar cheese on a Parisian Garlic Bread with Horseradish Mayo, Au Jus for dipping, and Fries

For Dessert you'll have the choice of either Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Icing or Chocolate Fudge Cake with Chocolate Buttercream Icing

Muskoka Steamship Cruise:

Roast Turkey with Traditional Stuffing, Gravy, Cranberry Sauce, Mashed Potatoes and Seasonal Vegetables

Roasted Quinoa, Rice and Tempeh Stuffed Pepper with Home Made Tomato Sauce and Seasonal Vegetables (Vegan, Lactose Free, Gluten Free Option)

For dessert you'll be served a decadent Gluten Free Brownie with Coffee and Tea available.

GIOVANNI'S Italian Restaurant: This family-style meal will include the following menu items for you to enjoy:

Bruschetta and Antipasto Caprese

Penne Pasta and Meatballs

Roast Chicken & BBQ Ribs

Beans & Roasted Potatoes

Dessert - Spumoni Ice Cream

Coffee/ Tea

*GIOVANNI'S can accommodate any allergies and dietary restrictions if necessary.

Departure Locations & Times:

We have four convenient locations available to board the bus during this getaway. Please make sure to arrive at your pick up location roughly 10-15 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

Day 1 - September 23

We will depart from the Mccoy Getaways Office at 6:00am and continue to Napanee, Belleville and Cobourg to collect the rest of our group. Once everyone is on board, we will begin our journey to Sault Ste. Marie to see some beautiful fall colours! We will be stopping at the Georgian Bay Travel Centre to have a quick lunch on your own. As we continue North, we will take a quick break at the Northwest Trading Company as our last comfort stop before we arrive at our destination in Sault Ste. Marie. We arrive in Sault Ste Marie around 5:30pm and stop for dinner at North 82 Steak and Seafood Restaurant. After dinner, we will check into the Quality Inn and Suites around 8:00pm. The rest of the night is yours to relax.

Day 2 - September 24

After we enjoy our included breakfast at the hotel, we will depart the hotel for our Agawa Canyon Train Tour! Your all-day adventure begins at 8:00am; it's time to sit back, relax and take in all of the beautiful fall colours that Northern Ontario has to offer. There will be boxed lunches provided on the train as your included lunch for the day. At 6:00pm the train will return to Sault Ste. Marie; we will then board our motorcoach and make our way to our included family-style dinner this evening at Giovanni's Italian Restaurant. After a delicious meal, we will head back to our hotel. The remainder of your evening is free.

Day 3 - September 25

Breakfast is included this morning before we check out of our hotel in Sault Ste. Marie. Just before 9:00am we will head to the Canadian Bush Plane Heritage Centre. This interactive museum features two dozen planes, including the first Beaver float plane produced. We will enjoy a one-hour guided tour of the centre. The tour consists of entertaining storytelling of the history and evolution of the bush plane and a showing of the Wildfires movie (a firefighting adventure in 3D). Don't forget to check out the gift shop! We will depart the museum at 11:00am and head to Espanola for a late lunch and to visit the Trading Post. Around 2:30pm our tour continues as we make our way to Parry Sound. We will check into the Best Western Plus around 5:00pm and then head out for our included dinner tonight. We will arrive at Blake's Memories of Muskoka around 6:00pm; this local spot has a comfortable cottage vibe with great service. After our meal, we will head back to our hotel and the remainder of your evening is free!

Day 4 - September 26

Our breakfast is included this morning at our hotel. We will have a nice relaxing morning before heading to the Muskoka Discover Centre in Gravenhurst at 9:30am. We will arrive at the centre at 10:30am and have an hour to explore this one-of-a-kind museum; the innovative museum showcases Muskoka's history and ever-evolving present. At 11:45am, we will board the Wenonah II; a modern interpretation of a traditional steamship and named in honour of Wenonah, the first steamship to sail Lake Muskoka. Enjoy your included lunch while being surrounded by the beautiful Muskoka Lakes, massive mansions, and colourful foliage. It's the one-of-a-kind way to experience Muskoka! After a relaxing afternoon on the water, we will board our motorcoach and begin our journey home. There will be a comfort stop along the way.

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner

A deposit of $200 is required at the time of booking.

Balance is due 60 days prior to departure.

Refunds are not available within 60 days of travel.

Regular stops will be made for comfort breaks and meals.

For the comfort of fellow passengers, kindly refrain from using scented products and perfumes.

If you have any food allergies we should be aware, please let us know during the time of booking.

Tipping for driver and escort is voluntary depending on the quality of service.

McCoy Getaways strongly recommends purchasing Cancellation & Emergency Medical Insurance for multi-day or out of country tours. Manulife Insurance is available through McCoy Getaways.

Below is a list of pick-up points available on this tour.

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Pick-up Point Times

To make a booking firstly select the correct number of passengers that will be travelling. This will perform an availability check to see that there is sufficient space on the tour. If the date you want is available select the Book Now button and you will be guided through the online booking process. If your date is unavailable you can use the Call Back facility to discuss further options.

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The Twin Cedars

the cutest little fishing resort in Michigan's Upper Peninsula perfectly located to access all the best attractions

Spectacular Agawa Canyon Fall Color Tour

by Meghan Klave Filed Under: things to do

Bob and I have gotten to the point in our marriage that physical gifts are no longer needed. If I’m going to be completely honest with you – he’s never been a great gift giver anyway. Shhh… don’t tell him I said that! But, alas he’s redeemed himself anyway with this Agawa Canyon Color Tour.

Did you hear about the time he bought me a computer monitor for Christmas? …because we needed one?? And that’s not even the worst part! He wrapped the HDMI cables in a pretty box complete with a bow.

Seriously??!! – hahahahaa

I’ve never been one to complain about gifts but that year was the exception. It could’ve been what prompted my future detailed lists of appropriate gifts for a wife.

Anyway, he’s now learning that I’d much rather have experiences than another object to fill our house.

Agawa Canyon Color Tour

Just as I bought him our first Pictured Rocks paddle for his birthday, he reciprocated with a lovely Agawa Canyon Train Color Tour for mine. We had so much fun getting away for the night and taking in the gorgeous, blooming fall color.

I’m all about sharing some pretty photos with you but I also think there’s value in providing some really important tips!

First of all Bob is quite the planner. Honestly he can seem a bit too regimented with his itineraries but it typically comes in handy for me. I can sit back, enjoy the ride and know he’s done all the research to make certain we have a good time.

There were a couple snafus this time… read on!

Train Tour Tip #1

So this may seem like common sense to most people but keep in mind that we left our house at 5:30 am to make sure we were at the train stop on time. *Remember! The direction that the train comes in is the same direction that it will go out.

Which brings me to the fact that you’ll want to sit facing the direction you’ll be heading. You see, some of these train cars have seats that face each other. Meaning some people are bound to be going backwards during their tour.

Also, in this particular case, sitting on the east side of the train car is essential if you want to take in the beauty of the Agawa River that is visible almost the entire 114 mile trip.

So of course Bob and I were half asleep and direction disoriented when we took our seats.

Backwards and the wrong side! Every time I think about it I crack up. How did we both miss this?

That’s us! Still terrible at taking selfies but we thought it was funny that one of the cars said Trout Lake – the little home town where our resort resides.

If you’re not sure which way is north and picking the east side of the train seems confusing, just remember that the direction the train pulls into the station is north and as you’re facing north, east will be on your right.

Ok, got it? Good!

Train Tour Tip #2

Do not, I repeat, DO NOT eat the food on this train.

For some reason we were picturing a sweet little dining car with lovely service and expensive, yet, delightful treats.

This could not be further from the truth!

I won’t go into the ugly details but please heed this warning. Pack your own little cooler and savor it. Also, (you did not hear this from me) I highly doubt anyone would notice if you had a thermal cup with your beverage of choice… just don’t be sloppy people, ok?

Train Tour Tip #3

There’s some very informative narrative during the 4 hour trip towards Agawa Canyon. Personally I love hearing about the area history and geography. However, those sitting near you may not.

And while some of the loud chatting was annoying it might also be one of my favorite parts of the tour. A very lively and friendly Indian family sat just opposite Bob and I. The laughter and general cheery nature had me giggling even though I had no clue what they were saying.

I’ve also learned that they don’t accept a polite ‘no’ as an answer when offering their native cuisine. And while I tend to be the more adventurous eater between the 2 of us, Bob was unable to escape this time.

This alone was worth every penny! Cause when you’re sitting across from someone and they’re watching you eat their homemade food, you cannot simply wrap it in your napkin and discard it if you don’t like it.

You smile, you nod and you compliment. This is the right thing to do. My husband complied with this unspoken rule, he’s such a gentleman.

And for me, it was an unforgettable experience. Who knew one could be exposed to such diverse cultures on a color tour train?

Train Tour Tip #4

Wear comfortable clothes and shoes appropriate for an easy hike. The train stops for approximately 90 minutes once you arrive at Agawa Canyon and there are many trails to explore.

Amazing waterfalls, gorgeous views and one heck of a stair case. Each main trail loop is marked with an approximate time it takes to hike. However, those times are very generous and if you’re moving at a decent pace it’s definitely possible to see them all.

The train gives a 10 minute warning whistle before departing the park, so keep your ears alert and an eye on the time.

Train Tour Tip #5

There are people that travel into Canada from all over the world who take the train tour into Agawa Canyon. That means there are a lot, I mean A LOT of people. When you stop at the bottom of the canyon everyone will disperse but you’ll likely find that traversing the 300 stairs for a birds eye view may be difficult in more ways than one.

Watch out for selfie sticks and, if it’s raining, umbrellas. It’s possible to lose an eyeball if you’re not paying attention in the close railing quarters of the wooden staircase.

Ahhh, but the view is totally worth it… you’ve got 2 eyes after all… what’s one less? 😉

Train Tour Tip #6

If you need a little peace and quiet there’s actually a train car with tables and chairs that’s completely empty. I suspect this was once that sweet little dining car I pictured so vividly in my mind.

So while I loved our new-found Indian friends, Bob and I chose to be seated here for our return.

And since we were sitting on the wrong side of the train and going backwards on the way there, we were able to see the gorgeous landscape from the other side this time.

The river and its white rapids with the fall backdrop was absolutely stunning!

Train Tour Tip #7

It’s a long train ride into Agawa Canyon. 114 miles resulting in 4 hours each way with an hour and a half stop, makes for a long day. The trip narration is turned off during your return to Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario.

I would highly recommend bringing something to do. A deck of cards to play in that abandoned dining car. A good book to read or headphones for listening to a favorite podcast.

Just keep in mind that you’re in another country which may cause roaming charges. We put our phones on airplane mode, disconnected and took everything in.

It was perfect!

According to the most recent schedule, the Agawa Canyon Tour Train runs from late June through mid October and I’ve heard they open for a couple of winter tour dates.

I can only imagine the beauty of winter from this point of view.

I’m slowly checking off my Upper Peninsula bucket list but there’s still a lot more to go. Be sure to follow all our shenanigans over on Facebook and get on the Instagram bandwagon, if you haven’t already.

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

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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

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Agawa Canyon Train

North Shore of Lake Superior

Agawa Canyon fall reflections

The Agawa Canyon Train

Agawa Canyon

Fall Colours with a Canadian Signature Experience!

Explore Ontario’s majestic north and witness the rugged Canadian Shield, awash in vibrant autumn colours. Breathe in Tobermory’s cooling bay breezes as you admire the turquoise waters of this quaint harbour town. Cross Devil’s Gap aboard the Chi-Cheemaun ferry to Manitoulin Island, the largest freshwater island in the world!

Once in Sault Ste Marie, there are two options. With one, it’s “All aboard the Agawa Canyon Train!” Enjoy the passing landscapes and explore the canyon during a lunch break before you begin the return trip, snaking back through ravines and crossing gorges on trestle bridges. With stunning scenery and a relaxing train excursion, this is a quintessential Canadian experience. Alternatively, take a guided Lake Superior Coastal drive. View the distinct landscapes that inspired The Group of Seven artists over a hundred years ago, visit the Voyageur’s Lodge and Lake Superior Provincial Park, and enjoy one of the most scenic drives in Ontario.

Related Tours:  Agawa Canyon - American Edition, Québec Resort Getaway

Activity Rating

Fitness Scale: Level 3

Breakfasts: 3

Pickup: Route   A * *Pickup points west of Brampton are NOT available on this tour.

Take a Train Ride 

Board one of North America’s most popular train tours and chug across 182 kilometres of Ontario’s north. Relax and take in the stunning scenery through large viewing windows or see through the eyes of the train engineer with monitors in the coaches. Descend 500 feet to the floor of the Agawa Canyon and enjoy a stopover where time is given to explore the spectacular landscape. Even listen to stories of the Ojibway, fur traders, and explorers with commentary provided during your train ride. The Agawa Canyon Wilderness Park, accessible only by rail, is largely untouched.  Enjoy a picnic by the river, climb the lookout tower for a panoramic view of the canyon, or follow the river trail to Black Beaver and Bridal Veil Falls to see landscapes that, a century ago, inspired The Group of Seven artists.

First Nation Culture

The history of Ontario, and the culture of the region will be evident throughout this tour.  We’ll have rest stops at trading posts, hop aboard the “Big Canoe”, the Ojibwe translation for the Chi Cheemaun Ferry , and travel to Mnidoo Mnising, the Odawa name for Manitoulin Island, a sacred place of the Anishinaabe people. 

Become a Pilot and hang out in the hangar!

Well, not really but you will have the opportunity to climb aboard vintage airplanes or ride the flight simulator at the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre. Enjoy a guided tour and learn about the history of aviation and forest fire protection. As a special experience, dinner will be served in the hanger, with the unique ambiance provided by the planes!

Meet a Voyageur

Yes, with the “scenic drive” option, we’ll meet one of those fur traders and with his “Canoe Talk”, we’ll hear about the life and times and adventures of the Voyageurs.  Inspired by the book by Canadian author, Peter C. Newman, “The Company of Adventurers”, the O’Connor family opened The Voyageur’s Lodge , and provides a deliciously memorable stop along the north shore of Lake Superior.

Stand in the spots that inspired the Group of Seven!

Stand on the shore of Lake Superior and breath in the same vistas experienced by famous Canadian artists. Perhaps you’ll share the sentiment of J.E.H. Macdonald, "The most impressive sight on this trip was a view of Lake Superior. There was a sharpness in the air which merged the horizon with the sky and that smooth shimmering infinity of waters …”

Why This Tour is Great

It Features a Canadian Signature Experience

Designated a Canadian Signature Experience , a ride on the Agawa Canyon Train is considered one of Canada’s once-in-a-lifetime adventures.

Get Close to Nature

The different modes of transportation offered on this tour allow you to see the beautiful features of Ontario. See Canada’s rugged landscape ablaze with vibrant autumn colours. Marvel at the crystal-clear waters and the geological wonders carved by glaciers and prehistoric waterfalls.

Agawa Canyon Wilderness Park

Accessible only by rail, this untouched land is a wonder to behold. Enjoy a picnic by the river where there is a display of antique railroad equipment. Walk amongst the floral and fauna and climb the lookout tower for a panoramic view of the canyon. Or follow the River Trail to Black Beaver and Bridal Veil Falls where you might catch a glimpse of playful river otters or beavers.

Bring your friends and enjoy the fall colours together, even if one person would prefer not to take the train ride.  On that day, in the comfort of the coach, enjoy one of the most scenic drives in Ontario!

What's Included

• Private coach transportation
• Our unique Connections Program
• 3 nights accommodation
• 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners
• Services of a Professional Tour Director

Prices are in Canadian dollars, are per person, and include HST.

Included Highlights

• Tobermory 
• Chi-Cheemaun Ferry 
• Ten Mile Point Trading Post & Gallery
• Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre with Dinner
• Manitoulin Island 

Included Options:

1. Agawa Canyon Train Excursion   OR

2. Guided Lake Superior Coast Drive with

• Voyageur's Lodge & Canoe Talk
• Lake Superior Provincial Park

Day-to-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Travel to Tobermory

Travel along the Niagara Escarpment, and enjoy the changing topography and colourful vistas up to Tobermory, a quaint harbour town. Tonight, enjoy dinner with fellow guests.

Stay: Bruce Anchor Inn (1 night)

Day 2: Chi-Cheemaun Ferry, Manitoulin Island, Canadian Bushplane Museum

Today you will board the Chi-Cheemaun ferry to cross the main channel between Georgian Bay and Lake Huron, on your way to Manitoulin Island. Visit the Ten Mile Point Trading Post & Gallery, and browse the unique handcrafts and artwork. After enjoying an included lunch in Manitoulin Island, we journey onward to Sault Ste. Marie and the Canadian Bushplane Museum.  Here we’ll enjoy a guided tour and special dinner in the hangar among the planes!

Stay: Delta Waterfront Hotel, Sault Ste Marie (2 nights)

Meals: B, L, D

Day 3: Agawa Canyon Train OR Guided Lake Superior Scenic Drive

Option 1: The Train!  Enjoy an early breakfast at your hotel before boarding the train. Travel to the Agawa Canyon, with the vibrant autumn colours out in full display. You will have an hour and a half to stroll the canyon base and enjoy your boxed lunch while taking in the breathtaking vista and landscapes. 

Option 2: The Guided Scenic Drive!  Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before boarding the coach along with your local guide.  Stop at the Voyageur’s Lodge and meet a Voyageur.  Hear his stories of travelling and living on these Lake Superior shores, and enjoy the lodge’s famous fritters!  In Lake Superior Provincial Park, learn about the “Power of Lake Superior” and the park’s cultural history. Enjoy the stunning scenery with insights from the local guide and see some of the specific spots that inspired the Group of Seven.

Following both options, return to your hotel for a free evening to explore and soak up sweeping views of St. Mary’s River.

Meals: B, L

Day 4: Travel Home

Our journey home goes through Sudbury, where you’ll enjoy a farewell lunch with your fellow travellers.  Then sit back and enjoy the autumn leaves go by as you travel home.

Accommodations

• Bruce Anchor Inn , Tobermory (1 night)
• Delta Hotel Sault Ste. Marie Waterfront , Sault Ste Marie (2 nights)

Important Info for this Tour

This tour includes our unique Connections Program , and follows a special travel Route A *, picking up in the following locations:

• Peterborough
• Bowmanville

*Pickup points west of Brampton are NOT available on this tour.

Did you know?

The landscapes painted by The Group of Seven, are an important part of the heritage of Canada, and it may enrich the experiences on this trip to be re-acquainted with their story and their work. The Agawa Canyon Train and the Scenic Coastal Drive include sites that inspired these artists. When the train stops in the Agawa Canyon Park, be sure to walk towards Bridal Veil Falls where you’ll see specific landscapes that inspired some of the sketches by Lawren Harris and J.E.H. MacDonald. With the Scenic Drive option, when in Lake Superior Provincial Park, be sure to walk down to the beach.

"The Big Canoe" Chi Cheemaun Ferry

Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre

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Agawa Canyon Tour Train

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Agawa Canyon Tour Train - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Agawa Canyon Fall Colours Tour

Single tour.

Agawa Canyon is a shallow canyon located deep in the sparsely populated Algoma District in NE Ontario. It was created 1.2 billion years ago. Fall is the best time to visit the site, it is during late September through early October is when the leaves usually change color. The hardwood forests surrounding the Agawa Canyon light up with crimson and gold of autumn. It is the breathtaking scenic view that attracts tourists and keeps the train ride fascinating. Tour Date: October 1-3, 2022 (3 Days 2 Nights) Price: $520 per pax

• Experience a breathtaking 10 hr train ride to appreciate the scenic view of the hardwood forest surrounding Agawa Canyon.
• Photo shoot opportunity at Big Nickel, Sudbury
• Visit at the Sacred Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes
• Round trip motor coach bus transportation
• One Agawa Canyon Tour Train Ticket (10 hr ride)
• Enjoy a relaxing 2 Nights Stay at Quattro Hotel and Conference Center with Indoor Saltwater Pool and 2 Hot breakfasts included
• Light Snacks & Bottled Water
• Driver tip and taxes included

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