Northlander train linking Toronto to Timmins set for relaunch in 2026. What we know about it

The provincially owned Northlander train between Toronto and northern Ontario is set to make a comeback. Operated by the provincially owned Ontario Northland Railway, the train service was discontinued in 2012 and replaced with buses. But it’s set to relaunch in 2026 with expanded service and new trains. The route will include 16 stops in total: Toronto’s Union Station, Langstaff, Gormley, Washago, Gravenhurst, Bracebridge, Huntsville, South River, North Bay, Temagami, Temiskaming Shores, Englehart, Kirkland Lake, Matheson, Timmins and Cochrane. The fully-accessible trains will include wheelchair lifts, wide aisles, braille signage for key features, audio and visual onboard announcements, and accessible washrooms. These amenities should make it appealing to a broader range of travellers, including families, seniors and people with disabilities . The trains will also have features such as power outlets and USB charging at every seat, Wi-Fi, spaces for bicycles, and a variety of seating options, including single-row seats and pods for groups. Since the service was cancelled, municipalities and Indigenous communities in northern Ontario have continuously called for its return. The service is expected to eventually transport between 40,000 and 60,000 riders a year. How have people in northern Ontario reacted to the relaunch? At a 2025 Northeastern Municipal Conference, Ontario Northland CEO Chad Evans announced the new era of the Northlander, reports Northern Ontario Business , adding that the announcement was met with enthusiasm from hundreds of delegates. The new service is expected to be a significant improvement, offering a safer and more reliable alternative to road travel , especially in harsh northern weather conditions. Surveys conducted in the region indicate broad public support for the return of passenger rail, with many residents expressing intent to use it. Indigenous communities have shown strong interest due to the affordability compared to car ownership. At community information events and open houses, people have expressed strong enthusiasm and support for the train’s comeback, with many looking forward to the convenience and connectivity it will provide, reports the Northern Nugget . Residents, workers and visitors will have a travel option connecting northern communities with major centres like Toronto . This is especially important for people who cannot or prefer not to drive, and for accessing essential services such as hospitals and specialized care, located far from smaller communities. What has the online reaction shown? Individuals are sharing their anticipation online about travel opportunities.

Promotional video for the Northlander train, coming 2026 by u/northernwaterchild in toronto

Social media posts from Ontario Northland reflect enthusiasm among residents. What will the relaunch mean for northern Ontario communities? Residents expect the relaunch to be a step toward revitalizing communities and supporting regional ambitions for growth and improved quality of life. The Northlander’s relaunch is expected to significantly boost tourism in northern Ontario by making the region more accessible, convenient and attractive to visitors from across Ontario and beyond. Local tourism operators are preparing to revive and expand packages and experiences that were previously popular when the train was running, such as “rails, trails and ales” tours that combine train travel with local attractions, breweries and outdoor activities. The new service will allow travellers — especially those from the GTA and international visitors arriving at Pearson Airport — to reach northern destinations without needing to drive or rent a car. The Ontario government and tourism organizations are investing in marketing and expanding tourism offerings to leverage the improved transportation link. The train will make it easier for people to attend festivals, cultural events and outdoor activities in northern Ontario, raising the region’s profile as a destination.

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