Published on
September 17, 2025
Ontario is set to revolutionize regional tourism and accessibility with the highly anticipated revival of the Northlander train, reconnecting Toronto with Muskoka’s lakes and forests, as well as northern communities like Gravenhurst, Bracebridge, Huntsville, and Timmins. Construction recently reached a critical milestone with the completion of a new rail bypass in North Bay, engineered to save travelers upwards of fifteen minutes and facilitate smoother transitions between passenger and freight rail. The Northlander, discontinued in 2012, is on course for a grand relaunch in 2026.
Milestone Achieved: Key Infrastructure Complete
The newly finished nine hundred eighty-two-metre North Bay Rail Bypass marks an essential phase in the restoration effort, ensuring that passenger trains will bypass the busy North Bay Rail Yard and avoid bottlenecks with CN and Ottawa Valley Railway freight lines. This improvement reflects Ontario’s dollar seventy five-million investment committed to bringing back the Northlander, including upgraded safety systems and modernized platform infrastructure at 16 stations from Toronto Union Station to Cochrane.
The first of three state-of-the-art Northlander train sets, built in partnership with Siemens Mobility Canada, is expected for delivery in early 2026. Delivery will be followed by several months of extensive testing and commissioning with Transport Canada’s oversight, guaranteeing world-class safety and reliability for all riders.
The Modern Northlander: Comfort, Connectivity, and Accessibility
Passengers can anticipate a transformative rail experience. Each train set will feature reclining seats, adjustable tray tables, Wi-Fi, USB charging ports, accessible washrooms, business meeting pods, and even spaces for bicycles. A focus on accessibility and comfort extends to raised, heated station platforms and enhanced lighting at stops in Matheson, Kirkland Lake, Temiskaming Shores, Temagami, and more.
These new amenities reflect passenger demand for inclusive, sustainable travel alternatives to highway congestion, expanding access to Ontario’s natural beauty for local residents, tourists, and international visitors.
Economic and Tourism Benefits for Muskoka and Beyond
The tight integration between Toronto and Muskoka via direct, fast rail is poised to redefine Ontario’s tourism landscape. The Northlander’s return enables city dwellers, international tourists, and non-drivers to reach premier destinations in the heart of cottage country, affectionately called the “Hamptons of the North.” By opening up seamless access to Gravenhurst, Bracebridge, and Huntsville, the rail line is expected to fuel local hospitality growth, generate new business opportunities, and lengthen the tourist season.
Additionally, by connecting Toronto to Timmins and Cochrane, the Northlander will offer vital links to northern industries, enhance labor mobility, and improve access to health care, education, and remote recreational hubs.
Rail Revival: Sustainable, Inclusive, and Forward-Looking
This project is part of Ontario’s larger commitment to sustainable, low-carbon public transit solutions, appealing to the growing population of eco-conscious travelers. As car-free travel gains traction, the Northlander promises to alleviate road congestion, reduce emissions, and provide an affordable alternative to long drives, a decisive step toward future-ready tourism infrastructure.
New rail infrastructure lays the groundwork for expanded hospitality models, including affordable and inclusive lodging, ensuring Muskoka’s natural wonders remain accessible to all Ontarians and international guests regardless of income or mobility.
Next Steps: Countdown to 2026 Launch
With construction and manufacturing progressing on schedule and under budget, test runs for the Northlander will commence as soon as the first train sets arrive in early 2026. Ontario Northland, Siemens Mobility Canada, and Transport Canada will jointly oversee rigorous operational, safety, and comfort trials prior to the line’s anticipated public launch later that year.
Ontario’s Northlander Revival Ushers in New Tourism Era
The imminent return of the Northlander train signals a transformative leap for Ontario’s tourism, economy, and transportation equity. Urban and international travelers can look forward to a direct, comfortable, and environmentally sustainable journey to the famed landscapes of Muskoka and beyond, an achievement set to revive regional communities, strengthen economic growth, and elevate Ontario’s status as a world-class travel destination.
