The New Northlander Train: don't hold your breath
 

Last year, the Ontario government held a presser to trumpet the fact that the looooooooooong-overdue Northlander train connecting Toronto with Cottage Country would finally be up and running in 2026. So far, that claim seems overly-optimistic. Those of us planning to, you know, make plans and reservations in hot spots like Muskoka have thus far been disappointed. Recent emails sent for clarification have gone unanswered. Not a good look for the government after promises made to taxpayers.
The numerous planned stops terminate at northerly Cochrane. Key stops mid-way will supposedly include Gravenhurst and Huntsville, which would be HUGE news for non-drivers.

Gotta love the quip once made in a certain guidebook (Moon? Rough Guide?):
'The main reason for visiting Cochrane is to leave again.'
Snarky, but 100% true.

I am done. the sighing ratepayer

Yesterday at the gym, a fellow member remarked that the business folks he knows up in key cottage country towns such as Huntsville are really pissed at the powers that be, cos they have been counting on the extra clientele created by said train.
Motels, restaurants, car rentals, taxis, tour guides, boat outfits and more have every right to complain about this, yet-another delay.
I am done. the choo-choo and the boo-boo

Cottage country around Muskoka is not a cheap area to even visit. Who would use the train? People who could not afford the area to begin with? That area is very overrated in my opinion. We prefer the Gatineau area in the wee mountains. Good luck with the train. I took a bus up to Gravenhurst many years ago.

From 'Destination Ontario'

The revived Ontario Northland Northlander passenger train service is scheduled to begin operation in 2026, with trains currently undergoing testing, including trips to North Bay as of late March/early April 2026. At this time there is no official start date for the Northlander. I would suggest signing up on the Ontario Northland Website for updates as they become available.

The service will operate between Toronto and Timmins (with connections to Cochrane) 4 to 7 days a week, featuring 16+ stops, including North Bay, Huntsville, and Bracebridge.

Proposed Schedule Details:

• Launch Timeframe: The train is expected to return to service later in 2026, pending the completion of testing for new trainsets.
• Route: The service will connect Toronto (Union Station) and Timmins, with 16 stops and a connection to the Polar Bear Express in Cochrane.
• Service Frequency: The schedule is designed for 4 to 7 days a week, depending on seasonal demand.
• Proposed Times: Proposed schedules show overnight service between Toronto (leaving ~6:30 p.m.) and Timmins.
• Stops: Key stops include Toronto (Union Station), Washago, Gravenhurst, Bracebridge, Huntsville, South River, and North Bay.
  
  
  

The new trainsets feature modern amenities including accessibility features, Wi-Fi, and charging ports. The Northlander site is the official resource for the latest updates

Forgot to mention another key aspect to this delay. The upcoming June FIFA soccer tournament will bring thousands of visitors from abroad to see Toronto for the first time. Apparently on average, each will spend an additional week in the city. No doubt, some of them would've appreciated an easy train ride north to explore the great north woods. One gets the impression that the provincial government is trying to downplay their having jumped the gun in announcing last year that the train would be up and running in 2026.
I am done. the disappointed