The Northlander
Ontario Northland is proud to be working toward the reinstatement of passenger rail in Northeastern Ontario!
The passenger train service, also known as the Northlander, will fundamentally shift how people move across the province, creating a more connected, integrated transportation network.
The Northlander train service will provide a safe and reliable transportation option between Toronto and Timmins, with a rail connection to Cochrane.
Planning and Updates
Many workstreams are currently in motion to prepare for the future service. Areas of focus include detailed design and engineering, environmental assessment, Indigenous and municipal consultation, as well as procurement.
New Train Sets
The new era of the Northlander will see three new trainsets enter into service. The Venture Trainset consists of one locomotive and three passenger cars.
Timmins Porcupine Station
Ontario Northland is prioritizing safety, accessibility and convenience in the new Timmins-Porcupine station. The station will serve as a waiting area for Northlander and motor coach passengers and Bus Parcel Express services.
Track Enhancements
Ontario Northland has completed several rail infrastructure projects to prepare for the return of the Northlander passenger train service.
Route & Locations
Proposed Service Schedule
| Station | Southbound | Northbound | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Timmins | 0:15 | 5:10 | |
| Matheson | 1:10 | 4:15 | |
| Kirkland Lake (Swastika) | 1:55 | 3:30 | |
| Englehart | 2:35-2:45 | Rest Stop | 2:40 - 2:50 |
| Temiskaming Shores | 3:15 | 2:10 | |
| Temagami | 4:15 | 1:10 | |
| North Bay | 5:45 - 5:55 | Rest Stop | 23:30-23:40 |
| South River | 7:00 | 22:25 | |
| Huntsville | 7:50 | 21:35 | |
| Bracebridge | 8:25 | 21:00 | |
| Gravenhurst | 8:40 | 20:45 | |
| Washago | 9:05 | 20:20 | |
| Gormley | 10:05 | 19:20 | |
| Langstaff | 10:20 | 19:05 | |
| Toronto (Union Station) | 10:55 | 18:30 | |
FAQ
The Northlander passenger rail service will operate four to seven days a week, based on seasonal travel demands.
Ticket prices will be determined closer to the launch of the service. We recognize affordability is important to passengers and Ontario Northland is committed to meeting those expectations.
The Northlander will carry passengers 740 kilometers between Toronto and Timmins, with a rail connection to Cochrane. The route includes 16 stops in communities along the way.
Ontario Northland prepared an Environmental Project Report for the Timmins-Porcupine Station Project in compliance with Ontario Regulation 231/08. After a temporary pause in the 120-day consultation period, which was communicated to the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks on September 20, 2024, the project assessment resumed on March 28, 2025. The deadline to issue the Notice of Completion was extended to April 3, 2025. During the pause, Ontario Northland continued to address key provincial priorities, including assessments of air quality and archaeological resources, to ensure both the natural and cultural environments were properly considered.
Timmins-Porcupine Station Environmental Assessment Information - March 14
Timmins-Porcupine Station Environmental Assessment Information - June 19
In April 2022, Ontario Northland released the Updated Initial Business Case, which included a preferred route from Toronto to Timmins with a rail connection to Cochrane.
Updated Initial Business Case - PDF
Ontario Northland is currently working to ensure that food accommodations, such as gluten-free and vegetarian options, are available on the menu at all times. These details are still being finalized and will be shared prior to the Northlander’s launch
Ontario Northland is currently reviewing policies and procedures for the forthcoming Northlander rail service, including those pertaining to service animals. These policies and procedures are expected to be published in 2026.
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Don’t miss an opportunity to contribute to the new era of the Northlander – visit our careers page to learn more about the available positions and apply today.