Agawa Canyon Tour Train — Local services in Sault Ste. Marie

There was so much hype about this so my husband & I decided to go. It’s an 8 hr drive from Toronto. It’s best if you also visit places along the way such as The Big Nickel etc to make it worthwhile. Before the day of the train tour, I tried to read all reviews that I can find about the tour so I will know what to do and expect. Lots of negative ones but I didn’t let these dampen my interest as the tickets were already bought ($160/pax). We arrived in SSM at 230pm so we decided to pick up the hard copies of our train tickets so we don’t need to do that early in the morning before the tour. Our tickets already had us assigned to Car #2. There were no seats indicated. If you are facing the train tracks with your back from the office building, the train will come from the left side. The first cars to come will be the higher numbered cars 17/18. The Stone Gardner ($500/person) will be the first car to arrive. It has the glass to get the full view when going to the Agawa Canyon but will have the back of the locomotive when returning back to the Train Station so choose to spend your money wisely even if it includes the food. The $500 fee in my opinion is still way too expensive. Anyway, we arrived at 650am on the day of the tour thinking we are the first but there were already quite a few waiting on the platform. First of all, there were no markings of whatsoever so you will not know where to line up. At 720am, an usher came and instructed us to group together Cars 1,2&3 as we will be going in 1 door. Then 5,6,7 in another and so forth. No indication again where the door will be unlike when we line up at the subway, the doors were already estimated where they’ll be. So expectedly, people will try to enter tightly. Then we had to choose the RIGHT SIDE seats as the previous reviews said the right side of the train will have the better views. Take note, when the train goes back, you will still sit on the same seats. You can leave some things to secure your seats & to guide you as well. When going to the Canyon, being in Car#2, we were on the right side and our car/coach was ahead among the other cars. When going back to station from the canyon, the Stone Gardner will be the first car and ours will be second to the last. The train doesn’t go around. Bring your own drinks/food/snacks as train food is expensive. A sandwich is $8.99 plus tax and 18% gratuity. No alcoholic beverages allowed. You can buy beer though. Upon arriving at the Canyon, you’re reminded to come back at 130pm (1.5 hr given to do the lookout, hike to the Bridal Veil & Beaver Falls). Time estimates for the lookout 45 minutes, Bridal Veil Falls 40 minutes & Beaver Falls 30 minutes all of these are time estimates to do the activities back & forth. We went to do the 372 steps first to the lookout before going to the Bridal Veil Falls which is almost a 4km hike back & forth. The lookout was a challenge to take and an accomplishment after if taken. The Falls were a disappointment because there were not much water cascading from the top, almost just trickling. The scenery of the foliages changing their colors can be enjoyed if you’re taking the trip around mid October. Everyone’s energy were low on our return trip. If people were excited taking whatever pictures they can take going to the Canyon, it’s the opposite on return. Once we arrived at the station, people from Cars 1-5 had to go out by 1 door at Car#5. Imagine the wait. In my own opinion, the long drive, the $160 ticket price & the stress to accomplish the activities while at the canyon within 90 mins just made the trip...

Embark on the Agawa Canyon Tour Train and discover a transformative experience that harnesses the raw beauty of Northern Ontario, inspiring a sense of wonder in those who travel through Sault Ste. Marie's breathtaking landscapes.

Be prepared for a scenic journey, with a round-trip duration of 8 hours, divided equally between traveling to Agawa Canyon and returning to the depot.

We arrived at the depot by 7:30 am, ready to embark on our journey by 8 am. Despite the crowd, the staff facilitated a remarkably smooth boarding process. We made our way to the lookout, where we were treated to breathtaking vistas that left us in awe. Although the fall colors weren't as vibrant as anticipated, they still displayed a orange-yellow hue with hints of red, serving as a poignant reminder of nature's ability to surprise and inspire us. 🍁

After taking in the breathtaking views at the top, we made our way down with a sense of urgency, driven by the ticking clock. We seized the opportunity to stroll along the train tracks and paused briefly to capture some photos at the river bank. The train's loud whistles signaled our cue, and we had a thrilling 10 minutes to snap a few final shots with the train front. Although we didn't have time to explore the waterfall, we left feeling invigorated by the experience.

The train's food and beverage options were reasonably priced. Although the seats had limited legroom, we were considerate of our fellow travelers, sitting across from us. For future trips, I'd consider upgrading to the Stone Gardner coach, which offers a unique experience with its expansive rear window, complimentary meals, and comfortable seating. It is well worth the premium price of $500.

Here are my thoughts on the train experience, highlighting areas for growth and opportunities for enhancement.

One potential improvement for this train tour is allocating more time to explore the park, as the current 1.5 hours can feel a bit rushed. With so many attractions to see – including the 300-step lookout, two waterfalls, trails, riverbank, it can be challenging to fit everything in.

The upgrading the train's seating, could significantly enhance passenger comfort.

The train ride features insightful commentary that enhances the experience, offering a deeper understanding of the area's history and ecology. The train thoughtfully slows down at popular spots, allowing passengers to capture memorable photos.

The staff, both on the train and at the station, exemplify exceptional service, showcasing genuine warmth, helpful expertise, and unwavering professionalism. Every query receives prompt, clear, and empowering responses. Their diligence in maintaining immaculate washrooms is truly commendable. Without the distraction of Wi-Fi, passengers can fully engage with the breathtaking scenery, fostering a deeper connection with nature. A remarkable display of integrity was demonstrated when the staff made a concerted effort to reunite a lost pair of sunglasses with their rightful owner.

The breathtaking double rainbow that appeared in the sky was the perfect finale to our trip, leaving us with an unforgettable...

Good experience in Sault Ste. Marie. The train depot was nice and clean. The customer service was good. I would recommend getting there as early as you can. The train cars are assigned however not the seating. There are 4 seats facing each other. We were blessed to be around people who made the experience great. Your tickets will be collected once the train gets going. Even if you made your purchase on line you get your physical tickets inside the building. We traveled with some light snacks and water. We wanted to make some food purchases on the train just for the experience. What we ordered wasn't nasty however nothing to brag about. The employees throughout the trip were fantastic. Always around and available to assist in any way. This day was full but not extremely busy as we've been told that it can be. It was cool to walk through the cars to get to the cafe, dining area and gift shop. The walk will be shaky for anyone that deals with motion sickness or such. The gift shop is a little counter space but worth walking through the cars to see. Gift shop does not take cash. Each car had at least two restrooms which was great. They will narrate going but not coming so be sure to pay attention. I would also recommend taking something to entertain you on your travel back. The travel back wasn't as exciting as going. Once you get to the canyon you have the option to do whatever you would like. Everyone has to get off at least for the first 30 minutes then you're able to get back on. A lot of people that brought their food ate at the picnic area. I would recommend you eat on the train before or after seeing the canyon which is what my husband and I did. You will only have 1 1/2 hrs to view the canyon and water falls which is not a large area at all. If you can physically walk and go up stairs, you can view it all in the time given. The 300 + stairs is manageable if you take your time. There is a spot destinated if you don't want to go up all the way. The best view is up top. Wear comfortable shoes and perhaps some you don't mind getting dirty depending the weather is how the ground will be. Restrooms and medics are provided at the canyon. You may keep your belongings on the train however they are not responsible for them. You will loose internet service. The train will blow giving passengers 10...