SAULT STE. MARIE SIGHTSEEING TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Epic Views From the Rear Window: Riding the Stone Gardner Car to Agawa Canyon
A detailed guide to upgrading to the Stone Gardner car on the Agawa Canyon Tour Train, covering what the car offers and the key logistics for the outing.
Epic Views From the Rear Window: Riding the Stone Gardner Car to Agawa Canyon.
Adventure brief
Epic Views From the Rear Window: Riding the Stone Gardner Car to Agawa Canyon
The Agawa Canyon Tour Train threads a ribbon of track through the Canadian Shield, carrying passengers into a sculpted northern landscape en route to Agawa Canyon Park. The outing pairs moving-window panoramas with interpretive commentary and a 90-minute stop at the canyon—an approachable way to experience rugged Northern Ontario without leaving your seat.
Located in Northern Ontario, the Agawa Canyon Tour Train offers a 4-hour rail journey that immerses travelers in the rugged beauty of the Canadian Shield. Departing from Sault Ste. Marie, this iconic train ride showcases dramatic rock formations, lush forests, and picturesque waterfalls. The highlight is a 90-minute stop at Agawa Canyon Park, where visitors can step off and explore the striking scenery up close. The canyon features towering quartzite cliffs, pristine streams, and vibrant flora that make it a photographer’s dream. The trip also provides captivating narration about the area's rich Indigenous history and the development of the railway, making it both a scenic and educational experience. What sets this tour apart is its ability to combine accessible adventure with a deep appreciation for the region's geological and cultural significance. Perfect for families, nature lovers, and history buffs alike, the journey through Northern Ontario’s wilderness creates a memorable window into the rugged landscapes that define this part of Canada. Whether you’re marveling at the panoramic vistas from the train’s windows or wandering the rugged canyons during your stop, the Agawa Canyon Tour Train is a cornerstone of Ontario’s outdoor recreation. The train runs seasonally, with scenic views especially spectacular during the fall when foliage turns fiery hues—a must-see for leaf-peepers. Local guides ensure that every traveler leaves with a newfound respect for this remote yet accessible wilderness. This expedition not only highlights the natural splendor but also emphasizes sustainability by respecting the environment and First Nations’ heritage. A trip on the Agawa Canyon Tour Train embodies the adventurous spirit of Northern Ontario, making it a uniquely absorbing journey into one of Canada’s most striking landscapes.
Route Schematic
Route & Key Stops
The tour proceeds from Sault Ste. Marie through the Canadian Shield to Agawa Canyon Park, with a lengthy stop at the canyon before returning.
Boarding in Sault Ste. Marie
Passengers begin the tour at the Sault Ste. Marie departure point before the train departs for the north.
Scenic run through the Canadian Shield
The route showcases the rugged geology and boreal landscapes of Northern Ontario as the train makes its way toward Agawa Canyon.
Agawa Canyon Park stop
The train pauses for a 90-minute stop at Agawa Canyon Park, allowing passengers to step off and take in the canyon.
Return to Sault Ste. Marie
After the stop at the canyon, the train completes the return leg back to the departure point in Sault Ste. Marie.
The Stone Gardner car is a restored 24-seat theater coach; seating in that upgrade is limited to 24 passengers.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
The Stone Gardner — a rear theater car
Located at the rear of the Agawa Canyon Tour Train, the restored Stone Gardner is a 24-seat theater car built around a large plate-glass rear window; the coach also features eight swivel lounge chairs to stretch out during the full-day tour.
Panoramas of the Canadian Shield
The onboard vantage in the Stone Gardner frames the rugged beauty of the Canadian Shield as the train approaches Agawa Canyon, putting dramatic vistas and geological texture on display for much of the route.
Meals and comfort included
Guests seated in the Stone Gardner receive complimentary breakfast, lunch and drinks during the outing; the premium car is an all-day upgrade option for travelers seeking added comfort and amenities.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
This is a paced, scenic sightseeing journey: the train carries you across Northern Ontario’s stony terrain with interpretive commentary, pauses for a substantial 90-minute visit to Agawa Canyon Park, and returns the group after a full-day outing.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who should consider the Stone Gardner upgrade — and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The provided schedule lists the total outing duration as 10 hours; the train journey portion to the canyon is described as a 4-hour run with a 90-minute stop at Agawa Canyon Park.
Passengers meet at 87 Huron St., Sault Ste. Marie, ON P6A 5P4.
No specific gear requirements are listed in the provided information.
The Stone Gardner car is offered as an upgrade; tickets for that coach are listed at $500 per person and include complimentary breakfast, lunch and drinks.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the overall outing?
The provided information lists the total duration of the outing as 10 hours.
How long is the train journey to Agawa Canyon?
The journey portion to the canyon is described as a 4-hour run, with a 90-minute stop at Agawa Canyon Park.
What is the stop at Agawa Canyon Park like?
The tour includes a 90-minute stop at Agawa Canyon Park for passengers to disembark and visit the canyon.
What does the Stone Gardner car include?
The Stone Gardner is a restored 24-seat theater car located at the rear of the Agawa Canyon Tour Train, featuring a large plate-glass rear window, eight swivel lounge chairs, and complimentary breakfast, lunch and drinks; tickets for this coach are listed at $500 per person.
Where do I meet before departure?
Meeting location is 87 Huron St., Sault Ste. Marie, ON P6A 5P4.
How many seats are in the Stone Gardner car?
The Stone Gardner car has 24 seats.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-10T12:13:13.080Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.