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 sense of wonder.