Other Scenic and Tourist Railways

Beyond the famous long-distance rail journeys, Canada is home to a wonderful collection of scenic and heritage railways that offer unique ways to experience the country’s spectacular landscapes. From vintage steam trains and historic narrow-gauge railways to scenic mountain routes and charming heritage excursions, these railways showcase Canada’s rich railway history while taking visitors through some of its most beautiful regions.

Whether you’re travelling through the forests of British Columbia, exploring the dramatic scenery of the Canadian Rockies, discovering the maritime provinces or enjoying a leisurely day trip through picturesque countryside, these railways provide memorable experiences for railway enthusiasts, families and anyone looking to see Canada from a different perspective.

Many of these railways operate for only part of the year, making them ideal additions to a wider Canadian holiday. Some offer half-day excursions, while others provide full-day journeys complete with dining experiences, themed events and seasonal specials.

⭐ Featured Scenic Railways

Canada is home to a wonderful collection of scenic and heritage railways, each offering a unique glimpse into the country’s landscapes, history and railway heritage. Whether you’re looking for dramatic mountain scenery, nostalgic steam trains or a relaxing countryside excursion, there’s a railway to suit every traveller. Here are some of the highlights.

🚂 Agawa Canyon Tour Train – Ontario

Departing from Sault Ste. Marie, the Agawa Canyon Tour Train takes passengers deep into the rugged wilderness of Northern Ontario. The full-day journey crosses spectacular trestle bridges, winds through granite canyons and dense forests, before arriving at Agawa Canyon Park, where passengers can explore scenic walking trails and waterfalls.

🚂 White Pass & Yukon Route – Yukon & Alaska

One of North America’s most famous heritage railways, the White Pass & Yukon Route climbs from Skagway in Alaska into Canada’s Yukon Territory. Built during the Klondike Gold Rush, this historic narrow-gauge railway traverses breathtaking mountain scenery, towering bridges and dramatic gorges, making it a favourite excursion for Alaska cruise passengers.

🚂 Kettle Valley Steam Railway – British Columbia

Located near Summerland in British Columbia’s beautiful Okanagan Valley, the Kettle Valley Steam Railway offers nostalgic journeys aboard a restored steam locomotive. The route crosses the impressive Trout Creek Trestle while providing stunning views of vineyards, orchards and Okanagan Lake.

🚂 Alberni Pacific Railway – British Columbia

Experience Vancouver Island’s railway heritage aboard the Alberni Pacific Railway. Operating heritage diesel and occasional steam excursions between Port Alberni and McLean Mill National Historic Site, this family-friendly railway combines beautiful forest scenery with fascinating local history.

🚂 Heritage Park Historical Village Railway – Calgary, Alberta

Step back in time at Calgary’s Heritage Park Historical Village, where an authentic steam railway forms part of Canada’s largest living history museum. Short rides offer visitors the chance to experience a traditional steam train while exploring historic buildings, vintage vehicles and life in Western Canada during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

🚂 Orford Express – Québec

The Orford Express combines fine dining with beautiful scenery as it travels through Québec’s picturesque Eastern Townships. Passengers can enjoy gourmet cuisine prepared using locally sourced ingredients while relaxing aboard beautifully restored heritage railway carriages.

🚂 Waterloo Central Railway – Ontario

Based in St. Jacobs, Waterloo Central Railway offers heritage diesel and seasonal steam train excursions through the rural landscapes of southwestern Ontario. Special themed events throughout the year include Christmas trains, harvest excursions and family-friendly experiences.

🚂 Prairie Dog Central Railway – Manitoba

Departing from Winnipeg, the Prairie Dog Central Railway is one of Canada’s oldest operating steam railways. This charming heritage line transports passengers across the Manitoba prairie to Grosse Isle Heritage Village, where costumed interpreters, historic buildings and family activities recreate life on the Canadian prairies.