To experience Northern Ontario’s late summer and fall splendor a ride on the Agawa Canyon Tour train may be just the adventure you are looking for. Departing Sault Ste. Marie daily - this season between June 21 and October 10 - the train meanders through the Canadian wilderness along the eastern shore of Lake Superior to the Agawa Canyon.

This day-long trip features a 90-minute layover at the Canyon, where adventurers are free to choose their level of activity. For the fit, there is a 250-foot hike up the canyon lookout trail to experience a “breathtaking, panoramic view of the canyon,” according to the website.

Nature lovers can stay close to the train and still experience much of the flora and fauna the canyon has to offer while enjoying a picnic lunch.

For those with moderate fitness abilities, a 40-minute, return-trip hike will take you to the Bridal Veil Falls, while experiencing the varied wildlife and plant life on several trails.

If some of the scenes experienced at the canyon seem familiar, it may not be a coincidence. According to the Agawa Canyon website: “Several members of Canada’s Group of Seven painted in the Algoma region between 1918 and 1923, including Lawern Harris, A.Y. Jackson, Franz Johnston, J.E.H. MacDonald and Arthur Lismer.

To gain access to this remote region they rented a boxcar from the Railway. Their paintings brought this vast, rugged and beautiful part of the country to fellow Canadians and the world.” Painters might like to bring along an easel and supplies to capture their particular experience on canvas.

As the season moves into late September and October, the fall colours become more spectacular. It is for this reason that the excursion prices vary. From June 21 to September 11, the tour costs $84.00 for adults, with discounts offered for seniors, youths and children. From September 12 to October 10, the tour costs $102.00 for adults and seniors, with discounts for youths and children remaining in effect. Children under two years old ride for free.