New York to Toronto Train – The Maple Leaf
When it comes to railway journeys, few are as exciting, famed as the Maple Leaf, the New York to Toronto train operated by both Amtrak and Via Rail. The train takes passengers on an international journey across North America, from the bright lights of New York to cosmopolitan Toronto – the capital of Ontario. The journey is spectacular, travelling through the scenic Hudson River Valley, New York’s wine country and the rugged gorges of the Finger Lakes and the majestic vistas of Niagara Falls. While it’s quite a long one, 12 hours, 30 minutes to be exact, it’s completely worth it – especially when travelling in Business Class and sipping on an ice-cold US craft beer.
Prices from: US $131
Departing from: New York, Toronto
Journey length: 12 hours, 30 minutes
New York to Toronto train route
The Maple Leaf train takes passengers from New York City to Toronto, crossing the US/Canada border and covering 875 kms. The entire journey takes 12 hours, 30 minutes (including two hours for border control), stopping at 21 stations. Passing from New York through the Hudson River Valley, New York state stops include Hudson, Albany and Buffalo, with the train passing by Niagara Falls and into Canada. Before reaching Toronto, Canadian stops include St Catherine’s, Aldershot and Oakville. The service runs daily in each direction and departs from New York City before 7am and Toronto around 9am. Passengers crossing into Canada will need to be over 18 and have proper documentation.
Maple Leaf train
The Maple Leaf is a modern, clean and comfortable train, offering both business class and reserved coach seating to passengers. Coach passengers have ample legroom, a fold-down tray, individual reading light and 120v electric outlets at their seat. Passengers travelling business class will have extra legroom, comfier seats, complimentary non-acholic drinks and a dedicated area of the train. Wi-fi is available on-board and the train also has a café service, serving breakfasts, light meals, hot sandwiches, salads and snacks – along with alcoholic and non=alcoholic beverages. While the Maple Leaf train uses Amtrak rolling stock, the train is operated by Via Rail crew while in Canada.
What we love
Riding the Maple Leaf feels like embarking on a real American road trip (just with comfier seats, alcoholic beverages and plenty of foods to snack on). It’s the perfect way to tick off some bucket list sights like New York City and Niagara Falls, and also get a feel for cool, friendly and cosmopolitan Toronto.