Agawa Canyon to continue boarding at Canal District station after deal reached

The Agawa Canyon Tour Train will resume operations at the Canal District’s Huron Street station when the season begins later this summer, after Watco agreed to a lease extension for 2026

When the Agawa Canyon Tour Train begins its season later this summer, it will once again board from the train station in the Canal District.

The announcement follows reports that Watco, the company that owns and operates the tour train, had decided to not renew its lease at the train station, which was opened in 2021.

Watco spokesperson Cori Kallenbach told SooToday the Agawa Canyon Tour Train will continue operating from the Huron Street station for the 2026 season after a lease extension.

“We’re focused on delivering a smooth and enjoyable experience for all passengers and look forward to welcoming guests back this season,” said Kallenbach in an email.

Kallenbach said guests can expect the same scenic journey through the Canadian Shield, including the traditional 90‑minute stop in the canyon.

SooToday reached out to a representative from the Canal District today, but did not receive an immediate reply.

In an April 7 story, Canal District owner Tony Porco told SooToday he would prefer for the train to continue departing from the purpose-built station.

The station officially opened in 2021, complete with a ticket booth, restaurant and micro-brewery, an outfitter gift shop and Indigenous cultural learning spaces.

The province pooled together $5 million for projects at the Canal District, including the new train station.

Travis Anderson, the city’s director of tourism and community development, said he is not familiar with the details of the new agreement, but lauded the announcement.

“The Canal District is a phenomenal venue with a lot of amenities and an asset that we value from a tourism and also from a community perspective. Hearing that the train is back in that location is, I think, a positive for everybody,” said Anderson.

Watco was planning on moving the departure point for the train to its rail yard, which is accessible from Carmen’s Way. The company said it was planning to build a station on the property before the 2026 season begins.