The Portage Flyer train was once the world’s shortest narrow-gauge commercial railway. It has been relocated to our site and is fully operational for your ride back in time. Enjoy a leisurely ride in the authentic open-air coaches as you travel along-side the Muskoka River to the edge of Fairy Lake. The train engine is powered by steam or diesel-electric, depending on the season and availability.
Although a short distance of rail (just a bit shorter than the original mile) the adventure is more about the history of this small but important train. Your journey will bring you to the Purser’s Cabin at the end of the track, where inside we celebrate the rich history of the resorts of Fairy Lake, Peninsula Lake and lake of Bays, featuring Bigwin Inn, a lavish resort on Bigwin Island, Lake of Bays; where the upper class from all over the world sought fun and relaxation. Children of all ages are welcome to come up into the locomotive cab and learn what it takes to operate the Portage Flyer.
All aboard the train
Our 1948 Diesel Electric Locomotive (Spring and Fall) or 1926 Steam Locomotive (Summer) leaves the Rotary Village Station at 100 Forbes Hill Drive, Huntsville, Ontario on the days and times specified during each season.
Tickets
You may purchase tickets for the Portage Flyer Train and Steam Museum at Rotary Village Station or our main admissions desk. The station opens one hour prior to first departure for ticket sales. Arrive at least 15 minutes before departure times. Tickets can only be purchased at the time of arrival – no online or advance tickets available.
Note: Train tickets will be available for purchase ONLY at Rotary Village Station in October.
Schedules
This the weekly train schedule unless otherwise indicated on the location hours page
Spring: May 17 – June 28
Tuesday to Friday: 1:00 pm
Saturday: 12:00 pm | 1:00 pm | 2:00 pm | 3:00 pm
Summer: July 1 – August 30
Tuesday – Saturday: 12:00 pm | 1:00 pm | 2:00 pm | 3:00 pm
Special Canada Day Train – July 1: 11:30 am | 12:15 pm | 1:00 pm | 1:45 pm | 2:30 pm | 3:15 pm
Fall: September 2 – October 12
Tuesday to Friday: 1:00 pm
Saturday: 12:00 pm | 1:00 pm | 2:00 pm | 3:00 pm
Special Thanksgiving Sunday Train – October 12: 11:30 am | 12:15 pm | 1:00 pm | 1:45 pm | 2:30 pm | 3:15 pm
You may purchase your train and Steam Museum tickets at our main admissions desk.
Note: Registered service animals welcome. Smoking or vaping are not permitted on Town property or on the train.
What to expect
- It is a scenic trip along the Muskoka River onto Fairy Lake station
- The experience is about 25 minutes, which includes a 7-minute train ride each way, and a stop at the end of the line at Fairy Lake station (that was the original Purser's Cabin at Norway Point, Lake of Bays) to take in sights, explore the exhibit in the Purser's Cabin, and visit the engine cab!
- We hope that you will enjoy our Steam Museum and take the time to appreciate some of the technical aspects of the railway
- Our Station Master and/or Conductor will be happy to answer all of your questions