The Hull-Chelsea-Wakefield Steam Train, Ottawa

You may have traveled in trains but there is nothing that comes close to the experience of traveling in the Hull-Chelsea-Wakefield Steam Train. Indeed, a trip to Ottawa cannot be complete unless you put this short, half day train trip on your itinerary. And, once you are on it, there will be more than enough things to enchant you and grab your attention throughout the train journey.

The Hull-Chelsea-Wakefield Steam Train is the oldest operating steam train in Canada, and the route that it takes you through is probably the most scenic one in eastern Canada. This steam engine was built in 1907, in Sweden, and it is more than a 100 years old. The journey lasts half a day and the train moves along the Gatineau River ending in the quaint village of Wakefield, where the train stops for two hours.

The 64 km trip that the train chugs down on takes passengers through the Gatineau Park, a natural reserve in Canada. While there is so much to see outside the window, you are also entertained on board with a licensed souvenir shop and snack bar along with musicians and tour guides. They are sure to regale with you interesting stories and trivia about the region and the steam train itself.

The Hull-Chelsea-Wakefield Steam Train has 8 period train cars with the capacity of accommodating 504 passengers. Each of these train cars is climate controlled for maximum comfort of the passengers. When the train stops for a while at Wakefield, the passengers get the additional treat of watching the steam locomotive being turned on the last operating manual turntable in Canada. Definitely a moment that you would want to capture on your camera, so keep it handy!

If you are wondering what to do next, don’t worry. The town of Wakefield has several places worth exploring. You can meander up and down the lanes and check out interesting gifts and crafts shop for some curio to take back with you. Or, you could also participate in the walking tours that take you around the village and tell you about its history and culture. If the excitement of the trip has made you hungry, there are many local restaurants and cafes that will offer some mouthwatering delicacies.

The Hull-Chelsea-Wakefield Steam Train is also renowned for the Sunset Dinner Train that happens from June to September, on Friday and Saturday evenings. Along with the breathtaking scenery, you are also treated to a four course meal made on board and served with great panache. Just the perfect way to celebrate a special occasion and spend some time with your family, isn’t it?

Whether you are a nature lover, rail fan, history buff, or simply someone looking for something out of the ordinary, the Hull-Chelsea-Wakefield Steam Train has something for everyone on board.