Grand River Transit is the public transit system serving the Region of Waterloo cities of Kitchener, Waterloo, and Cambridge as well as outlying areas with bus and rail. It operates buses and a light rail system know as Ion.
EasyGO is the automated fare collection system for Grand River Transit and Ion.
Note: Presto is not accepted as a payment card.
Credit cards and mobile wallets are also accepted.
Fares
GRT uses a timed ticket system. Ride and transfer for up to 120 minutes.
Services
Ion light rail operates as the ‘spine’ of the network with all buses connecting to stations. This “hub and spoke” system capitalizes on the high capacity of Ion rapid transit that runs north-south through the region.
Destinations
GRT cover the entirety of the urban areas of Kitchener, Waterloo, and Cambridge
Baggage
GRT’s “What can I bring” page breaks down what riders can and cannot bring onboard.
Classes
Pros
- Fast & frequent Ion light rail system.
- Good integration with rail and bus.
- Extensive regional coverage to the tri-cities and outlying areas.
- Environmentally friend with battery electric fleet and fully electric Ion trains.
- Excellent for students of University of Waterloo, Wilfrid Laurier University, and Conestoga College with U-Pass.
Cons
- Longer trips and lower frequency outside of core areas.
- Lack of Ion service to Cambridge. Although extension plans have been approved.
- Crowding at peak times especially at universities and downtown areas.
- Limited light-night service means planning ahead when staying out late.
Notes
- Ion‘s Central Station in downtown Kitchener is a short walk to Kitchener Station. There are plans to build a new intermodal transit hub so intercity buses, GO Transit, VIA Rail and GRT all connect under one roof.