I am curious... since I can't find a definitive answer that is up to date...

Do Americans need a passport to enter Canada? Or can we use our birth certificate and other documents still?

I found an article that was on about.com printed in Dec. '07:

US citizens arriving in Canada by land or water do not need a passport until at least summer 2009. 

Just want to make sure. (It would be a day trip when I am going out to WA next month).  TIA!!

The US Goverment Customs website say you need a photo ID (driver's license) and a document proving citizenship (passport, birth certificate) until June 2009 when you need to have a passport.  Unless you're flying, then you need a passport regardless.

This is what I find amusing.  My understanding from my friend in Canada (and I know we have some Canadians on the board so maybe they can jump in on this) is that you only need a driver's license and birth certificate to get into Canada.  But if you want to leave Canada (in July 2009) and return to the US, you'll need a passport.  How crazy is that!  You'll be able to get in, but won't be able to return?!  I hope there's a lot more promotion about our documentation needs for Canada/US visits starting later this year.  Until recently I went to visit my friend once every 18 months.

I tink it would be best to get a passport, if you are traveling to Canada, it may spare some hassle and expense down the road.

I just went to Niagara Falls last weekend.  I did not need a passport, just a drivers license and my birth certificate.   It will chane June of 2009

yes, as of July 2008 you need a new thing called a "passport card" (and yes it has a microchip in it but they have details on the website) to go by land to Canada. To go by air, and sea, I think, you need a passport book. Here's the official page:

http://travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html

crunchy... I looked it up and it does have the word OR in there...

CURRENTLY: 
U.S. citizens need to present either (a) a passport, passport card (scheduled to be in full production beginning in July 2008), or WHTI-compliant document; or (b) a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, along with proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate.

I am planning on taking my birth certificate, marriage license as proof of name change and will have my driver's license anyway to get on the train.  Still not 100% sure if we are crossing the border but will carry it just in case the opportunity arises.

Thanks everyone!!