Bulletins

SMITHS FALLS, Ontario – May 12, 2026 – Parks Canada is pleased to welcome all visitors to another navigation season on the Rideau Canal, Canada’s oldest continuously operated canal system.

The Rideau Canal, a Canadian Heritage River, National Historic Site, and UNESCO World Heritage Site, connects Kingston and the National Capital Region in Ottawa. Every year, more than a million visitors experience its beauty, natural heritage, and history.

Canada Strong returns this year, offering visitors free lockage and 25% off camping and roofed accommodations from June 19 to September 7. Mooring fees apply.

Lock & Paddle returns to the Rideau Canal! On August 15, join a free mass paddling event. All skill levels are welcome. Visit our website for more details.

Plan Your Visit

Hours of Operation:
May 15 – June 18
Monday to Thursday: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Friday to Sunday and Victoria Day (May 18): 9:00 am – 7:00 pm

June 19 – September 7 (Canada Strong period)
Monday to Thursday: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
Friday to Sunday and holidays (Canada Day – July 1, Civic Holiday – August 3, Labour Day – September 7): 9:00 am – 7:00 pm

September 8 – October 12
Monday to Friday: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Saturday to Sunday and Thanksgiving (October 12): 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

Last Lockage:
To ensure passage before closing, boaters must arrive at the designated blue line at least 30 minutes prior to closing at lockstations with a single lock. At lockstations with multiple lock chambers, allow 30 minutes per lock. At swing bridges (including Brass Point Swing Bridge), vessels must arrive at least 20 minutes before closing.

Stay a Little Longer
For overnight accommodations, the canal offers reservable campsites at Kilmarnock, Newboro, and Beveridges lockstations, and unique oTENTik stays at Upper Nicholsons, Upper Beveridges, and Upper Brewers lockstations. Reserve online.

From June 19 to September 7, visitors can enjoy 25% off Parks Canada-administered camping and roofed accommodations.

Historic accommodations are available at Beveridges, Newboro, and Davis lockstations. These accommodations are operated by a third-party provider and are not included in this offer. Reservations can be made through Rideau Lakes Cottages.

LaSalle Causeway Notice
Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) has installed a temporary modular bridge at the LaSalle Causeway, which will be removed on a fixed schedule for large vessel crossings.

Boaters with vessels requiring under 14 to 16 feet (4.27 to 4.9 metres) of vertical clearance may be able to navigate through the East Fixed Bridge at any time. Boaters are encouraged to check the electronic water level gauge in advance and the physical water level gauge upon arrival to determine if passage is possible.

For vessels requiring greater clearance, transit through the main navigation channel will be available during scheduled openings. Please visit our website for the full 2026 schedule and to access up-to-date clearance information.