Lock & Paddle
Lachine Canal National Historic Site
This summer, experience the Lock & Paddle 2026!
Join Parks Canada at this free paddling event happening on Saturday, July 11, 2026.
Enjoy paddling on the Lachine Canal alongside tens of colourful canoes and kayaks, before experiencing a lockage.
Come and have fun surrounded by the sounds of music and laughter, in the company of new friends and family.
Don’t forget your neon clothing or accessory, photos will be taking during every lockage!
Saturday, July 11, 2026 at noon
Saint-Gabriel Lock of the Lachine Canal
Event Schedule and Details
Join us for a unique paddling experience on the peaceful waters of the Lachine Canal aboard your non-motorized watercraft! To ensure a smooth and safe event, please review the schedule below.
Departure from Peel Basin
Starting at 11 a.m., drop off your watercraft at the dock located at 31 Mill Street, Montreal, before parking your vehicle. A Parks Canada team will be on hand to welcome you and monitor the area.
Parking
Park your vehicle at 1151 Mill Street, Montreal, H3C 1Y5 (free parking). A team member will be available to assist you.
Access to the landing stage
- Walk approximately 2 minutes along the canal path to reach the landing stage.
- Once there, retrieve your watercraft and launch into the canal.
Paddling to Lock 3
- Paddle toward Lock 3 (approximately 15 minutes of travel time).
- Arrive on time to ensure the smooth flow of the event.
Locking Process Schedule
Starting at noon
Launching and boating.
2 p.m.
Downstream gates (Peel) close; upstream lock passage for those who wish to do so.
Starting at 2:45 P.M.
4 p.m.
4 P.M. to 4:30 P.M.
Participants depart for Peel.
- Return your watercraft to the landing stage.
- Walk back to the parking lot at 1151 Mill Street.
- Retrieve your vehicle and return to pick up your watercraft.
IMPORTANT
- All-ages and skill levels welcome;
- All paddlers/passengers must wear a PFD in order to participate;
- Punctuality: Be on time to ensure the smooth progression of the event. Plan for about 15 minutes to paddle from your launch point (Peel or Atwater) to the lock in your non-motorized watercraft. Respect the scheduled lock gate closure times.
- Smoke-free / Alcohol-free event;
- Respect your fellow paddlers!
Visitors who do not follow the rules and requirements will not be allowed to participate in the activity.
Departure from Atwater Market
Starting at 11 a.m., you may access the designated event landing stage to drop off your watercraft before parking your vehicle.
Parking
Parking spaces are available on nearby streets.
Access to the landing stage by car
- Enter the Lachine Canal path via Bourget Street and head toward Atwater Market (turn left).
- Look for the Parks Canada tent, set up a few meters from the path, where you can leave your watercraft.
- A Parks Canada team will be on-site to assist you and ensure safety.
- Exit the canal path via Bérard Street, park your vehicle on nearby streets, and return on foot to pick up your watercraft and launch from the Atwater Market dock.
Paddling to Lock 3
- Paddle toward Lock 3 (approximately 15 minutes of travel time).
- Arrive on time to ensure the event runs smoothly.
Locking Process Schedule
Starting at noon
2:15 P.M.
Starting at 2:45 P.M.
4:30 P.M.
4:30 P.M. to 5 P.M.
- Return your watercraft to the landing stage.
- Retrieve your vehicle and return to pick up your watercraft.
IMPORTANT
- All-ages and skill levels welcome;
- All paddlers/passengers must wear a PFD in order to participate;
- Punctuality: Be on time to ensure the smooth progression of the event. Plan for about 15 minutes to paddle from your launch point (Peel or Atwater) to the lock in your non-motorized watercraft. Respect the scheduled lock gate closure times.
- Smoke-free / Alcohol-free event;
- Respect your fellow paddlers!
Visitors who do not follow the rules and requirements will not be allowed to participate in the activity.
What to bring
This is a rain or shine event. Dress for the weather.
- Non-motorized watercraft* recommended by Transport Canada. See the types of watercraft allowed for the activity.
IMPORTANT: Paddleboards are allowed on the waterway but are not permitted in the locks for safety reasons. - Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) for each participant
- Sound signalling device, buoyant heaving line, and bailer for each boat
- Sunscreen and a hat (you'll be on the canal for over 2 hours!)
- Water bottle and snacks
*Parks Canada reserves the right to refuse access to the waterway or lock to anyone attending the event with a boat deemed unsafe.
Watercraft Rental
Don’t have your own boat or gear but still want to make a splash? Visit the H2O Adventures website and contact the nautical center.
Questions about the event
What types of non-motorized watercraft are allowed during the Lock & Paddle” activity?
Only non-motorized watercraft that comply with Transport Canada regulations (such as canoes and kayaks) will be allowed to participate at the event. Inflatable watercraft considered as “beach toys” (e.g. vinyl unicorns, floating mattresses, etc.) and homemade watercraft are not permitted. Each vessel must be equipped with the required safety equipment.
Note: Paddleboards are allowed on the waterway, but their access to the locks is prohibited for safety reasons.
Parks Canada reserves the right to refuse access to the waterway or lock to anyone attending the event with a boat deemed unsafe.
Do I need to register for Lock & Paddle?
No! Participants are not required to pre-register for the event. Simply show up at one of the reception points with your boat.
Can I participate with a Stand-Up Paddleboard?
Yes, but you will not be able to take part in the photo. Paddleboards are prohibited in all locks but are allowed on the waterway at all times.
Do we still have to pay lockage fees?
Lockage will be free for all paddling participants of Lock & Paddle on Saturday, July 11, 2026. Seasonal pass sticker for non-motorized craft will not be required.
Where does the event start? Where do I put my vessel in?
The activity will take place in the Atwater pole, between locks No. 3 and 4. Vessels can be loaded into water at various locations. See: Event Schedule and Details..
Where can I park my vehicle?
Free parking spaces are available for participants.
Event collaborators
An event of this scale would not be possible without the dedication and generosity of our valued collaborators. Thanks to their participation, we are able to offer all visitors a rich and diverse experience.
On July 11, come enjoy a delicious food selection made possible by the SDC Pointe Saint Charles (French only).
On the water, Canot Kayak Québec (French only) will ensure participants’ safety and educate people of all ages on best practices for paddling with peace of mind. The organization will also present the national network of paddling routes known as the “Route bleue.” Their commitment is reinforced by the invaluable collaboration of the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary, whose presence is essential to ensuring a safe environment.
The team of experts from Ozero Solutions will host an on-site booth to raise awareness about invasive aquatic species, while the Marie-Uguay Library will introduce you to its brand-new summer offerings at its “Hors les murs” booth, in addition to showcasing its unique stand-up paddleboard rental service. A wonderful opportunity to explore culture and water sports all in one place!
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all our collaborators for their invaluable contributions. Their dedication makes this event a truly special moment of sharing and discovery. Come meet them and celebrate with us!
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