Ten must-do activities on the historic canals and waterways of Ontario and Quebec

Rideau Canal National Historic Site

Find yourself dreaming of sailing but don’t have a boat? No problem! Book a sightseeing cruise along the Rideau Canal and discover the various sights of downtown Ottawa, or be the captain of your own Le Boat and take part in a family-friendly adventure along a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Licensed local operators near the Rideau Canal offer unique tours, activities, and rentals for any visitor looking to experience this historic waterway.

Rideau Canal, Trent–Severn Waterway and St. Ours Canal National Historic Sites

Extend your visit and experience the peace and quiet of a lockstation at night! Set up a tent with a view of the water, or reserve a roofed accommodation, like an oTENTik or Rustic cabin, for a touch of comfort. Want to live like a lockmaster? Rent one of the three restored historic homes on the Rideau Canal, where historic features and modern amenities come together in these one-of-a-kind vacation rental properties.

Trent–Severn Waterway National Historic Site

Travel the Trent–Severn Waterway by canoe or kayak and experience the best of this diverse outdoor destination! With 387 km of water to explore and many places to stay overnight, you can plan a different trip with each visit! Towns and villages all along the route will introduce you to great local food and shopping. And if you’re into quiet paddling through serene natural landscapes, some of Ontario’s best environments await you. Plus, there’s nothing quite like locking through this centuries-old historic engineering.

Lachine Canal National Historic Site

Discover outdoor activities in Montreal – safely and easily! Learn the basics of canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and even skiing or snowshoeing. Take part in workshops and get advice from outdoor experts.

Trent–Severn Waterway National Historic Site

The Big Chute is on every boater’s bucket list for a reason. Part train, part escalator, this engineering marvel is something you must see to believe. Conceived in part to help control the spread of invasive eels, every year thousands of people come from all around to watch this big machine in action. But if you want the real experience, become one of the many visitors who ride the Big Chute from one lake to another aboard their boats and personal watercraft.

Lachine Canal National Historic Site

Hop aboard the Petit Navire and soar through 150 years of history and let the waters take you back to the days when traders used this very canal. Let yourself be lulled by the peaceful waters and make sure to try out the fascinating experience of exploring the lock by boat!

Rideau Canal National Historic Site

Follow in the footsteps of the original builders of the Rideau Canal as you explore this important piece of history. Discover Merrickville and visit the blockhouse where troops were stationed for protection against attack. Go for a stroll around Jones Falls and explore the blacksmith shop, Sweeney House and the impressive Stone Arch Dam. Or, climb the paths near the Ottawa Locks for stunning views of Chateau Laurier and Parliament Hill.

Lachine Canal National Historic Site.

Treat yourself to a day of outdoor activities in the heart of Montreal as you explore the Lachine Canal. No boat? No problem! Rent an electric boat, pedal boat, kayak or canoe and see the city from a new perspective from the water.

Historic Canals and Waterways

Enjoy a unique boating experience as you take your boat overnight mooring in one of Canada's historic canals. Dock overnight in an urban setting like Ottawa or Montreal and enjoy the nearby activities as well as a wide range of restaurants, programs and events. Or, escape the city and step back, relax and take in the breathtaking scenery from the docks as you embrace the peace that nature brings.

Chambly Canal National Historic Site

Walk or bike along an old towpath that is over 20 km long. Enjoy the moment in the middle of nature as you observe the boats sailing the canal and passing through the manually operated locks. The Chambly Canal’s path is one of the most beautiful circuits in the Montérégie! Take advantage of the magnificent parks and green spaces bordering the canal for a picnic break.