Rideau Canal
The Rideau Canal National Historic Site is a 202km water route that connects Canada’s vibrant national capital in Ottawa, with Kingston and Lake Ontario to the south. Travel the canal by boat, canoe or kayak and experience the historic lock system operated by Parks Canada.
Plan your visit | Rideau Canal
At 202km in length, the Rideau Canal National Historic Site is one epic travel route. With charming waterfront communities and 24 historic lockstations along its length, you’re bound to discover something exciting around every bend.
Our History - Rideau Canal
The history winds along the Rideau Canal in communities along the way. See the Lockmaster’s House Museum at Chaffey’s Lock, the blockhouses at Merrickville, Newboro, Kingston Mills and Narrow’s Lock, and the “whispering” Stone Arch Dam at Jones Falls, a jaw-dropping engineering feat for its time.
Explore - Rideau Canal
The Rideau Canal is, by nature, a marvel through and through. But it’s also what is popping up all around it that makes for an unforgettable day trip or full-on vacation. Discover incredible beauty at every turn, coupled with unique community experiences all rooted in history along the waterway!
Winter | Rideau Canal
Every winter the Rideau Canal transforms into the world’s largest naturally frozen skating rink. Welcoming nearly one million visitors each year, the skateway is 7.8 km long stretching from Ottawa downtown to Dows Lake.
Boat Tours | Rideau Canal
There are a number of boat tour experiences along the Rideau Canal. Whether you are looking to take a short cruise in the heart of Canada’s Capital, wanting to experience the Rideau Lakes region, or looking to embark on a multiple-night excursion, there are several options to …
Boating and Paddling | Rideau Canal
The Rideau Canal is a paddler’s paradise and worthy of any Great Canadian bucket list. With mostly flat-water paddling, no sizable currents, and over 1,000 kilometres of shoreline to explore, the Canal makes for an inviting getaway for paddlers of all skill levels.
Events - Rideau Canal
Arts, shopping and street events are aplenty in 'the Jewel of the Rideau'. Find things to do in Merrickville, Ontario.
Stay where you play | Rideau Canal
Looking for a great place to stay during your visit to the Rideau Canal? Many wonderful overnight options exist for you to choose from between Kingston and Ottawa. Campgrounds, cottages and hotels can be found in urban areas along the Rideau, while Parks Canada offers tenting at most locksations and short-term vacation rentals at select sites.
Plan your visit | Rideau Canal
At 202km in length, the Rideau Canal National Historic Site is one epic travel route. With charming waterfront communities and 24 historic lockstations along its length, you’re bound to discover something exciting around every bend. Start planning your next trip to this amazing UNESCO World Heritage Site today.