Summary
Introduction to the Rideau Canal
The Rideau Canal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stretches from downtown Ottawa to Kingston. This 202 km long waterway is famous for its historic locks and renowned skating rink, yet it offers countless attractions, making it a destination that takes weeks to fully explore.
The oldest continuously operated locks system in North America showcases charming towns, picturesque vineyards, significant historic sites, and breathtaking scenery. After visiting the Rideau Canal several times in Ottawa and Kingston, we had the unique chance to experience it thoroughly while spending two weeks this past summer and autumn on a houseboat with Le Boat.
Experience the Le Boat Tour
Our love for Le Boat led us to embark on this adventure twice in 2021, with plans to explore Europe in 2022! You can arrange your own private luxury cruise for a memorable adventure in Canada or Europe. We appreciated having our spacious Horizon 4 houseboat that featured four bedrooms and four baths, creating our own little travel bubble with family. Picture yourself cruising the canals of France, discovering historical sites, and savoring exquisite French cuisine next summer—what a dream! Discover our experience during the Le Boat Trip on the Rideau Canal.
Top Places to Visit on the Rideau Canal
The Rideau Canal proved to be such an extraordinary vacation that we often wondered why more Canadians don’t explore this beautiful region of Ontario. However, it won’t be long before the waterways attract visitors from around the world who will be eager to discover the incredible sights along the Rideau Canal.
Spending a week on a boat cruising through the locks is a definite bucket list experience. We learned how to pilot the houseboat and navigate the historic locks, which can reach a height of 7.9 m (26 ft.) at Smiths Falls. Entering a lock for the first time offers a mixture of intimidation and exhilaration.
Rideau Locks and Lock Stations
The Rideau Locks are the most fascinating attractions on the canal, featuring 24 lock stations that house 47 locks from Ottawa to Kingston. We had the pleasure of experiencing each one. The uniqueness of the Rideau Canal locks lies in their operation, which has remained largely unchanged since 1832.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site operates mainly through hand-cranked mechanisms (with only two exceptions) managed by Parks Canada staff. Original lockmasters’ houses can still be found at lock stations, and the massive wooden locks and swing bridges are operated manually by dedicated personnel.
In operation since 1832, the Rideau Canal is the oldest continuously functioning canal system in North America and offers a unique opportunity for boaters to immerse themselves in living history. The characteristics of the locks, including the original structures and lockmasters’ houses, have changed little over the past 200 years.
Ottawa
Ottawa is undoubtedly one of the best places to experience the Rideau Canal. Many of the top attractions are located along the canal, from the Fairmont Chateau Laurier to Parliament Hill and the Bytown Museum, which overlooks eight enchanting locks connecting the canal to the Ottawa River. The Ottawa Locks are the most scenic on the Rideau Canal, framed by the iconic Fairmont Chateau Laurier and the impressive Parliament buildings.
Visitors can enjoy boat cruises from downtown to Dows Lake, as well as cycling paths tracing the Rideau. If you’re interested in cycling, consider checking out Escape Bicycle Tours for rentals and guided excursions.
Rideau Canal Cruise
We experienced a guided Rideau Canal Cruise from downtown to Dows Lake, but our best experience was mooring directly in front of the Westin Hotel and National Arts Centre on our luxurious houseboat. Watching the twinkling city lights dance on the water from our prime location was simply magical. Parks Canada offers free docking, with the option to purchase electricity for a nominal fee of $9.20 per night.
Dows Lake
Dows Lake is another gem along the Rideau Canal in Ottawa. We enjoyed boating here and even raced dragon boats on this lake in winter when it was frozen solid. A pavilion at the lake allows boaters to moor overnight and features restaurants and rentals for kayaks, paddleboats, and bicycles. In the winter, Dows Lake is the perfect place for ice skating.
Merrickville
Before our journey on the Rideau Canal, we had never heard of Merrickville, but after exploring its charming downtown, we deemed it one of Ontario’s prettiest towns. Communities in Bloom once recognized it as Canada’s most beautiful village. This quaint town located directly on the Rideau Canal is worth a full day of exploration.
Begin your day at Stella Luna Cafe with fresh coffee and pastries, and be sure to return in the afternoon for delicious gelato as you stroll past the storefronts. The owners, Tammy and Alessandro, who met in Rome and decided to marry just short after meeting, bring with them the most delightful gelato from their time in Italy.
Merrickville Ruins
In addition to cafes and shops, Merrickville offers several attractions such as the Merrickville Ruins beside the locks. These picturesque stone ruins date back to the 1800s and mark the site of an old mill, providing a stunning backdrop for photos. Don’t miss the Merrickville blockhouse, the largest on the Rideau Canal and a National Historic Site.
Burrit’s Rapids
Every lock station along the Rideau Canal holds its unique charm. Burritts Rapids features a stunning swing bridge and offers various activities, including a hiking trail called the Tip to Toe Trail, which spans four kilometers and connects visitors to the nearby Rideau Woodland Ramble.
This renowned garden center enables visitors to wander through meticulously designed gardens, appreciate artistic displays, and find quiet moments in the labyrinth.
Smiths Falls
Smiths Falls serves as the starting and ending point for all Le Boat Tours and is an excellent hub for exploring the Rideau. This town is home to the highest locks on the canal and one of only three hydraulic locks. The remaining locks are operated manually by Parks Canada staff. Smiths Falls also features several biking and hiking trails along the canal and a variety of dining and shopping options downtown.
Railway Museum
A highlight of Smiths Falls is the Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario, which transports visitors back in time through old train stations, cabooses, and railway cars. A fascinating replica of an old Dentist Train, initially created to serve rural communities, is on display, and adventurous visitors can even stay overnight in a vintage caboose or take a train ride.
Canoeing and Camping at Beveridges Lock
Upper Beveridges Lock Station is a popular destination on the Rideau Canal, with Otentiks available for rental through Parks Canada. This station connects the Rideau with the Tay River, leading to the charming community of Perth. A thrilling and exhilarating experience is to rent a canoe from Parks Canada (or bring your own) and navigate through the locks in a non-motorized vessel, surrounded by vibrant birdlife.
Rideau Lakes
The Rideau Canal includes serene lakes, making it known as one of Canada’s premier small boat cruising destinations. With charming communities and numerous marinas, this waterway is indeed the perfect spot for boating enthusiasts!
Colonel By Island
Situated on Big Rideau Lake, Colonel By Island is a National Historic Site managed by Parks Canada. Its historical significance is notable; it was once frequented by socialites, including the likes of Paul Anka and New York’s elite. Once owned by the proprietor of New York’s Yellow Cab Company, it served as a remote escape for his affluent friends.
Although the house and tennis courts are in a state of disrepair, they present an intriguing glimpse into the lives of the past. Visitors can observe the structures from a distance and explore the fantastic hiking trails, making it an ideal spot for kayaking and swimming.
Wine at Westport
Westport is another picturesque community along the Rideau Canal, brimming with ice cream shops, boutiques, and a brewery, making it an inviting place for an overnight stay. The bustling marina is perfect for boaters looking to dock overnight, with Scheurmann Vineyard being a standout attraction.
This vineyard offers breathtaking views; dining here during sunset is highly recommended. Located just a 20-minute walk from town, the restaurant attracts visitors from the marina and nearby bed and breakfasts. Additionally, don’t miss the opportunity to hike up Foley Mountain for panoramic views of the town and Upper Rideau Lake.
Chafey’s Lock
Chafey’s Lock is another must-visit lock station along the Rideau Canal. It features a marina where visitors can moor their boats for the night. The renowned Opinicon Restaurant, which exudes a nostalgic charm reminiscent of the 1950s, is a quintessential stop. An ice cream shop and museum add to the appeal.
Kilborns at Newboro
Newboro offers a unique shopping experience at Kilborn’s, a department store set within three historic houses, merged into one. Visitors can explore the distinct displays for unique local art or stock up on snacks and provisions.
Jones Falls
Our favorite lock station is undoubtedly Jones Falls, known for its scenic four-lock system. The large turning basin between the locks creates a stunning view. The area features numerous historical plaques, quaint lock houses, and an extensive 16 km (10 miles) hiking and biking trail.
Kingston Mills
Kingston Mills, located just 15 minutes outside of Kingston, is one of the Rideau Canal’s most beautiful lock stations, featuring a turning basin, three-step locks, and an additional detached lock. Historically significant, this location was home to the first mill on the Rideau Canal, dating back to 1784.
Rideau Canal Mansions
Cruising along the Rideau Canal not only provides scenic vistas but also offers an opportunity for aspiring homebuyers to dream. Closer to Ottawa, the mansions grow increasingly opulent. While some resemble hotels, others boast seaplanes and various watercraft lined up along their shores—just a dream of luxurious living.
History of the Rideau Canal
Following the British victory in the War of 1812, Canada felt vulnerable to potential attacks from the U.S. As Canada and America divided the St. Lawrence River, efforts were made to secure a safe route to the Great Lakes in case of another conflict. The Rideau River was chosen as the ideal link between what was then Bytown and the St. Lawrence River.
Construction began in 1827 and finished in 1832, but the project came at a human cost. Colonel John By supervised the construction, enduring many hurdles, delays, and increased expenses. Upon completion, Colonel By faced scrutiny and was even put on trial, despite his monumental achievement in building the Rideau Canal. Sadly, he lost his military career, as over 500 men perished from malaria during the project.
Skating on the Rideau Canal – Winter
One of the most iconic activities to experience on the Rideau Canal during winter is skating at Winterlude. While this is separate from a boat cruise, it is an unforgettable Canadian experience during the colder months. When the ice freezes, the Rideau Canal transforms into the world’s largest skating rink, complete with shops, restaurants, and warming stations along the route. Skating on the Rideau Canal is indeed a unique experience for those visiting Ottawa in winter. Be sure to enjoy a Beavertail or fresh frozen maple syrup while on the ice!
These highlights illustrate some of the incredible experiences that await on the Rideau Canal, which truly is a hidden gem in Canada. If you have the opportunity to visit our nation’s capital, don’t miss the chance to cruise along the Rideau Canal—it is simply spectacular.
