Summary of Activities at Lachine Canal
The Lachine Canal, the Atlantic Ocean’s once upon a time chief entry to the North American continent, is of major historical significance. It’s also a Montreal treasure to locals and a fairly popular tourist attraction ever since its restoration and reopening to pleasure boating in 2002 breathed new life into the 14.5 kilometers (9 miles) that make up this Canadian National Historic Site.
So how do you make the most of your time by the canal?
Bike the Canal
Listed as the third most beautiful urban circuit in the world by Time magazine in 2009, a round trip of the Lachine Canal’s bike paths covers 29 kilometers (18 miles) of terrain. Moreover, the scenery is gorgeous, green, and rife with historical landmarks, reflecting Canada’s industrial revolution. It is advisable to skip renting a Bixi bike if you are unfamiliar with Montreal and want to avoid extra charges. Most Montreal bike rental shops offer competitive prices and flexible rental options.
Lachine Fur Trade Museum
Address: 1255 Bd Saint-Joseph, Lachine, QC H8S 2M2, Canada
Phone: +1 514-637-7433
This particular attraction is off the beaten path at the far west end of the canal. Unless you’re a local, you will likely arrive here by bike. The Fur Trade Museum provides a fun and educational experience about the history behind the Lachine Canal. Expect a visit to take about one hour, and the exhibits are also kid-friendly.
Walk the Canal
You could spend the entire day walking along the green banks of the Lachine Canal. Tourists often enjoy meandering the 4-kilometer (2.5-mile) stretch from Old Montreal to the Atwater Market, taking in sights of the Old Port, the remnants of Griffintown, and finally discovering one of Montreal’s best-loved public markets, the Atwater Market.
Atwater Market
Address: 138 Av. Atwater, Montréal, QC H4C 2H6, Canada
Phone: +1 514-937-7754
Located a short stroll from the canal path, the Atwater Market is one of the most popular public markets in Montreal and an ideal spot for purchasing picnic items. Just be prepared for potential overspending. Don’t miss visiting Fromagerie Atwater, where you can choose from over 750 international and local cheese varieties, and they often allow tastings before you decide to buy.
Ski the Canal
Since February 2016, visitors have access to six kilometers of cross-country skiing trails that are also suitable for snowshoeing from Avenue Dollard in Lasalle to Complexe Gadbois in St. Henri. Consequently, this skiing/snowshoeing trail is part of a new initiative by the city of Montreal, which includes clearing up to 14 kilometers for winter strolling, starting at Atwater Market and heading west.
McAuslan Brewery
Address: 5080 Rue Saint-Ambroise, Montréal, QC H4C 2G1, Canada
Phone: +1 514-939-3060
Situated near the Côte-Saint-Paul lock along the Lachine Canal, even those who typically dislike beer may find a favorite in Montreal microbrewery’s apricot brew. Their terrace might even feature seasonal raspberry ale and cider on tap. Affordable snack options are also available, making it a great stop during your exploration.
Kayak the Canal
Lastly, consider kayaking or canoeing along the Lachine Canal; it is open for pleasure boating, providing a unique perspective of this historic site.
