The Rideau Canal is open for its 194th navigation season, and Parks Canada is inviting everyone to explore Canada’s oldest working canal.
This year also marks the 100th anniversary of the Rideau Canal being named a National Historic Site. Stretching from Kingston to Ottawa, the canal is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Canadian Heritage River. More than a million people visit every year.
Plan Your Visit
- Hours of Operation:
- May 16 – June 19: Mon-Thurs 10:00 am – 4:00 pm | Fri-Sun & Victoria Day (May 19) 9:00 am – 7:00 pm
- June 20 – Sept 1: Mon-Thurs 9:00 am – 6:00 pm | Fri-Sun & holidays 9:00 am – 7:00 pm
- Sept 2 – Oct 13: Mon-Fri 10:00 am – 4:00 pm | Sat-Sun & Thanksgiving (Oct 13) 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Last Lockage: To ensure passage before closing, boaters must arrive at the designated blue line at least 30 minutes before closing at single lockstations. At lockstations with multiple locks, allow 30 minutes per lock chamber. At swing bridges (including Brass Point Bridge), arrive 20 minutes before closing.
One of the season’s highlights is the return of Lock & Paddle on July 19—a free, large paddling event celebrating Canada’s Parks Day. Paddlers of all skill levels from Ottawa, Peterborough and Montreal are expected to join.
Also returning this summer is the Learn-to-Paddle program at Hartwells Lock, running Thursdays to Mondays in July and August.
Visitors can also book oTENTik stays or historic accommodations through Rideau Lakes Cottages. Campsites are available at select lockstations.
A temporary bridge at the LaSalle Causeway may affect tall vessels. Visit Parks Canada’s website for 2025 navigation schedules, permits, and updates.
Plan ahead, and enjoy a season full of history, nature, and fun on the water.