This summer two of Canada’s most historic waterways—the Rideau Canal and the TrentSevern System—share in the centennial celebrations of Parks Canada, the body that oversees their operation. In 1911, the Canadian government decided to protect the natural legacy of places like Banff, Alberta and the cultural legacy of sites like the fortifications of Quebec City on the St. Lawrence River. Now, one hundred years later, Canadians—and Parks Canada—are holding a yearlong party. “Doors Open” activities are taking place across the country this summer, including features like free admission and special events. August will see a tribute to Canadian forts—from
Fort George on the Niagara River to Fort Henry at the most easterly reaches of Lake Ontario. It’s part of an unparalleled festival; a celebration of a century-long saga of a network that today encompasses 42 national parks, 167 historic sites and four national marine conservation areas. One such historic site is the Rideau Canal, completed in 1832 as a military waterway to protect Canadian interests, providing marine access between the Great Lakes and Ottawa, the country’s capital. Though the Rideau actually celebrated its sesquicentennial two years ago, it’s still party-central for Parks Canada. Another historic system is the TrentSevern Waterway. The first part of the name— and the southeast terminus—is due to the Trent River. At the other end the system follows the course of the Severn River, meandering through pristine forests and prime examples of the Near North—wind-crippled pine trees and pink granite forming perfect backdrops for those nights at dock or secret anchorages that may have sheltered boats for millennia.
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Though the system was only begun in 1833 with a single lock at Bobcaygeon and wasn’t completely navigable from end to end until 1920, it marks one of the earliest water routes in North America. People have used this route for 10,000 years. From the shores of Georgian Bay near the mouth of the Severn River, Champlain set out with a band of Huron warriors, following the river into a chain of lakes north of Lake Ontario then on south, portaging this route where necessary, attacking the Iroquois in New York and retracing this water route to winter at Orillia, crown jewel of the Trent-Severn. Nowadays, the system is primarily a pleasure boaters’ paradise, but it still offers a fascinating glimpse of history, culture and engineering wonders. It is 241 miles long, with 44 locks. It takes five to seven days to traverse it one way—a water route joining Georgian Bay to Lake Ontario—though you shouldn’t rush. Take time to explore First Nations’ petroglyphs and catch some live theatre. Spend a few days in Orillia, then make your way to Georgian Bay. Ride the world’s tallest hydraulic lift locks at Peterborough, then watch your boat go for a train ride at Big Chute, Canada’s only marine railway. Then cut a piece of birthday cake and join the festivities. For when you traverse the Trent-Severn—one of Canada’s most historic waterways—you’ll have plenty to celebrate. — M.S.