Boating along the Trent-Severn in the Kawarthas

ENJOYING THE TRENT - SEVERN WATERWAYS

By Aarin Crawford Parks Canada

Peterborough Lift Lock

All Photos Courtesy of Parks Canada

Welcome to the Trent-Severn Waterway, a unique National Historic Site where you will engage in experiences that foster life long memories.

The Trent-Severn is 386 km of lakes, rivers, historic canals and locks that connect the boating playgrounds of Lake Ontario and Lake Huron. This waterway is a true salute to human ingenuity.

When you embark on a boating voyage on the Trent- Severn Waterway, at each lockstation you will encounter friendly Parks Canada staff who embody the true spirit of Canada with their friendly welcome and their passion for sharing the stories of the Trent- Severn.

Moor your vessel at one of our lockstations and discover a number of communities with their own unique qualities. Explore lumber and mill towns, farm villages, cottage country, and city centers each offering a large variety of accommodations; festivals; events; artisans; cuisine; breweries; and their own distinct history.

Follow the stepping stones of Canadian history and travel the same route Champlain did in 1615. Stop in to visit some of the local merchants in the Indigenous communities that have called this land their home since time immemorial. Take a moment to experience the Big Chute Marine Railway in action at Lock 44. Gaze upon a starry sky around a campfire at some of our more remote sites or stare up at the towering Peterborough Lift Lock.

Motorized boating is not the only way to experience this beautiful waterway. In fact, we welcome and encourage paddlers. Paddling the Trent-Severn provides long distance paddlers a backcountry experience while offering the modern convenience of urban areas such as grocery stores, vendors and evening

entertainment. You won’t even need to portage. Imagine riding Big Chute in your canoe or kayak, an experience you will never have elsewhere. Add the Trent-Severn to your “must paddle” list.

When boating the Trent-Severn system you will find yourself surrounded by the spectacular landscapes of the pre-Cambrian and the Canadian Shield. Throw a line into any of the lakes along the system and see what bites. And with any luck, you will have the opportunity to encounter wildlife on your journey.

Big Chute Marine Railway

We offer first-come-first-served camping, available at the majority of our lockstations, oTEN- Tik accommodations, reservable camping at select locations, and the unique experience of staying in a rustic cabin at Lock 35 - Rosedale.

Come find memories you will carry with you for many years to come.

For more information visit parkscanada.gc.ca/trent

Peterborough Lift Lock