The Trent-Severn Waterway officially reopens for the 2025 navigation season on Friday, May 16, and this year Parks Canada is highlighting the return of its popular Lock & Paddle event.
Held on Canada’s Parks Day, July 19, the Lock & Paddle brings together hundreds of paddlers for a unique mass lock-through at the Peterborough Lift Lock. It’s part of a special “triple crown” paddling series this year, with companion events planned in Ottawa and Montreal. Participation is free and open to anyone with a canoe or kayak.
“Lock & Paddle continues to be one of our most popular events,” Parks Canada said in a release. “We’re thrilled to bring it back after record turnout in 2024.”
The Trent-Severn Waterway is a 386-kilometre National Historic Site that stretches from Trenton to Port Severn, passing through scenic waterways, cultural sites, and historic lockstations, including many in Northumberland County.
Regular lockage and mooring permits are available at all lockstations and online. Hours of operation vary through the season, with longer weekend hours in summer.
The waterway will be open from May 16 to October 13. Visitors are encouraged to boat, paddle, or cycle the route and consider unique overnight stays like oTENTiks and reservable campsites.
Safety remains a top priority, especially with high spring flows and floating debris. Boaters are reminded to be cautious and to reduce wake near shorelines.
For more information and updates on Lock & Paddle or the full season schedule, visit parks.canada.ca/trentsevern or follow @TrentSevernNHS on social media.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
