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(Frequently Asked Questions)
Ken W. Watson
What is the Rideau Canal Waterway?
The Rideau is a series of rivers, lakes and connecting locks and canals that form a continuous waterway from Kingston to Ottawa, in eastern Ontario, Canada. It is 202 kilometres (125 miles) long, of which about 19 kilometres (12 miles) is man made, the rest are natural waters. To view location maps, head over to: www.rideau-info.com/canal/maps.html (click this link).
Can I paddle all of the waterway?
Yes – the Rideau is ideal flatwater paddling, so everyone from the novice to expert can do it. Canoes and kayaks are welcome to travel through the locks (there are no restrictions other than the required fee permit – see below). Canoes and kayaks can also portage (for free) around the locks if they wish. All lockstation with the exception of Ottawa and Smiths Falls Combined provide camping areas for boaters (a fee applies, see below) plus there are a number of private campgrounds and two Provincial Parks along the route.
Who Operates the Rideau?
The Rideau is operated by the Parks Canada Agency, which is under the authority of the Canadian Government Department of Environment. They maintain the heritage aspects of the canal and operate it much like a park.
When and why was it built?
It was built between 1826 and 1831. It pre-dates the locks on the St. Lawrence, and was built to assist the defence of Canada by allowing boats to travel from Montreal to the Great Lakes without having to travel down the St. Lawrence, in gunshot range of the Americans. It was officially opened in May, 1832 and has been operated continuously ever since.
Who built it?
It was built by the British under the direction of Lt. Colonel John By of the Royal Engineers. Private contractors, such as John Redpath and Thomas McKay, did most of the actual construction. Two companies of Royal Sappers and Miners assisted in the construction. The bulk of the work was done by thousands of Irish and French-Canadian labourers. For details about the construction, visit the History of the Rideau Canal webpage at: www.rideau-info.com/canal/history/ (click this link).
What makes the Rideau unique?
It is the oldest continuously operated canal in North America. Most of the locks are still operated by hand, using the same mechanisms that were used to operate the locks in 1832. As you travel the Rideau, you are viewing living history. The Rideau isn’t just a canal cut (only 10% is man-made), it’s a waterway combining canals, rivers and lakes. This makes the Rideau a wonderful blend of urban, rural and natural landscapes. You can see million dollar homes, quaint cottages, and loons swimming in a sheltered, undisturbed bay, all in the same day.
What type of Canoe/Kayak do I need?
Any type of canoe or kayak will do. Since it is flatwater paddling, the ideal canoe is a “tripping” style of canoe. Kayakers will prefer a sea kayak with some cargo capacity for carrying gear.
Are the any difficult sections?
The sections that canoeists in particular should pay attention to are the lakes with large expanses of open water. These include Big Rideau Lake, Upper Rideau Lake and Colonel By Lake. If the wind is blowing, these lakes can get quite rough. On the other lakes (which can also get rough in stormy weather) there are enough nearby nooks and shelters that a canoeist can easily avoid rough water. However, with a prudent eye to the weather and sticking close to shore, all the lakes, including Big Rideau, Upper Rideau and Colonel By can be a very enjoyable paddle.
Are there other paddling issues?
One should be aware of where the navigation channel lies and of cruisers that travel along that navigation way. When travelling at speed, these cruisers can create large waves (wash) and not all are considerate of the poor paddler. However, cruiser traffic volume on the Rideau is low and it is quite easy to be aware of that cruisers and avoid problems with their waves. It is often best for paddlers to take the scenic route and travel off the navigation channel.
Do I need any special gear?
You should pack as you would for any normal paddling trip, making sure you are carrying all the required safety gear. A note to kayakers is that you might wish to carry a spray skirt in the event of wavy or rainy weather. While I've never had a problem with water in my kayak, even in the "worst" conditions on the Rideau (white cap waves), I'm doing day trips with a lighter load than would be the case with a multi-day trip. I received a note from one kayaker who took on water in wavy conditions on Lower Rideau Lake (he didn't have a spray skirt). I also carry a hand pump on the bow of my kayak.
Do I need a map?
Yes – there are a few of choices, the 1:50,000 NTS maps, the 1:20,000 hydrographic charts or the 1:20,000 Trak maps. A good map is very worthwhile since it shows all the islands and shorelines and allows you to explore all the interesting nooks and crannies that would otherwise be missed if you simply followed the marked navigation way. So a good set of maps is highly recommended.
Some paddlers like the NTS maps since these show detailed topography and tributaries that connect to the Rideau, features that may be of interest to the paddler. Six 1:50,000 scale NTS maps cover the waterway, from south to north they are 31C/8, 31C/9, 31C/16, 31B/13, 31G/4 and 31G/5.
Others like the hydrographic charts, since they are the most detailed maps of the Rideau (1:20,000) and include detailed insets of all the locks. The charts also clearly show all the numbered marker buoys (giving you a quick clue to your location on the open water). Chart 1512 covers from Ottawa to Smiths Falls and Chart 1513 covers Smiths Falls to Kingston.
Some like the Trak maps, which are a combination of hydrographic and NTS map data. So they show topography and building locations as well as the marker buoys and hydrographic data (but no detailed lockstation insets). The downside is that they are large (12" x 18") laminated sheets.
My personal preference is for the hydrographic charts and/or the Trak maps since these show the most detail of the waterway. For day paddling, I copy 8.5" x 11" sections (I use my scanner at home) from these maps and put them in a dry map case. I leave the large maps back at the house and just take the sections I need in a convenient and waterproof manner.
Another resource that can be helpful (or at least interesting) is Google Earth - much of the Rideau is covered by high resolution satellite imagery, so you can see exactly where you plan to go.
For those carrying a GPS unit, the "MapSource Topo Canada" GPS maps are handy to have since they include the entire Canadian NTS series maps. It is still advised that you carry a paper set of maps in addition to your GPS unit in case the batteries run out.
For more information about maps that cover the Rideau, have a look at the maps page: www.rideau-info.com/canal/map_list.html (click this link).
When is the Rideau open for boating?
The locks operate from mid-May to mid-October. For exact dates see the fees & schedules page located at: www.rideau-info.com/canal/fees.html (click this link). Of course with so many sections of natural water, you can paddle anytime there is open water and for those willing to portage, the navigation season (when the locks are open) is not a restriction.
Do the locks operate 24 hours a day?
No - the hours vary. During most of the season the locks open at 8:30 am. In spring and fall, they close by 3:30 to 4:30 pm. In the summer they stay open until 7:30 pm. For full details see the fees & schedules page at: www.rideau-info.com/canal/fees.html (click this link).
What is the preferred direction of travel?
Prevailing winds are from the west-southwest (direction of the jet-stream), so it can be a bit easier paddling northeast, from Kingston to Ottawa. Of note, winds are more unpredicatable in the fall (storms moving up the east coast of North America can drive winds inland, creating an east wind). In terms of currents in the rivers, since the Rideau traverses two watersheds, you will be with or against minimal currents both ways. The southern half of the Rideau (Cataraqui Watershed) flows south while the northern half (Rideau Valley Watershed) flows north. However, since the Rideau is a “slackwater” system, there are no appreciable currents to contend with.
How long does it take to paddle the Rideau?
How fast do you paddle? This is a question almost impossible to answer on a general basis. My cruising speed in a kayak (minimal stops) is about 5 kph, but my puttering speed (photo stops, pit stops, drifting breaks, snack breaks, lunch break, leg stretching breaks, etc.) is about 4 kph. A tandem canoe should be about the same. The direct distance along the route of the canal is 202 kilometres (if you don’t take any side trips) and in addition the paddling, there are 24 lockstations to lock through or portage around. A very general rule of thumb is to allow 6 to 10 days to do the journey. The Rideau contains 292 islands and 1091 kilometres of shoreline in addition to several tributaries and feeder lakes – so you could spend as long as you like and still find new areas to explore.
How much does it cost to go through the locks?
You can portage around the locks for free or pay a fee and go through the locks. Parks Canada charges a fee by the foot (12 foot minimum). The following are based on 2008 fees. If you just want to go through one lock, it will cost $0.90 per foot. If you transit the entire system one way, a transit pass will cost you $4.65 per foot. There are various other options (one day, 6 day, season pass). So, if you’re in a 16 foot canoe, a single lockage and return would cost $14.40, and a transit pass for the entire system would cost $74.40 (pretty cheap to save you all that portaging). For full fee information visit: www.rideau-info.com/canal/fees.html (click this link).
Can I portage the locks?
Certainly. Portaging is sometimes faster than locking through (depending on how much gear you have to lug) and provides more exercise. Several of the lockstations have a low rafted dock (made up of squared timbers) in the water making it easy to take a canoe/kayak in or out. A few lockstations are actually marked with a portage sign. At all locks you can always pull out at the blue line dock (all lockstations have these docks even if they don’t have the more convenient rafted dock). When portaging, it is best to stop first and ask one of the lockstaff regarding the best route to take.
Where can I make Pit Stops?
Washroom facilities are available at all the lockstations as well as parks, conservation areas, marinas and campgrounds. Of note with the lockstation is that some these can be closed at night if no one is staying at the lockstation (something to be aware of if you arrive late). Answering the call of nature between these locations can be technically problematic since most of the land bordering the Rideau is privately owned. However, quite a bit of waterfront (almost 50%) and many islands remain undeveloped along the Rideau - so (and you never heard it from me) - if you have go, keep your eye out for an undeveloped spot. Please leave the area undisturbed.
Can I consume alchohol while paddling?
No. The law in Ontario regarding alchohol in any vessel (including canoes and kayaks) is the same as it is for a motor vehicle. No open liquor and if you're found to be impared, your driver's licence will be automatically suspended for 90 days and you'll be subject to impaired "driving" penalties.
Where can I park my vehicle?
There are a number of options for vehicle parking. One option is a campground – some provide parking space for your vehicle while you are away on your trip. Contact the individual campground first. A listing of campgrounds can be found at: www.rideau-info.com/canal/accommodations.html(click this link).
Another option is the lockstations, several offer weekly parking rates. However, be aware that the parking lots are unsupervised and Parks Canada does not recommend leaving your vehicle for extended periods.
Can I rent a canoe/kayak?
Yes - there are a few options. Currently, canoes and kayaks can be rented from Frontenac Outfitters, Jenda Watersports, Canal Gallery, Ahoy Rentals, Westport Village Rental and Trailhead. For more information visit their websites which you will find linked from www.rideau-info.com/canal/boat_rent.html (click this link).
What should I bring to fully enjoy the Rideau experience
The Rideau is not only a lovely waterway to paddle, it is also an historic waterway. For current information about the Rideau, the best guide is the Rideau Boating and Road Guide. To get the most about the history and heritage of the Rideau, a copy of Ken Watson’s "A History of the Rideau Lockstations" is a must have, it provides an historic visitors guide to the locks. Ken's most recent book "The Rideau Route: Exploring the Pre-Canal Waterway" is of interest to paddlers since it documents the early surveys of the Rideau (done using birch bark canoes). Other very interesting history books are Robert Legget’s "Rideau Waterway" and Robert Passfield’s "Building the Rideau Canal: A Pictorial History". These books (and many more) are available from Friends of the Rideau: www.rideaufriends.com/sales/ (click this link)
Where can I find more information about paddling the Rideau
A good place to start is the canoeing/kayaking section at www.rideau-info.com/canal/canoe/ (click this link). It contains a trip planner as well as several paddling guides including Don MacKay’s excellent “Paddling the Rideau”. It is also a good idea to contact the Rideau Canal Office of Parks Canada and have them mail you an information package. Contact information can be found at the end of this FAQ.
Where is the best place to camp?
The lockstations are the most convenient. Camping is allowed at 24 of the 26 lockstations (only Smiths Falls Combined and Ottawa don’t have camping facilities), plus Colonel By Island. There is a fee for camping, either a mooring permit for your canoe/kayak or just a camping fee (most people prefer to pull their canoe/kayak out of the water and therefore pay the camping fee). There are also several private campgrounds along the Rideau that offer more facilities such as showers. In addition, there are two provincial parks, Murphy’s Point and Rideau River that offer camping options. For listings of private campgrounds, check the accommodations page at: www.rideau-info.com/canal/accommodations.html(click this link).
What camping services are offered at lockstations?
All lockstations offer toilets, picnic tables and water (check with the lockstaff at each lockstation regarding potability). Many also offer BBQ grills and a few lockstations sell ice. None offer showers. Camping usually involves pitching a tent on the lawn of the lockstation. Large shade trees are present at many lockstations. Only a few of the lockstations have a public telephone. For more information on lockstation services see: www.rideau-info.com/canal/lock-services.html (click this link). For information about camping at a lockstation see www.rideau-info.com/canal/lock-camping.html (click this link).
Are there non-camping options?
Yes – there are many B&Bs, motels, inns and lodges that line the Rideau. Unfortunately at this time there is no indication of which of these will directly cater to the canoeist (i.e. offering a pull-out and overnight storage of canoe and gear), so it best to ask each potential accommodation directly. A listing of accommodations, sorted by geographic order can be found at: www.rideau-info.com/canal/accommodations.html (click this link)
Do I have to stock up on supplies?
No - there are many services available along the Rideau. There are several communities along the Rideau that have grocery stores within easy walking distance of a docking area so you can stock up on food, ice, drinks, etc. You’ll find links to many of the towns, with maps and a listing of services from the maps page at: www.rideau-info.com/canal/maps.html (click this link).
May I have an open fire while camping at a lockstation?
Only in the designated BBQ grill. You may burn charcoal or wood. If you plan to burn wood, you must bring your own since Parks Canada does not sell campfire wood or allow it to be cut or scavenged on site. If you bring your own wood they ask that it not be ash because of the risk of importing the emerald ash borer insect.
May I use a camp stove?
Yes – using the appropriate fuel and following the manufacturer’s safety guidelines.
May I drink alcohol at a lockstation?
No – the land (including wharfs) of a lockstation are considered to invite or allow public access and therefore no alcohol can be consumed on Rideau Canal property.
Where do I put my garbage?
All lockstations provide garbage cans (green barrels) and most also provide recycling options for aluminum and glass (blue barrels).
Are there any wildlife issues?
No. The most common wildlife in the vicinity of most lockstations are muskrats, racoons, porcupines and the occasional skunk. Deer are common in the area but not often seen. Black bears, while present in some of the more remote areas, are extremely uncommon (there has not been a bear sighting at a lockstation in recent years). There are some snakes, none are venemous and they all keep away from people. Normal wildlife precautions, such as keeping food in well sealed containers, cleaning your meal dishes, and properly disposing of garbage should be taken.
May I bring my pet?
Yes – however, while on the grounds of a lockstation, the pet should be:
a) restrained by a harness or a leash that is no longer than 3 m or
b) confined in a container or enclosure
and every person who is in charge of a pet shall ensure that any excrement or other solid waste that originates from the pet is disposed of in a receptacle. [Historic Canal Regulations]
CONTACTS
Parks Canada Agency
Rideau Canal Office
34 Beckwith St. South,
Smiths Falls, ON K7A 2A8
Tel: 613-283-5170
Toll Free: 1-888-773-8888
Fax: 613-283-0677
email: RideauCanal-info@pc.gc.ca
website: www.pc.gc.ca/rideaucanal(click this link).
Friends of the Rideau
1 Jasper Avenue
Smiths Falls, ON K7A 4B5
Tel: 613-283-5810
email: info@rideaufriends.com
website: www.rideaufriends.com (click this link).
FAQ compiled by: Ken Watson (kwatson@kos.net)
Date Created: June 5, 2003
Date Updated: April 4, 2008
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Comments: send me email: Ken WatsonThis page was last updated on: April 4, 2008
URL: www.rideau-info.com/canal/canoe/faq.html
© 2003-2008 Ken W. Watson