Carillon Canal, Historic canal in Saint-André-d'Argenteuil, Canada.
The Carillon Canal runs alongside the Ottawa River with a lock system managing a vertical drop of 20 meters between water levels. The structure stretches for several kilometers and allows boats to navigate the significant elevation change.
British military engineers built it between 1826 and 1833 to create a secure transportation corridor between Montreal and Kingston. This route was strategically vital for strengthening trade and military communication across the region.
The museum housed in the old barracks tells the story of how this waterway shaped regional life and connected communities through trade and travel.
The site is open to visitors from late spring through early fall when boats can pass through the locks. Keep in mind that vessels navigate only during daylight hours and Parks Canada manages navigation services.
The lock features a guillotine gate mechanism that moves boats through the substantial water level difference in a single operation. This engineering approach was a remarkable solution when it was built for managing such extreme elevation changes.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
