Friends of the Rideau

06/03/2026

NEW ➡️➡️ Check the status of locks, bridges and services, all in one place 🛥️

We’ve launched a central traveller information webpage showing current operating information for locks, bridges and services across the system.

✅ One official source
✅ Always current
✅ Bookmark the page and check it before you travel

🔗 https://parks.canada.ca/lhn-nhs/on/rideau/visit/posteeclusage-lockstation

06/02/2026

Spring is a great time to start planning your upcoming adventures on the Rideau Canal. 🚤🛶🏕️

As you look ahead to the season, don’t forget: thanks to the Canada Strong Pass, boaters and paddlers can enjoy free lockage from June 19 to September 7. 🇨🇦

Start planning now and get ready to make the most of this incredible opportunity later in the season!

https://parks.canada.ca/lhn-nhs/on/rideau/visit/laissez-passer-canada-pass

06/01/2026

Today we invite our visitors to celebrate Global Day of Parents! 🎉 Whether it’s a boat ride 🛥 or an oTENTik stay⛺, there are many fun activities to enjoy along the waterway with your parents. ➡ https://parks.canada.ca/lhn-nhs/on/rideau/activ

05/29/2026

05/29/2026

A new destination plan positions the Town of Smiths Falls as an “active canal town.”

The plan treats visitors as potential future residents, investors, workers and business owners while linking tourism more directly to economic development.

The three-year strategy includes stronger visitor data collection, improved tourism marketing, new performance measurement tools and a focus on understanding whether tourism marketing and engagement are translating into visits and spending. It also highlights assets including the Rideau Canal, downtown, waterfront, Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario, Smiths Falls Heritage House Museum and local events.

Staff will continue discussions with tourism and business partners before the plan is finalized and implemented. Link in comments for details.