Rideau Canal National Historic Site of Canada
Paddling the Rideau Canal
A Guide to Canoeing and Kayaking
Safety Tips
Rideau Canal©Parks CanadaFor your safety, stay away from any dams and waste weirs. For the most part, these hazards are located near lockstations and marked with either signs or orange and white booms.
Watch out for boatwash or wake, and be prepared to handle the on-coming waves either by turning into the wave or using a low brace to stabilize the boat.
Wind - check weather forecasts before heading out, and choose your route accordingly.
During a multi-day excursion, think ahead and check with lock staff as to the conditions for the next leg of your journey. Know the wind direction (not always a prevailing wind) and how this will affect your craft (head, side, or tail wind).
During periods of high water (April to mid-June), river flows/currents increase in strength and paddlers should be cautious. However, paddling current on the main channel does not exceed Class I. Other sections of the canal (dams and their run-off) can be classified as Class VI.
Make sure that you carry the following equipment:
- a lifejacket for each person, on or within easy reach
- an extra paddle
- a bailing can
- a whistle or a horn for emergencies
- a throw rope - floating rope is preferable.
Places to Camp or Stay other than Lockstations
Rideau Canal©Parks CanadaCamping is available on Colonel By Island on Big Rideau Lake. This government island has a beautiful two-km walking trail and an interior lake that opens onto the main lake. Lost Lake is not suitable for powerboats, but great for a nice evening or morning paddle. Deer, osprey and loons are but a few inhabitants of this island.
Murphy's Point Provincial Park, located on the Big Rideau, has several paddle-in camping areas. Rideau River Provincial Park is located near Becketts Landing northwest of Kemptville.
If you prefer other accommodations, there are a number of hotels, lodges and bed & breakfasts along the way.
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