Lock 21 - Peterborough Lift Lock

Trent-Severn Waterway National Historic Site

One of only two hydraulic lift locks on the Waterway, Lock 21 is the highest hydraulic lift lock in the world. Opened on July 9, 1904, it leaves a visible and lasting impact on Peterborough's landscape. Quiet overnight mooring is located at the upper level. There are plenty of services within a 10-minute walk to the East City area of Peterborough.

Getting here
  • Address: 354 Hunter Street East, Peterborough, Ontario
  • Nautical chart: #2023 (more on Nautical charts)
  • Kilometer marker: 145 km (mile 90.1)
  • GPS: 44°18'28.4”N 78°18'02.1"W

Hours of Operation

Contact:
Navigational data
  • Lock length: 36.6 m (120 ft)
  • Lock width: 9.7 m (32 ft)
  • Average lift: 19.8 m (65 ft)
  • Max. mooring period: 2 nights
Facilities and services
  • Overnight mooring
  • No camping
  • Washrooms
  • Potable water (unavailable)
  • Picnic area
  • Visitor information
  • Visitors Centre (closed)
History
Construction of the Peterborough Lift Lock lockstation
Constructed: 1896-1904

Superintendent R.B. Rogers advocated a hydraulic lift lock to overcome the 65-foot change in elevation at this site. After examining lift locks in England and Europe, he supervised the 8-year process to construct the walls and towers and erect the metal tubs on steel rams. Built mainly by Canadian companies, it remains a world-class engineering feat and is a National Historic Site of Canada.

Tourism information
Google Street View
Videos
Parks Canada on Youtube

Related links

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