Lock 45 - Port Severn

Port Severn is the northern gateway, and the smallest lock on the Waterway. Its 25.6 metre (84 ft) length limits the size of vessel that can through-navigate the entire Waterway. It is a quick boat ride from Georgian Bay Islands National Park. Lock 45 has large grounds for boater camping and picnicking. Boaters should exercise caution to the west of the lock where they pass under Highway 400, as the channel width is restricted. In periods of high water flows, boaters should be prepared to be buffeted by currents in the navigation channel below the lock.

Facilities and services

• Overnight mooring
• Camping
• Washrooms
• Potable water
• Picnic area
• Visitor information
• Ice ($)

History

Constructed: 1882-1885

In 1914, contracts were awarded to have 3 locks built to connect the Severn River to Georgian Bay at Port Severn, Big Chute, and Swift Rapids, but with the start of World War I there was a shortage of manpower and resources. Lock 45 at Port Severn was nearing completion, so it was finished as a small, "temporary" lock and remains in use to this day - holding the position of smallest lock on the system.

Tourism information

• Southeast Georgian Bay Chamber of Commerce

  Phone number: (705) 756-4863

  www.segbay.ca

• Simcoe County - Huronia Tourism Association

  Phone number: (705) 726-9300 ext 220 or 1-800-487-6642

  www.county.simcoe.on.ca

• Muskoka Tourism

  Phone number: 1-800-267-9700

  www.discovermuskoka.ca

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