Lock & Paddle 2026 – Ottawa
Paddle into the lock alongside a flash mob of colourful canoes and kayaks, and descend through the locks to the sounds of laughter and music. Make new memories with friends and family with your paddles up at Hartwells in Ottawa.
Plus — with the Canada Strong Pass, enjoy free lockage from June 19 to September 7. It’s the perfect time to explore this incredible canal.
Rules and requirements
• All-ages and skill levels welcome;
• No stand up paddleboards;
• No inflatable vessels (stand-up paddle boards, kayaks, or otherwise);
• All paddlers/passengers must wear a PFD in order to participate;
• Smoke-free event;
• Cannabis-free event;
• Alcohol-free event;
• No pets on boats;
• No throwing beach balls or other objects inside the locks;
• Participants must always remain seated;
• Respect your fellow paddlers!
Visit our website for more information about parking, launch options, and rules: https://parks.canada.ca/lhn-nhs/on/rideau/activ/pagaie-paddling/eclusez-pagayez-lock-paddle
Plus — with the Canada Strong Pass, enjoy free lockage from June 19 to September 7. It’s the perfect time to explore this incredible canal.
Rules and requirements
• All-ages and skill levels welcome;
• No stand up paddleboards;
• No inflatable vessels (stand-up paddle boards, kayaks, or otherwise);
• All paddlers/passengers must wear a PFD in order to participate;
• Smoke-free event;
• Cannabis-free event;
• Alcohol-free event;
• No pets on boats;
• No throwing beach balls or other objects inside the locks;
• Participants must always remain seated;
• Respect your fellow paddlers!
Visit our website for more information about parking, launch options, and rules: https://parks.canada.ca/lhn-nhs/on/rideau/activ/pagaie-paddling/eclusez-pagayez-lock-paddle
Where is it happening?
Rideau Canal: Hartwells Locks, 901 Prince of Wales Dr,Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.
Host or PublisherRideau Canal National Historic Site, Parks Canada
