Locking in on Canada Strong
A summer of free travel on the historic Trent-Severn Waterway
What if your travel plans this summer were about the destination and the journey? On the Trent–Severn Waterway National Historic Site, where a close-up experience with a centuries-old lock gives way to a charming waterfront community around every bend, you get the best of both worlds: a rare opportunity to enjoy the process of getting there as much as the places you choose to stay.
With the return of the Canada Strong Pass in 2026, there’s never been a better time to get out there and explore this world-renowned waterway. From June 19 to September 7 inclusive, Parks Canada is offering free lockage to boaters, paddlers, and PWC at every site from Lock 1 in Trenton to Lock 45 on Georgian Bay. In addition, 25% off camping and roofed accommodations at Parks Canada places, provides a great reason for any visitor to spend the night at a historic site.
386km of adventure is waiting for you, so here are some tips for making the most out of a summer on the locks. Your story starts here.
#1 Plan Ahead
Trying something new can feel intimidating, but a little prep goes a long way towards staying safe and having fun. The Parks Canada website is a great resource loaded with Trip Planning tools and information on: Hours of operation, nautical charts, navigational aids, locking through safely instructions, maps and more. Be sure to check the weather before heading out and share a copy of your travel plans with a loved one.
Plan Your Visit > parks.canada.ca/trentsevern
#2 Build in time off the boat
You only get to know a country by experiencing its culture, and the historic locks are your gateway to some of Canada’s most charming local flavour. Plan time to step ashore and explore local shops, dining, trails, museums, and events along the waterway. Take advantage of those moments of spontaneity, and chat with other boaters—you might just get a hot tip on a hidden gem!
10 must-visit communities > tswtrailtowns.ca
#3 No Boat? No Problem!
You don’t need your own vessel to get in on the action. You’ll find rental companies and licensed operators in every region, so check your local listings and plan to borrow a boat. And if you’re just looking for some peaceful green space to park a lawn chair and have a picnic, you could do no worse than an afternoon along the wall watching the boats go through.
Bring your camera!
