Here in Kawarthas Northumberland we’re always talking about the Trent-Severn Waterway. This summer, there’s one more reason to get excited about the TSW: the Canada Strong Pass means lockage is free from June 19 to September 7, 2026.
The Waterway is 386-kilometre National Historic Site of Canada made up of a series of lakes, rivers, and canals. It begins at Lake Ontario in the south in Trenton, and winds northwest to Port Severn and Georgian Bay. Parks Canada typically charges for a lockage permit, but in summer 2026 both Canadian and international travellers will receive those permits free.
The pass comes with other benefits too, including a 25% discount on Parks Canada camping and roofed accommodation. There’s never been a better time to check out the Ôasis pods at Lock 9 – Meyers or Lock 10 – Hagues Reach. These unique teardrop-shaped accommodations provide a stylish glamping opportunity close to the Waterway, with amenities such as solar-powered USB outlets and propane BBQs.
Also of note are the oTENTik at Douro – Lock 24 and Lock 35 – Rosedale. These sites bridge the gap between tenting and indoor accommodation with off-the-ground beds and barbeques, not to mention excellent waterside views. Traditional tent camping is also available at Lock 8 – Percy Reach and Lock 35 – Rosedale. See our previous blog post to learn more about camping in Kawarthas Northumberland.
If the Canada Strong Pass has piqued your curiosity, be aware it takes about a week to traverse the entire length of the TSW. Many boaters choose to do only a section, lingering in their areas of interest or covering short stretches on day trips. About 80% of the Waterway is found within Kawarthas Northumberland, and one of its pleasures is visiting the region’s diverse cities, towns and villages.
The Trent-Severn Trail Towns are a series of ten communities found along the TSW. The businesses here are knowledgeable about the Waterway and accustomed to serving its travellers—just look for the Trail Town Friendly designation on their doors. From restaurants and museums to craft breweries and clothiers, there’s an enormous variety here to choose from.
Travellers along the TSW who reach Peterborough, for instance, will probably see Lock 21 as one of the highlights of their journey. It’s the highest hydraulic lift lock in the world and a marvel of engineering—andjust a short distance from the top-tier attraction that is The Canadian Canoe Museum and the vibrant shopfronts of Peterborough’s East City. That’s just one Trail Town of ten—continue north to experience the sunny patios of Bobcaygeon, or head to Coboconk and earn the bragging rights of having travelled the Freshwater Summit, the highest point in North America from which a boater can circumnavigate the globe. Further south, experience the phenomenal fishing of Hastings, or Campbellford’s stunning Ranney Gorge.
Ready to start planning a trip? From Monday to Thursday in summer, the locks open at 9:00 am and offer the last lockage at 5:30 pm. Friday to Saturday, including statutory holidays, the last lockage is extended to 6:30 pm. Parks Canada recommends boaters review their travel times and check water levels before setting out. Note the Canada Strong Pass doesn’t extend to services along the Waterway such as mooring, parking, and shore power, and applies only to free lockage and discounting camping.
The Trent-Severn Waterway has long been one of Ontario’s top attractions. In 2026, the Canada Strong Pass makes it irresistible to boaters, history buffs, and thrifty travellers alike.
