Peterborough Lift Lock National Historic Site
Peterborough Lift Lock National Historic Site things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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I’m visiting from out of town and heard about this historic lift. I went on a Wednesday at noon. I found the lift and walked up to the top. At first I didn’t know if visitors were allowed because no one was there. I saw some more visitors come up and the operator come out of his truck as there was 3 boats waiting. After 15 minutes, he allowed the 3 boats to get on. 15 minutes later he had the lower lift load boats. He then waited another 15 minutes to operate the lift. I don’t know if there is a schedule when the lift actually goes up and down. During the 30 minutes, I could hear the operator talk on his phone about getting beers after work and calling friends to meet up with him. It is cool to see and maybe I need to do More research to know when it actually goes up and down. I recommend bug spray as the flies were active.
Nicholas AugustineNicholas Augustine
00
Why visit: 1) It is a national historic monument in Canada. 2) It is world's highest hydraulic lift lock. You have to see the lift in action to realise why it is a national monument. 3) Part of 386 km long Trent-Severn Waterway Best way to experience: 1) You can see the lift in action between mid May to mid October from the viewing deck .It is free for visitors 2) Paddle/ kayak/canoe or cruise the canal .You need to pay a fee ( based on your vessel size) 3) Take a tourist cruise Tip: If you want to row the Trent-Severn Waterway get an unlimited access season pass.Daily passes are available for those who want to row just for a day.You can reserve mooring spots( from 45 offered by park Canada) online.Campsites facility available as well.
Su R cSu R c
00
Visiting the Peterborough Lift Lock was an awesome experience for our family. My 12-year-old was absolutely fascinated by the concept of the hydraulic lift lock—it’s incredible to see such engineering in action. The cruise captain was extremely cordial and humble, taking the time to explain how the system works, which made the experience even more educational and engaging. The canal journey itself was a delight, with beautiful scenic views all around. It's a perfect outing for both learning and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. Highly recommended!
Purnima ShrinivasanPurnima Shrinivasan
00
This is one of 8 lift locks in the world, so it's a must see if you live in Ontario! If you really want to experience the locks, try renting a canoe like I did, or doing a local cruise coz who doesn't wanna go up & down 60 feet lol. More so, it's an engineering feat (being an engineer myself) & a good way to learn & teach your kids about some basic hydraulics in action! The park staff does a phenomenal job of explaining how the lock works, as well as keeping you entertained. Make sure you visit when the museum is open!
Bleu ZaldrizesBleu Zaldrizes
00
A marvel of engineering! One of two on the Trent Severn Waterway and the largest in the world. Built in 1904 without concrete reinforcement, making it even more impressive. The second lift lock is located in Kirkfeild at lock 36, while the Peterborough lift lock is located at lock 21. I visited in the fall and summer but much preferred the autumn with its gorgeous colorful foliage. Check out the visitor center and book a lift lock cruise tour.The prices are reasonable.
Patrick S CallanPatrick S Callan
00
An amazing experience. We arrived just as boats were going through. Fascinating and bigger than life. It would not have been the same experience without seeing it in action. You can walk the stairs on the top side and on the lower side to get a close up look at all of the action. There is a lovely park with benches situated facing the waterway that encourages lingering to watch the boats as they go through the lock.
Jody ToddJody Todd
00
Nearby Attractions Of Peterborough Lift Lock National Historic Site
Trent-Severn Waterway, Lock 21 - Peterborough Lift Lock
Peterborough Museum & Archives
Trent-Severn Waterway National Historic Site
Ashburnham Memorial Park
Black's Distillery

Trent-Severn Waterway, Lock 21 - Peterborough Lift Lock
4.7
(563)
Click for details

Peterborough Museum & Archives
4.6
(152)
Click for details

Trent-Severn Waterway National Historic Site
4.7
(123)
Click for details

Ashburnham Memorial Park
4.6
(67)
Click for details
Nearby Restaurants Of Peterborough Lift Lock National Historic Site
Ashburnham Ale House
Matsu Sushi (East City) Restaurant
East City Coffee Shop
The Railyard Café and Taphouse
Hard Winter Bakery
Tim Hortons
Subway

Ashburnham Ale House
4.5
(874)
Click for details

Matsu Sushi (East City) Restaurant
4.4
(351)
$$
Click for details

East City Coffee Shop
4.7
(274)
Click for details

The Railyard Café and Taphouse
4.5
(120)
Click for details
Basic Info
Address
220 Hunter Street East, Peterborough, ON K9J 6Z6, Canada
Map
Phone
+1 705-750-4953
Call
Website
pc.gc.ca
Visit
Reviews
Overview
4.7
(184 reviews)
Ratings & Description
cultural
scenic
family-friendly
accessibility
attractions: Trent-Severn Waterway, Lock 21 - Peterborough Lift Lock, Peterborough Museum & Archives, Trent-Severn Waterway National Historic Site, Ashburnham Memorial Park, Black's Distillery, restaurants: Ashburnham Ale House, Matsu Sushi (East City) Restaurant, East City Coffee Shop, The Railyard Café and Taphouse, Hard Winter Bakery, Tim Hortons, Subway

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