Peterborough Lift Lock National Historic Site — Attraction in Peterborough

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...

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...

This Lift Lock is exceptionally tall for Ontario, and was everything I wanted a lift lock to be... calm and gracious when waiting, and quick and forceful when in operation...

It raises boaters many meters up to the level of lake Simcoe or so eventually, and it was operational and good to look at and entertaining to watch...

Everything I wanted in a lift lock... especially for Peterborough, which doesn't have many...

The museum information building wasn't open but a speaker told you when it was going to do its thing so you could get ready to take pictures... amazing...

Would...