The leaves are changing, the crowds have departed, and the Trent-Severn Waterway feels like it’s all yours. Boating the TSW in September and early October has different feel than the height of summer, and it’s a well worth experiencing whether it’s your first trip or an annual tradition.
Nothing changes radically in the fall, but there are a few things you might want to be aware of—here’s a quick reminder list.
Last Lockage is Earlier
Trent-Severn Waterway National Historic Site hours change September 3 to October 14. With last lockage happening at 3:30pm on weekdays and 4:30pm on weekends, you may have to adjust your schedule slightly to accommodate the earlier close. See the Parks Canada website for more info on lock passes, accommodations, and more.
Rent a Houseboat
If it’s your first time on the TSW, you’ll quickly realize that a houseboat is an ideal way to explore. A gentle cruising speed gives you time to admire the scenery; having everything you need on board allows you to drop anchor wherever seems appealing and enjoy the landscape. Big Island on Pigeon Lake is a great example—this is a popular spot to pause in the shade of the island and swim, picnic, or even hike the trails if you go ashore.
If you’re looking to rent a houseboat, Le Boat has recently expanded to bring their premium watercraft the Trent-Severn Waterway. Longstanding local institutions Egan Houseboat Rentals and R&R Houseboat Rentals are also great choices. All three remain open until about mid-October.
A license isn’t needed to operate a rented houseboat, and you’ll be given a lesson before you set out on your own. If piloting through locks sounds daunting, however, there’s always the cruise option.
Take the Triple Crown Fall Colours Cruise
If you’re happiest as a passenger, Liftlock Cruises is an excellent bet. Their Trip Crown Fall Colours Cruise will take you through a prime stretch of seasonal colour, departing from Peterborough and heading up to Trent University. On top of the natural beauty, you’ll have the bragging rights of saying you went through the Peterborough Lift Lock, an engineering marvel and the world’s highest hydraulic lift lock.
The total trip takes three hours, and the fully licensed snack bar means you can treat yourself to a bite or a beverage while on board.
Visit the TSW Trail Towns
The beauty of the TSW is it puts you close to so many Kawarthas Northumberland vibrant communities. The Trent-Severn Trail Towns are the obvious example, as these towns are highly skilled at catering to the needs and interests of boaters. You’ll find them all along the length of the TSW, with Coboconk as the northernmost point stretching to Campbellford in the southwest.
Each Trail Town has a dedicated page showcasing a few featured attractions. Hastings for example encourages visitors to try some world-class fishing, while Lindsay’s recommends a stroll down Kent St. Be sure to check the complete directory Trent-Severn Trail Town Friendly Businesses as well, as you’ll find everything from restaurants, accommodations, and boating supplies.
Explore Your Options Onshore
Of course, you can also use this very website for inspiration. Since you’re never far from the Waterway, you could arrange a visit to our recommended hiking trails, specifically selected for vibrant fall colours. Or you might apply seasoned fishing guide Bobby Belmonte’s advice for bass fishing in fall. Time it just right, and you could even coordinate with Westben’s Sounds in Nature event, running September 28 and 29 in 2024.
Wherever You Go, Bring Your Camera
There are a range of attractions associated with the TSW, but ultimately the main draw will probably be the colourful treeline and gentle autumn weather. Up north in the Coboconk/Rosedale area, you’ll find things get quieter after cottage season, allowing you to enjoy things like Balsam Lake’s stretch of undeveloped shoreline, the longest in the Kawarthas, but there are vista to be had along the entire length of the TSW. Wherever you go, we think you’ll enjoy the pitch-perfect balance of natural serenity and nearby amenities.
