Fall Boating: Explore The Trent-Severn Waterway this Autumn
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 a 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, and few recommendations that could be the perfect addition to your trip.
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.
Take in the Sights
Boating is only half the fun—many attractions along the Trent-Severn Waterway are a stone’s throw from the water, and make excellent stops for boaters looking to get out, stretch their legs, and take in some culture.
View the world’s largest collection of canoes, kayaks, and paddled watercraft at this premier Peterborough attraction.
2077 Ashburnham Dr, Peterborough
Take in the view of scenic Ranney Gorge and explore the peaceful Drumlin Trail of Ferris Provincial Park.
Trent Dr, Campbellford
This National Historic Site of Canada is the largest hydraulic lift lock in the world, and a must-visit for history buffs.
354 Hunter St E, Peterborough
The toonie’s iconic design originated in Campbellford, a fact the town celebrates with this unique monument.
Old Mill Park, Campbellford
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 to 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.
Grab a Bite
There’s nothing quite like tying up and enjoying a meal steps from the water. The businesses below are just a sampling of the bounty along the TSW—visit our Food & Drink page for more.
If you’re making a stop in Hastings, it’s hard to miss McGillicafey—delicious, centrally located, and readily accessible to boaters.
13 Bridge St N, Hastings
Delicious cuisine paired with handcrafted beers, enjoyed in a historic 1880s building just steps from Lock 34? This one’s an easy choice for beer lovers stopping in Fenelon Falls.
4 May St, Fenelon Falls
The Lock 34 Lemon Meringue Pie is a sumptuous treat from the heart of cottage country (and you may be tempted to take home a few butter tarts, too).
6 Francis St E, Fenelon Falls
The Trail Town Special Pizza is Pizza Alloro’s take on the classic Canadian—give it a try and see why Pizza Alloro makes Buckhorn’s favourite slice.
5 Main St, Buckhorn
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 southeast.
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 of Trent-Severn Trail Town Friendly Businesses as well, as you’ll find everything from restaurants, accommodations, and boating supplies.
Explore Your Options Onshore
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. There are also quiet canoe routes to explore under paddle power—see our Paddling page for more.
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.
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—just look at these images from Instagram visitors for inspiration.
