Black Rapids Lockstation

Black Rapids Lockstation. The weir and the start of the dam across the Rideau River are visible to the right of the photograph.. © Parks Canada

15,0 km – 15,1 km

Black Rapids Lockstation is located at a bend in the Rideau River, with the lock creating an island from which a spillway dam stretches across the river. This dam establishes a constant water level for navigation of an 8-km slackwater section, reaching to Long Island Lockstation. Two stoplog weirs facilitate adjustment of the water level of the upstream slackwater section.

The building of the original dam caused many problems, and the dam was vulnerable to spring flooding. The present dam was builton the original site in 1950. © Parks Canada

The lock was originally manually operated, but was electrified in 1969. © Parks Canada

Black Rapids Lockstation to Long Island Lockstation

15,1 km – 23,3 km

This 8,2-km slackwater section was created by the spillway dam at Black Rapids. In this slackwater section, the canal is bordered by wetlands, including the Chapman Mills Conservation Area.

The spillway dam at Black Rapids created a broad slackwater section of the Rideau River stretching from Black Rapids to Long Island. © Parks Canada

Looking north from Long Island Lockstation toward Black Rapids. Wooded shores and wetlands characterize this slackwater section. © Parks Canada