The Sault Ste. Marie Canal, built in 1895, was the world’s longest lock, the first to operate using electricity and the last link in an all-Canadian navigational chain from the Atlantic Ocean to Lake Superior. Today, the Canal is a great spot for boat-watching, picnics and a variety of other activities. Let a Parks Canada interpreter introduce you to the canal’s fascinating history, rent a Fat Bike, or join us for tea at the Superintendent’s Residence.
Featured things to do
New Visitor Centre
The visitor Centre and self-guided exhibit is located in the historic Stores Building.
Tour with an expert
Explore the extensive grounds and historic structures of the Sault Ste. Marie Canal.
Locking through
Experience the power of water as you and your boat rise gently from Lake Huron to Lake Superior.
Most requested
Visiting Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site
Activities and experiences
Visitor Centre, Birdwatching, Heritage teas, Cycling, Hiking, Locking through the canal.
Plan your visit
How to get here, local guides and outfitters, local attractions, accessibility, facilities and services, meeting and event rentals.
Fees
Entry and service fees.
About Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site
Culture and history
Indigenous connections, history, architecture, and engineering.
Nature and science
Animals, plants, and the environment.
Safety and guidelines
How to lock through, dogs on leash, keeping wildlife wild.
Stewardship and management
Partners, permits, plans, newletters and policies.
Contact us
Main Office: 705-941-6262
Visitor Centre: 705-941-6205
Email: infolhncssm-ssmcnhsinfo@pc.gc.ca
Hours of operation
Site access: Complete schedule
Lock navigation season: May 15 – October 15
Visitor Centre: June – October
More places to discover with Parks Canada
Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area
Home to more than 70 fish species and 50 shipwrecks, Lake Superior is one of the world’s largest protected freshwater areas and offers outdoor activities ranging from fishing and swimming to snowshoeing and surfing.
Fort St. Joseph National Historic Site
Visit Fort St. Joseph National Historic Site, 92 km south east of Sault Ste. Marie on the southern tip of St. Joseph Island, to learn about the once-vital British stronghold on Upper Canada’s western front.
Pukaskwa National Park
This is Ontario’s only wilderness national park, defined by pink-and-slate granite shores, Great Lake temperaments and near-endless stretches of spruce, fir, pine and hardwoods. Biodiverse coastal regions—where wetland, lake and forest meet—are home to iconic Canadian species like bald eagles, moose and bears.
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