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Lock 20 Ashburnham

4.7
·583 reviews·Peterborough, Canada

Historic canal lock offering passage between major Great Lakes, with scenic views and fascinating boat cruises.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer afternoons

Enjoy the sunshine and lively atmosphere.

CrowdMedium
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Lock 20 Ashburnham - Image 1

Lock 20 Ashburnham

Best Time

Summer afternoons

Enjoy the sunshine and lively atmosphere.

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic canal lock offering passage between major Great Lakes, with scenic views and fascinating boat cruises.

4.7
(583 reviews)

"Fantastic lock cruise with humor and much knowledge of the history of the lock system!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚢 Book Lock Cruise in Advance

Cruises are popular; reserve your spot to avoid disappointment.

🚶‍♀️ Walk to Town

The town is about a 15-minute walk from the lock.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Peterborough Lift Lock Cruise

Peterborough Lift Lock Cruise

Lock 20 Ashburnham

Experience the historic Trent Canal system with knowledgeable captains sharing fascinating history.

Reddit
Witnessing the Locks in Action

Witnessing the Locks in Action

Lock 20 Ashburnham

See the impressive engineering of the canal locks as boats navigate between water levels.

Reddit
Scenic Canal Views

Scenic Canal Views

Lock 20 Ashburnham

Enjoy the tranquil waters and picturesque surroundings of the Trent Canal.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Lock Cruise Ahead

Popular lock cruises fill up fast, especially on nice days. Reserving your spot in advance ensures you don't miss out on this unique experience. Some visitors had to wait for the next available slot without reservations. Reddit

Embrace the Scenic Route

Lock 20 is part of a beautiful canal system. Enjoy the relaxing waters and scenic views, perfect for a leisurely day. The history of the Trent Canal adds a fascinating layer to the experience. Reddit

Best Times

When
Summer afternoons
Why
Enjoy the sunshine and lively atmosphere.
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds for a more relaxed experience.
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🚢 Book Lock Cruise in Advance

Cruises are popular; reserve your spot to avoid disappointment. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walk to Town

The town is about a 15-minute walk from the lock. Reddit

🔒 Secure Your Boat

Keep windows closed if you have uninvited guests! Reddit

📸 Capture the Scenery

Beautiful views make for great photo opportunities. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🚢 Book Lock Cruise in Advance

Cruises are popular; reserve your spot to avoid disappointment. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walk to Town

The town is about a 15-minute walk from the lock. Reddit

🔒 Secure Your Boat

Keep windows closed if you have uninvited guests! Reddit

📸 Capture the Scenery

Beautiful views make for great photo opportunities. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(583 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the fascinating history and engineering of Lock 20, especially when experienced via the lock cruise. The knowledgeable captains and scenic beauty are frequently praised, making it a relaxing and educational outing. Some minor issues include the need to book cruises in advance and occasional wildlife encounters.

"We did the lock cruise and it was fantastic. Jodi was our captain and inserted humor along with much knowledge of the history of the loch system. Definitely reserve ahead as some people that showed up without reservations had to book for the next time slot. There are washrooms on board and a small concession on the boat where you can get a pop, coffee, beer or hard iced tea/whiteclaw along with candy, popcorn and chocolate bars."

Stacy Sicard

"It’s always fun to see these canal locks in action. Peterborough has a few of them and on a nice summer day you can hang out sitting in a chair with a beverage in hand like some people do enjoy the show. 👍😎"

Yodaman Solo

"We went through this lock on the Peterborough Lift Lock Cruise. The history behind the Trent Canal is really fascinating. It's all explained by the boat captain during the 2hr. cruise."

scott wand

What People Like

Fascinating lock history
Engaging cruise captains
Scenic canal views

What People Dislike

Need to book ahead
Occasional wildlife

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Lock 20 is accessible by car, with parking available nearby. It's also a pleasant 15-minute walk from the town center, making it easy to combine with a visit to local breweries or shops. Reddit

Information on specific public transport routes to Lock 20 can vary. It's best to check local transit schedules for Peterborough, as it's a well-known landmark within the city. Reddit

Yes, the canal path offers a scenic route for walking and biking, providing beautiful views along the way. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Access to the lock area itself is generally free. However, if you wish to take a lock cruise, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended as they can sell out. Reddit

The locks operate seasonally, typically from spring to fall. Specific hours can vary, so it's advisable to check the official Trent-Severn Waterway schedule for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

Cruise prices can vary depending on the duration and operator. It's best to check directly with the cruise company for current pricing and to book your tickets. Reddit

Absolutely! Watching the locks in action is a popular activity, and you can observe the process from the surrounding areas without needing a ticket for a cruise. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can witness the fascinating operation of the canal locks, enjoy the scenic waterfront, and take a historical lock cruise. It's a great spot for relaxation and appreciating the engineering marvel. Reddit+1

Restrooms are available on the lock cruise boats, and public facilities may be accessible in the nearby park areas. Reddit

While there's a small concession on the cruise boats, you can typically bring your own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy by the locks. Reddit

The pathways around the locks are generally accessible, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific accessibility information if needed. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are dining options in the nearby town, including breweries and grocery stores. The lock cruise boats also offer a small concession. Reddit

The concession on the boat offers a selection of beverages, including coffee, beer, and hard iced teas. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The areas overlooking the locks as boats pass through, the scenic canal path, and the historic lock structures themselves offer excellent photographic opportunities. Reddit

The calm waters and scenic surroundings can make for beautiful sunset shots, especially reflecting off the water. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Lock 20 offers a unique and engaging experience for families. Watching the boats move through the locks is often a highlight for children, providing a visual lesson in physics and engineering. The lock cruise is also a great option, offering a comfortable way to explore the waterway with onboard amenities like washrooms and snacks. Reddit Consider packing some snacks and drinks to keep little ones happy during the cruise or while watching the locks operate from the shore. The scenic beauty also provides a lovely backdrop for family photos. Reddit

⚓ Boaters and Water Enthusiasts

For boaters, Lock 20 is a functional part of the Trent-Severn Waterway. Navigating through the lock is a standard procedure for those traveling the system. If you're not boating, simply observing the boats as they are raised or lowered can be fascinating. The calm waters of the canal are also ideal for kayaking or paddleboarding, offering a peaceful way to experience the area. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ History Buffs and Sightseers

Lock 20 Ashburnham is a must-visit for anyone interested in Canadian industrial history and engineering marvels. The Trent-Severn Waterway itself is a significant historical landmark. Taking the lock cruise provides in-depth historical context, with captains sharing stories of the canal's construction and its impact on the region. Reddit The scenic beauty of the canal also appeals to general sightseers looking for picturesque views and a relaxing atmosphere. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Trent-Severn Waterway: A Historic Marvel

Lock 20 Ashburnham is a vital part of the Trent-Severn Waterway, a historic 386-kilometer (240-mile) canal system connecting Lake Huron and Lake Ontario. This engineering feat, completed in 1920, features 45 locks, including the famous Peterborough Lift Lock. The waterway was designed to facilitate navigation and trade, transforming the region's economy and landscape. Understanding its history adds a rich layer to your visit, as captains on the lock cruises often share fascinating anecdotes and historical facts. Reddit+1

Visiting Lock 20 allows you to witness a working section of this incredible system. The process of a boat entering a lock, the water level changing, and the boat then emerging at a new elevation is a captivating spectacle. It’s a tangible connection to Canada’s industrial past and a testament to the ingenuity of its builders. The surrounding scenery, with its calm waters and lush banks, further enhances the experience, making it a peaceful yet historically significant destination. Reddit

Experiencing the Lock Cruise

The Peterborough Lift Lock Cruise is a highly recommended activity for visitors to Lock 20. These narrated tours offer an immersive way to learn about the history and operation of the Trent Canal system. Captains like Jodi are often praised for their engaging storytelling, blending humor with historical insights, making the 2-hour journey both educational and entertaining. Reddit

Onboard, you'll find amenities such as washrooms and a small concession selling refreshments like coffee, beer, and snacks. It’s a comfortable way to enjoy the scenic route and gain a deeper appreciation for the waterway. Booking in advance is crucial, as these popular cruises can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Reddit This experience provides a unique perspective on the locks and the surrounding natural beauty, making it a highlight for many visitors. Reddit

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