Lachine Canal, Atlantic Canada Travel Guide

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Explore Montreal's industrial heritage and natural beauty at the Lachine Canal, a scenic urban park offering biking, boating, and historical insights.

The Lachine Canal, a National Historic Site, is a 14.5-kilometer canal running through Montreal, Quebec, from the Old Port to Lake Saint-Louis. Once a vital industrial waterway, it now serves as a scenic urban park with a rich history, offering walking and biking paths, recreational boating, and a glimpse into Montreal's past.

A brief summary to Lachine Canal

Montreal, Quebec, CA

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Lachine Canal.

Bike or stroll along the Lachine Canal path, a scenic urban route connecting the Old Port and Lake Saint-Louis.
Enjoy recreational activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding on the canal.
Visit the Atwater Market near the canal to sample local produce and treats.
Explore the industrial vestiges and historical sites along the canal to learn about Montreal's past.

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Explore Lachine Canal on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Lachine Canal, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

The Lachine Canal is accessible via several bus routes and metro stations. For example, the Charlevoix metro station is a short walk from the canal's bike path. Several bus routes, such as the 78, 57, 61, 107, and 195, also serve different areas along the canal. A single fare for public transport in Montreal is around CA$3.50.
Walking

The Lachine Canal path is easily accessible on foot from many points in Montreal. From the Old Port, follow the waterfront west. From neighborhoods like Griffintown and Saint-Henri, simply walk towards the canal. The path is well-marked and provides a scenic route. There are no costs associated with walking along the canal.
Parking

Parking is available near the Lachine Canal, both paid and free. Paid parking lots can be found along Boulevard Saint-Joseph. Street parking may also be available in some areas. Daily parking permits cost CA$15.75. Be sure to check parking regulations and availability before your visit.

Discover more about Lachine Canal

The Lachine Canal National Historic Site offers a unique blend of history, recreation, and urban scenery in Montreal. The canal's story dates back to the late 17th century when early settlers envisioned a waterway to bypass the Lachine Rapids on the St. Lawrence River. The original purpose was to facilitate the fur trade and power water mills. Construction began in 1821, and the Lachine Canal officially opened in 1825, transforming Montreal into a major port and attracting industries to its banks.For nearly 150 years, the Lachine Canal served as a crucial commercial route, playing a significant role in the industrial development of Montreal and Canada. Its strategic location between the eastern and western portions of the St. Lawrence River led to a concentration of industrial establishments, contributing to the growth of the Port of Montreal and solidifying the city's position as Canada's first metropolis. However, with the opening of the St. Lawrence Seaway in 1959, the Lachine Canal became obsolete for commercial navigation and was closed to shipping in 1970.In 1978, Parks Canada took over part of the canal and began developing it for tourism. Today, the Lachine Canal is a vibrant urban park enjoyed by over a million visitors each year. A bike path runs along the entire canal, offering a scenic route for cyclists and pedestrians. Visitors can also enjoy kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and pleasure boating on the canal's waters. In winter, a section of the canal path is groomed for snowshoeing and other winter activities. The Lachine Canal offers a unique opportunity to explore Montreal's industrial past while enjoying outdoor recreation in an urban setting.