Hidden Gem – Smiths Falls, Ontario

This week’s hidden gem was taken by Carl M. on the Rideau Canal, just outside Smiths Falls, Ontario.

Smiths Falls offers a slice of rural life and local history. Originally named Smyth’s Falls in 1784 after Thomas Smyth,  a United Empire Loyalist who received a 400 acre land grant in the area, the village became a traveler’s hub as the Rideau Canal opened in 1832. Today, running over 202km (126mi) it is Ontario’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site, and considered an engineering masterpiece. Most of the locks are still operated by hand by Parks Canada staff.The chain of lakes and rivers is joined by man made canals and locks, and winds its way through diverse Canadian terrain, including the solid rock of the Canadian Shield.

Today you can still see where one of the Smiths Falls lockmasters would have lived. Only this lockmaster’s house would of had a second storey, which was added late in the 19^th century.  (Parks Canada).

Flickr photo by Ullysses

The Rideau Canal is also a pleasure boater’s paradise incorporating sections of the Rideau River and the Cataraqui River as well as several lakes including the Lower, Upper and Big Rideau lakes. These shots of Smiths Falls show just how close a connection the town has with the water.

Flickr photo by railfan

Flickr photo by vmaxxblue

Flickr photo by railfan

Near other historic towns, like Kingston and Gananoque, Smiths Falls is also only a day trip from Ottawa.

To plan your own Rideau Canal getaway visit us online.

Have you had a Rideau Canal Adventure? Tell us about it!