Photo by Thomas Lefebvre on Unsplash

 

 

This feature is Part 6 of 6 of our “Escape the City” series, presented with SAIL – your outdoor equipment store.

Part 1: Discover the Best Places to Go Camping This Summer Near Ottawa

Part 2: Fishing in Ottawa

Part 3: 5 Hikes With Amazing Views to Go On This Summer

Part 4: 5 Outdoor Adventures to Try This Summer

Part 5: The Best Places to Experience Fall Colours Near Ottawa

 

In case you haven’t heard, fall is a great time of year to take a drive around Ontario.

There are lots of great drives in the Ontario area, and the Rideau Canal Heritage Route is truly a driver’s paradise this time of year. Driving the winding roads while you take in the fall foliage is a truly spectacular experience.

If you’re from the Ottawa area, the Rideau Canal should be no stranger to you. But have you ever driven its entire length?

The Rideau Canal is a chain of beautiful lakes, rivers and canals winding 202 km from Ottawa all the way to the head of Lake Ontario in Kingston. The drive will take you about 5 hours, depending how many stops you make along the way. If you’re anything like this reporter from the Ottawa Citizen, you may want to make it a weekend affair to take in all the different sights the drive has to offer!

One of the highlights along the Rideau Canal are the lock stations. There are over 40 of them to see – and they still operate the same way they did when they were built back in 1832

 

 

If taking in scenery is your thing, you’ll enjoy making stops along the way to enjoy the view. We recommend packing a lunch to eat beside the waterway!

 

 

You’ll also pass through a lot of quaint villages on your trip, like Merrickville. It’s known for its boutiques, which have one-of-a-kind items from local artisans, antiques, specialty foods, and locally made products.

 

 

Once you reach Kingston, don’t miss Fort Henry. It offers a lovely view of Lake Ontario and the City of Kingston.

 

 

The Rideau Canal Heritage Route is a great road trip any time of year, but especially during the fall. Don’t wait too long or you’ll miss the spectacular colours!

Wherever your adventure takes you, make sure you’re equipped with the right gear. Visit your local SAIL store for all your outdoor needs.

Filed under: EscapetheCity