Welcome to the Welland Canal In Ontario
The first impression of a modern lake-faring freighter is of its overwhelming
size. It doesn't seem possible that something of such immense proportions could
even be built, much less be able to dock, load, and sail the lakes. Yet dozens
of lakers and "salties" (sea going ships) ply up and down the Welland Canal every
day, casting enormous shadows as they cruise incongruously past lush orchards
and vineyards. 
Longer than two football fields and weighing more than 30,000 tonnes, how
is it possible to lift these behemoths up and over the cliff face of the Niagara
Escarpment? Not only is this done on a routine basis, but the technology is so
simple that ships have been routinely hoisted up and down the escarpment for over
150 years.
Engineers discovered the trick
long ago - let gravity and water do the work. The locks are filled and emptied
by water flowing downhill from Lake Erie toward Lake Ontario. Many fascinating
hours can be spent watching how the gates are opened and shut to control the water
flow, allowing ponderous monsters from all corners of the world to sail into the
middle of the North American continent.
Originally constructed in 1829 to link Lake Erie with Lake Ontario and offer
ships a safe detour around Niagara Falls, the Welland Canal has a long and colourful
history.
You can explore this great wonder with any number of tours, either by car, by
bicycle, or on foot.
For more information please call:
Lock 3 Viewing Complex and Museum:
1-905-688-5601 ext 1999
or
Toll Free: 1-800-305-5134.
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