Kirkfield lift lock closed for foreseeable future

Parks Canada has announced that due to ongoing mechanical issues, the Kirkfield Lift Lock will remain closed to all boater and land-based visitors for the foreseeable future.

Parks Canada advises boaters planning to transit the Kirkfield Lift Lock to revise their plans to avoid this location.

Boaters intending to transit the entire Trent-Severn Waterway are advised that this will not be possible at this time and that they should alter their travel plans accordingly.

Boaters requiring special assistance can email .

The guard gate located on the Balsam Lake side of the Kirkfield Lift Lock is currently in the closed position. Parks Canada has asked the public to please exercise caution while travelling in this area.

About the Kirkfield Lift Lock

The historic Kirkfield Lift Lock is located a few kilometres north of the Village of Kirkfield. The Kirkfield Lift Lock is the second highest hydraulic lift lock in the world with a lift of 15 metres (49 ft). The lock is situated at the highest point along the Trent-Severn Waterway at 256.20 meters (840.5 ft) above sea level. Most boaters prefer to stay on the lower reach to avoid the stairs and gain easy access to the washrooms.