Hog's Back Falls

About Hog's Back Falls

Hog's Back Falls is a series of artificial waterfalls on the Rideau River, about 10 minutes south of downtown Ottawa. The falls were created in the 1830s during the construction of the Rideau Canal — a dam was built here to divert water from the Rideau River into the canal, and a wastewater weir created the dramatic channel and falls we see today.

The falls drop approximately 18 metres (60 feet) and are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Rideau Canal system. The surrounding 20.8-hectare park is managed by the National Capital Commission.

The Falls and Locks

The falls are the main attraction — a wide cascade of water visible from a pedestrian bridge and viewing areas on both sides. The sound is impressive, particularly in spring when meltwater boosts the flow.

Adjacent to the falls, Locks 11 and 12 are two manually operated locks in flight with a combined lift of 4.4 metres, constructed in 1830. During the navigation season (mid-May to mid-October), you can watch boats pass through the locks.

History

The site was originally known as Three Rock Rapids. Civil engineer John MacTaggart described it in 1827 as a "noted ridge of rocks, called the Hog's Back" because timber raftsmen would get stuck on it. Colonel John By built a dam here during the canal's construction — it collapsed three times, making it one of the greatest engineering challenges of the entire project. When completed in 1831, it raised the water level by 12.5 metres.

The Rideau Canal, including Hog's Back, was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007, recognized as the best-preserved slack water canal in North America.

Winter

The falls are spectacular in winter. Heavy spray coats the surrounding rocks and trees in thick ice, creating dramatic formations that are a top photography spot in Ottawa. The falls run year-round, though park facilities (washrooms, concession, parking) close from December 1 to May.

Facilities

• Hog's Back Grill and Bistro — seasonal concession stand
• Playground and picnic areas with tables
• Renovated heritage pavilion with historical displays
• Washrooms — open May to mid-October
• Free parking
• No swimming — signs are posted

Getting There

• By Car: Located at the intersection of Hog's Back Road and Riverside Drive. Free parking on site
• By Bike: Directly on the Capital Pathway network — ride south along the Rideau Canal pathway from downtown
• On Foot: Walking trails connect to Mooney's Bay Park to the south and Vincent Massey Park to the north