Ottawa: Rideau Canal

Rideau Canal in winter.

Rideau Canal was named the UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007.

Rideau Canal, a 202km of waterways stretching from Rideau and Cataraqui rivers in Ottawa to Kingston Harbour on Lake Ontario. It was built mainly for military purpose when the Great Britain and United States was fighting for control over the region. It was the first canals designed to accomodate steam-powered ships. With most of the structures remaining intact from the days of its construction in early 19th century, it is one of the best preserved canals in North America and is still operational today.