Go to Carillon and take a dam tour!
After being cancelled in 2020 due to COVID-19 concerns, Hydro-Québec is offering free, guided tours of the Carillon hydroelectric dam again this summer.
Tours are available until August 23 and must be reserved ahead of time. All tours begin from the Carillon side of the dam near the canal lock.
The Carillon Dam was built in the early 1960s and spans the Ottawa River between Carillon in St-André-d’Argenteuil and Pointe-Fortune. Hydro-Québec has a special easement on the land at the Ontario side.
The construction of the dam changed the region forever, leading to the resettlement of many residents, including the Chenail area of Hawkesbury. The flooded area above the dam is now a popular place for boating and camping.
The Carillon station produces 753 million watts of electricity, enough to supply 150,000 homes.
To reserve a dam tour, go to https://www.hydroquebec.com/visitez/laurentides/carillon.html .
