Check another one off our bucket list. Tim and I read about the Big Chute Marine Railway at least 15 years ago when we owned our Marine Trader and first dreamed about doing the Great Loop. I remember feeling awed by the engineering of a cradle that picks boats up and carries them across a road, then gently sets them back in the water. Really! How cool and yet scary at the same time. I always thought- someday, maybe someday. Well, this was our day!
Tim and I opted to spend the night before the chute at Severn Falls. It’s a very small town dock, but it did have power and with storms in the forecast we thought it would be good to be able to close the boat up and run the AC. Anxious to get going, we left the dock at 8 am and arrived at the Big Chute just before the lock opened at 9. Already waiting were a few other looper boats and a sailboat.
We were able to watch as Cat and Dogs was loaded up and taken across. 
I decided to follow the track to the other side and got some pics of the railway before it was or turn to go.
The double track system keeps the boat level as she rises and lowers.
Oh my gosh, we’re next in.
They get us all lined up with the straps.
So cool. I’d do it again if we weren’t in such a hurry to get into Georgian Bay. Here’s some pics of the short ride from the chute to our last lock.
What?! Bears!
Our last lock of the Trent Severn Waterway. Yeah! We can stow away our fenders.
We in Midland now to take care of some chores. One of which is to get the boat hauled. I’ll save that news for the next blog.
Very cool
Who knew such a thing as the Big Chute exsisted (well, you did) – it must have been a thrilling ride!
XXOOO, Elayne
Another “Wow!” How cool.
Way cool … both the Big Chute, and the bears!