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Wannalancit Park & Locks/Canals

Details unconfirmedPreserve · Lowell, MA
Right now

A small city park on Varnum Avenue at the head of Lowell's canal system, next to the Guard Locks, Swamp Locks and Francis Gate structures that route Merrimack River water from Pawtucket Falls into the Pawtucket Canal and the rest of the mill-canal network.

What to expect

Dogs
Leashed dogs permitted; must be under restraint on all city public property outside designated off-leash areas
Hours
Park areas generally open dawn to dusk year-round; hours vary with daylight, lighting, and Board of Parks permits
Managed by
City of Lowell Board of Parks / Recreation Department; adjoining canal structures managed by Lowell National Historical Park (NPS) 978-674-4175 · Website

What's here

On site

Monument
walking path and monument on-site
Path
walking path along canal

Common questions

Can I bring my dog to Wannalancit Park & Locks/Canals?
Leashed dogs permitted; must be under restraint on all city public property outside designated off-leash areas
What rules should I know at Wannalancit Park & Locks/Canals?
Canal current is very swift and much stronger just under the surface than it appears. No boats, canoes, kayaks or other private watercraft allowed in the canals; only NPS tour boats and hydropower-company service boats permitted. Visitors must stay on designated paths and away from fenced areas or…

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BetaSome details here are unconfirmed (restrooms, parking_lots, precise coordinates for Guard Locks/Swamp Locks/Francis Gate access points). Details are sourced from public agency data and can change through the season. Confirm locally before you go. Updated 2026-09-13.