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How a Lock Operates

 
 
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How the Lock Operates

The following movie shows the basic operation of most of the locks on the NYS Canal System. If you do not see the movie in a few moments download the QuickTime player here.

bulletStep 1 - The boat approaches the lock (going east to west in this case) and the east valve opens to lower the lock chamber by emptying into the downstream canal.
bulletStep 2 - When the lock chamber is at the level of the downstream canal, the east lock gate opens and light turns green to indicate it's safe to enter the lock.
bulletStep 3 - The boat moves into the lock and holds onto the provided lock ropes, ladders, or poles (remember, don't ever tie off to a lock mooring of any kind).
bulletStep 4 - The east valve and east lock gate close.
bulletStep 5 - The west valve opens to flood the lock chamber with water from the upstream canal. This raises the boat to the level of the canal going west.
bulletStep 6 - When the water in the lock chamber reaches the west bound height, the west lock gate opens, and the light turns green to indicate safe passage through the west lock gate into the canal.

Captains Comments: Don't be intimidated by locking through! Once you have gone through one lock you will find it easy. Navigating the locks will soon become an interesting diversion in your journey. See one of our Visual Tours™ to experience a lock through online!

 

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