The Welland Canal was conceived as a shipping link between Lake Ontario and Lake Erie in order to circumnavigate Niagara Falls. It has made a major contribution to the historical development of St. Catharines and the upper Great Lakes. Thus, the Welland Canals Parkway Trail represents a link to both the city’s industrial heritage and recreational future. This multi-use trail provides an uninterrupted 9.0 kilometre walking, biking and in-line skating path. It makes its way from the Flight Locks in south St. Catharines, north to the St. Catharines Museum and Lacrosse Hall of Fame Museum at the Welland Canals Centre at Lock 3. (A ship viewing platform, parking, washroom facilities, tourist information, gift shop and refreshments are available within the complex). The trail then travels along the water’s edge, under Queenston Street and on to Lock 2. At this point, the trail crosses Carlton Street and continues into north St. Catharines; terminating at Lock 1 with links to Malcolmson Park and the Lake Ontario Waterfront Trail.