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Canada’s National River Conservation Program

From coast to coast to coast, Canadian Heritage Rivers offer visitors a chance to experience great waterways, learn about their rich history, and share in their stewardship. The Canadian Heritage Rivers System helps recognize and conserve these outstanding rivers that are an enduring part of our national heritage and identity.

 

Map of Canada with red lines indicating nominated rivers and blue lines indicating designated rivers


The Canadian Heritage River System acknowledges that Canadian Heritage Rivers flow through the traditional territories of First Nation, Inuit, and Métis peoples from coast to coast to coast. To learn more about the Indigenous territories in Canada, view the comprehensive map here.

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Water flowing over the stone arch overflow dam at Edmonds Lock on the Rideau Waterway.

Story Maps

Explore the natural, cultural and recreational heritage of our rivers through interactive maps. With just a click, you can learn more about the stories of the past and present!

See all Story Maps

An aerial photo of the Three Cascades, a series of waterfalls on the Kazan River.

What are Heritage Rivers?

Canada’s 40 Heritage Rivers are recognized nationally for their outstanding natural, cultural, and recreational heritage.

More on Heritage Rivers