Identification & Site Overview

• Name: Jackson’s Point Marine Railway
• Location: Jackson’s Point, Lake Simcoe, Ontario, Canada
• Coordinates: Approximate; southeastern part of Lake Simcoe near Jackson’s Point.
• Type of Dive: Shore Dive
• Depth: Gradual entry with tracks extending 200 feet into the lake; specific depth not noted but remains accessible to recreational divers.
• Historical Significance: The site features remnants of a marine railway once used to haul large steamships out of Lake Simcoe for maintenance. Built for durability and capacity, the railway is a testament to the region’s maritime engineering and trade history.

Dive Site Features

Entry Point

• Shoreline Access: Entry is available via the modern-day parking lot and boat-launch ramp at Jackson’s Point.
• Ease of Entry: The shoreline provides a gradual entry, making it suitable for divers of varying experience levels.
• Marine Railway Remnants
  • Tracks: Three parallel tracks spaced 24 feet apart extend 200 feet underwater, showcasing the infrastructure used for servicing large vessels.
  • Missing Components: The cart and tackle, along with the landward portion of the railway, have been obscured or removed due to modern development.

Visibility Conditions

• Typical Visibility: 10 to 20 feet, variable due to silt accumulation from Breakwater construction.
• Advisories: Reduced Visibility may occur during or after storms or other significant disturbances.

Diving Tips

Recommended Equipment

• Dive Light: Essential for illuminating tracks and identifying features in silt-heavy conditions.
• Wetsuit: Necessary due to cooler water temperatures, particularly in spring and fall.

Safety Considerations

• Buoyancy Control: Critical to prevent disturbing silt and further reducing Visibility.
• Monitor Conditions: Check with local dive shops or authorities for updates on site accessibility and conditions before diving.

Points of Interest

Underwater Railway Tracks. Historical Significance: A rare opportunity to explore a large marine railway used for Steamship maintenance, highlighting 19th and early 20th-century engineering.

Dive Experience: A unique dive site offering a connection to Lake Simcoe’s industrial past.

Environmental Concerns Silting: Construction of a nearby Breakwater has led to increased silt deposits, threatening the Visibility and condition of the tracks. Conservation: Efforts to preserve the site’s historical integrity are ongoing; divers are encouraged to report changes and support preservation efforts.

Resources & Links

• Google Maps Location: Jackson’s Point, Lake Simcoe
• Local Dive Shops: Contact shops in Sutton or other Lake Simcoe communities for guided dives, equipment rentals, and updates on the site.
• Heritage Organizations: Connect with local historical societies or preservation groups to support conservation efforts.

Conclusion

The Jackson’s Point Marine Railway is a dive into the past, offering a fascinating look at the infrastructure that supported the Great Lakes’ maritime history. While development and silting threaten the site, the remaining underwater tracks provide a compelling experience for divers interested in history and engineering. Visitors are encouraged to dive responsibly, respect the site, and contribute to its preservation to ensure this unique piece of Lake Simcoe’s heritage remains accessible for future generations.

Tags #Shore Diven#Lake Simcoe #Ontario Diving #Historical Dive Site #Freshwater Dive #Marine Railway #Recreational Dive