Jackson’s Point, Lake Simcoe, Ontario, Canada

3 min read

Site Overview #

Location: Jackson’s Point, Lake Simcoe, Ontario, Canada
Coordinates: Approximate coordinates not provided; located in the southeastern part of Lake Simcoe, near Jackson’s Point.

Historical Significance:
Jackson’s Point Marine Railway is a historically significant dive site in Lake Simcoe. A marine railway was used to haul boats and ships out of the water for maintenance or to protect them from winter ice. The railway at Jackson’s Point is notable for its size and capacity, indicating that it was capable of handling large lake steamships. The railway measures 24 feet wide between the outer rails and extends 200 feet, with portions of the track still visible underwater.

Dive Type: Shore Dive
Threat Level: High – The site is currently threatened by ongoing development and environmental changes, including silting from a nearby breakwater.

Dive Site Features #

Entry Point:

Shoreline Access: The site is accessible from the shore at Jackson’s Point, where a parking lot and a boat-launch ramp are now located. The entry point is likely near these structures, where divers can enter the water to access the submerged portion of the marine railway.
Gradual Entry: The shoreline at this location provides a gradual entry into the water, with the remaining visible tracks of the marine railway leading into the lake.

Marine Railway Remnants:

Underwater Tracks: The most prominent feature of this dive site is the surviving portion of the marine railway tracks, which extend 200 feet into the water. These tracks are a key point of interest for divers, offering a glimpse into the engineering and maritime history of Lake Simcoe.
Three Rails: The railway at Jackson’s Point has three rails, suggesting it was designed to handle large steamships. The tracks are spaced 24 feet apart, reflecting the scale of vessels that were once serviced here.
Missing Components: While the underwater tracks are still visible, the cart and tackle that were used to haul boats out of the water are no longer present. Additionally, the portion of the tracks on land has been obscured by modern developments, including a parking lot and a boat-launch ramp.

Visibility #

Conditions:

Visibility: Visibility at Jackson’s Point can vary depending on weather conditions and the level of silting, particularly due to the recent construction of a breakwater nearby. Typically, visibility ranges from 10 to 20 feet, but divers should be prepared for reduced visibility in areas where silt has accumulated.

Additional Tips #

Equipment:

Dive Light: A dive light is recommended to help illuminate the underwater tracks, particularly in areas where visibility may be compromised by silt.
Wetsuit: A wetsuit is advisable due to the cooler water temperatures in Lake Simcoe, especially during the spring and fall months.

Safety:

Buoyancy Control: Maintaining good buoyancy control is essential to avoid disturbing any silt that has settled on or near the tracks, which could further reduce visibility.
Monitor Conditions: Divers should be aware of ongoing development in the area and any changes to the site’s accessibility or condition. Checking with local dive shops or authorities before visiting is recommended.

Points of Interest #

Underwater Railway Tracks:

Historical Engineering: The remaining underwater portion of the marine railway is a unique feature, offering a rare opportunity to explore a piece of Lake Simcoe’s maritime history. The size and structure of the tracks provide insight into the types of vessels that were once serviced at Jackson’s Point.
Conservation Efforts: Due to the historical significance of the site, ongoing efforts to monitor and protect the marine railway are crucial. Divers visiting the site are encouraged to respect the area and contribute to its preservation by minimizing any impact on the tracks and surrounding environment.

Potential Impact of Development:

Silting Concerns: The nearby construction of a breakwater has raised concerns about increased silting, which could further obscure the tracks and degrade the site. Divers should report any significant changes they observe to local preservation groups or authorities.

RESOURCES & LINKS #

Google Maps Location: Jackson’s Point, Lake Simcoe, Ontario, Canada
Local Dive Shops: Contact dive shops in the nearby town of Sutton or the greater Lake Simcoe area for information on guided dives, equipment rentals, and the latest conditions at the site.
Heritage Organizations: Reach out to local historical societies or maritime preservation groups involved in the protection of Lake Simcoe’s heritage sites for more information on conservation efforts.

CONCLUSION #

Jackson’s Point Marine Railway is a unique and historically significant dive site that offers a rare glimpse into the maritime heritage of Lake Simcoe. Despite the threat from ongoing development and environmental changes, the remaining underwater tracks provide an intriguing dive experience for those interested in exploring the remnants of this important infrastructure. Divers are encouraged to respect and protect this threatened site, ensuring that it remains a part of Lake Simcoe’s history for future generations.