Hog’s Back Park was developed in the 1950s, and it occupies an area of over 20.8 hectares. During the construction of the Rideau Canal (1826–1832), one of the most challenging dam-building projects took place at Hog’s Back. This urban nature park in Ottawa also offers historical displays, as well as a renovated heritage pavilion. The Rideau Canal opened in 1832 connects Ottawa to the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River running 202 kilometers. There are many locks all manually operated along the route. The canal is both a Canadian National Historic Site and a Unesco World Heritage Site. It is open every year for recreational boating.