Explore Knox’s Dam in Prince Edward Island: A Hidden Gem!

Just a 35 minute drive from downtown Charlottetown, PEI is home to the hidden gem known as Knox’s Dam in Victoria Cross. If you didn’t know it was here, you’d drive right by!

Located along the Montague River, Knox’s Dam is the perfect spot for nature lovers, is off the beaten path, and it’s free! The sound of rushing water will instantly put you at ease.

It’s one of the very few places you can find a waterfall in PEI!

I was absolutely astounded to come across such a place and even better I had the place to myself! This dam is fascinating and is unlike anything I’ve ever seen before. The architecture is quite unique and I can tell this place is definitely a hidden gem on the island. 

Knox’s Dam history

The location of Knox’s Dam was once farmland, where the owner secured the water rights after realizing the potential for industrial and recreational use. The owner built the first dam in 1901.

Prior to this, a section of the Montague River was dammed for use as a grist mill.

After expansion in 1917, and after the Montague Electric Company acquired the property, Knox’s Dam became the site of the hydroelectric power plant that supplied the Town of Montague during the first half of the 20th century. The plant only supplied electricity for 5.5 days a week, at a cost of just $5 a month to customers – can you imagine?

It’s now renowned for its natural beauty and fishing area. 

The architecture was fascinating and the dam itself was breathtaking. It could very well be the closest thing to a waterfall that you’ll find in Prince Edward Island, and it’s captivating! Flanked by trees on both sides, you’ll be instantly soothed by the sound of water rushing by you.

You can also see the remnants of the former power plant.

I came across a unique structure known as a fish ladder. It was built to allow for the migration of salmon and sea trout and to help regenerate recreational fishing in the area. Watching the water make its way down the fish ladder was mesmerizing. I can imagine on lazy summer days watching the fish make their way through!

Waterfalls in PEI?

Knox’s Dam is one of the few places to find a waterfall in Prince Edward Island – and it’s gorgeous! It’s easily accessible and there’s a bench in the perfect spot for a reflection and to be soothed by the sound of fresh babbling water. The water falling over the dam looked like a smooth curtain – perfectly aligned at the edge of the Montague River.

I’ll have to come back to see what this scenic spot looks like during the fall!

Where to find Knox’s Dam

There’s a parking lot right at the corner of South Montague Rd and Sparrows Rd with a small sign saying Knox’s Dam. There is a a small gravel parking lot next to a driveway for the former Knox’s Dam Bed & Breakfast (please email me if this B&B is still in business, as it looks like a private residence now!).

You can also take the trail known as Keith’s Mill Trail located on the north side of the dam that follows along the Montague River all the way into the charming town of Montague, which is home to cozy cafes and scenic vistas. 

Knox’s Dam is a perfect hidden gem in PEI to enjoy a quiet time away from the city, to enjoy a picnic, to take photos,  or to take in the peaceful scenery. What better place to spend part of your day immersed in this beautiful place?

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