Learn how a lock works in this short video with Jeremy Cords, Director of Operations.
Get a first person tour of the DePere lock with our resident historian and lock tender Scott Thompson.
Lock Tender Pat Spaay grew up in the shadow of the Appleton Locks. Listen to his great stories.
THE ONLY FULLY RESTORED, HAND OPERATED LOCK SYSTEM IN THE NATION!
We have preserved the heritage of one of the nation’s most unique transportation systems—the Fox River lock system. Of the 17 locks, 16 have been restored to full working order and are a recreational, historic, and economic asset to northeast Wisconsin. Today’s visitors can see living history in action and use the lock system to access the beautiful Fox River. This website will keep you updated on locks operations hours and information you need to enjoy the only fully restored, hand-operated lock system in the United States!
IMPORTANT: LOCK FEES WILL NO LONGER BE ACCEPTED WITH CASH. Boaters must purchase lock passes online at this link.
PLEASE NOTE: ALL 4 APPLETON LOCKS WILL BE TEMPORARILY CLOSED FOR REPAIR EXPECTED TO OPEN WEEK OF JULY 4th. LITTLE CHUTE & COMBINED LOCKS ARE CLOSED FOR REPAIRS AS OF 6.18.22
To download information on the lock system, save these documents:
Fox Locks brochure
Lock System map
LATEST NEWS
UPDATE: Appleton locks closure, Little Chute repairs
2022-06-15
Attention boaters–all four Appleton locks are closed to boat traffic as of 6.12.22. Repairs are needed to lock 3 to replace rotted boards on the
IMPORTANT UPDATES FOR 2022 SEASON
2022-04-22
This year, buy your locks pass online! But before you do, please read this brief update.
The LOCKS
THE 17-LOCK SYSTEM ON THE UPPER FOX RIVER