How does water travel from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario?

Water travels from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario through two primary connections:

• The Niagara River: This is the natural drainage outlet for Lake Erie. The river flows northward for approximately 35 miles (56 km), descending about 326 feet (99 meters) in elevation. This path includes the famous Niagara Falls, which features impassable falls and rapids that prevent direct navigation.123
• The Welland Canal: Because the natural Niagara River route is impassable for large vessels, the Welland Canal was constructed to provide a navigable waterway between the two lakes. Extending 44.4 km (27.6 miles) from Port Colborne on Lake Erie to Port Weller on Lake Ontario, the canal uses a series of eight locks to overcome the 100-meter (327-foot) difference in elevation between the lakes. It serves as a vital link in the St. Lawrence Seaway.314