Paddle the Upper Grand River
It is possible for expert paddlers to paddle the Grand River from below the Shand Dam at the Belwood Lake Conservation Area to just above the Bissell Dam in Elora.
Similarly, only expert whitewater paddlers should attempt to paddle the Elora Gorge. A better option to experience the Elora Gorge is to take a tubing trip down the rapids. Equipment can be rented from the GRCA. Trips can only be booked on line in advance from the Grand River Conservation Authority.
The Grand River can be safely paddled from just below the Elora Gorge, although water levels are often low. Always consult the GRCA website for up-to-date safety information and river flows.
Grand River Access Points in Wellington County
Paddle from Elora Gorge to West Montrose
3-4 hours paddling (best paddled in early summer when water levels are higher)
The river can be entered at the tubing exit (1) at the low level bridge within the Elora Gorge Conservation Area (day use fee applies). In summer water levels may be low, so be prepared to walk your craft at times.
There is also an excellent access point to the Grand River at Wilson’s Flats (2) near Inverhaugh. This site has ample parking, picnic tables and a porta-potty.
Pull your craft out of the water at the West Montrose Family Campground (3) (small fee for parking vehicle, access to river is free).
Be sure to take the time to walk across the West Montrose Covered Bridge, the only remaining covered bridge in Ontario. Enjoy a picnic beside the Grand River at Letson Park, right next to the bridge.
West Montrose Covered Bridge
