Paris, Brantford and Area
The Grand River between Cambridge and Brantford is ideal for paddling, offering white water rapids in the spring and leisurely drifting later in the summer. Paris and Brantford are also blessed with well-maintained multi-use trails that follow the river.
Paris
Visit the historic town of Paris, named for its gypsum mining, which was used to produce plaster of Paris, rather than for the city in France.
Dine at edit. in the historic Arlington Hotel; or on a restaurant balcony overlooking the river, while you watch paddlers and rafters glide down the river below.
If you are visiting on the Labour Day Weekend, come to the Paris Fall Fair.
Rafting on the Grand River in Paris
Brantford
The City of Brantford is known for fantastic paddling and numerous trails on both sides of the Grand River. From Brantford, there are trails to Port Dover and Hamilton, connecting with the Waterfront Trail. The city also has a vibrant arts and culture scene. It is perhaps most famous for being the hometown of hockey great Wayne Gretzky, who has his own tribute area at the Brantford and Area Sports Hall of Recognition. Group of Seven artist, Lawren Harris, was born here.
Visit His Majesty’s Royal Chapel of the Mohawks, the oldest existing church in Ontario, built in 1785 by Mohawk Chief Joseph Brant, after whom Brantford is named.
Mohawk Chapel, Brantford
Between Cambridge and Brantford, the Grand River offers spectacular paddling, from exciting white water adventures in spring to sedate family outings in the late summer and fall. Paddle the Brantford Oxbow—and walk back to your vehicle, only a kilometer from the end of the Oxbow.
Rent a canoe, kayak or raft in Paris or sign up for a guided trip on the river.
Take a break in the historic centre of Paris, and visit the restored Wincey Woolen Mills. Have lunch at one of many restaurants on the main street.
The Grand River: A Canadian Heritage River
Cyclists can enjoy riding off-road on the Cambridge to Paris Rail Trail, from the south end of Cambridge, alongside the river into the picturesque town of Paris. From there, the SC Johnson Rail Trail follows the river into Brantford.
Download our guidebooks to Adventures in Paris, Brantford and Area and Arts, Culture and Heritage in Paris, Brantford and Area to find out more about Activities in the area
