Grand Trail and River Access Points

The Grand River

The Grand River is a Canadian Heritage River. The river was a busy highway for indigenous people and early settlers and was used to power numerous mills in the 19th century. Once trains and cars and electric power were invented the river was largely forgotton. Our goal is to bring people back to the river: to paddle it; to hike and bike along its banks; and to appreciate its natural environment, history and culture. Explore the river and its tributaries. Watch for the birds and animals that call the river home. Visit some of the numerous heritage and cultural sites.

Historic Bowstring Bridge over the Grand River, Kitchener

The Grand Trail cycling route follows the Grand River from its Headwaters in Dundalk to Lake Erie. The trail uses off-road multi-use trails and quiet roads where possible. Some connecting sections are on busy roads and highways.

The trail is colour coded on the map so that cyclists can choose to cycle on sections that match their level of comfort.

Paddler in Early Morning Mist on Grand River

Misty Morning on Grand River (courtesy of Six Nations)

The Grand River Water Trail

Although it is possible to paddle from Riverview to Belwood Lake in high water conditions, the river is generally considered to be navigable from Belwood Lake to Lake Erie. When water levels are low in late summer, paddling is best from Waterloo Region and further downstream.

There are numerous outfitters and guides in the watershed who rent watercraft and offer guided trips for beginners.

Cycling Above Highway 401 (Courtesy of Ontario by Bike)

The map shows the cycling route and all the places you can put a canoe or kayak in the water. (Click on the square at the top right of the map to go to full screen.)

Consult the Grand River Conservation Authority for water safety information. The red circles with crosses show the locations where you must portage at dams.

Purchase “Paddling the Grand River” by the GRCA with Jamie Kent for detailed instructions on paddling the Grand River (available in local bookstores and on-line). It is also possible to paddle two of the river’s tributaries: the Nith and Speed Rivers. Unless you are an experienced paddler, this is best done with a guide.

For information on the five sections of the Grand Trail:

Legend