I love exploring the wealth of wonders that there is to discover along the Grand River! Throughout the Grand River watershed are a long list of trails that are great for hiking and biking. Then there’s the river itself that is a one of the top places to paddle in Ontario! Plus, on top of the Grand River trails there is the incredible communities that dot the watershed.
So, I’ve created a guide to help you explore the Grand River that includes a list of the trails, areas of interest along them, and where to explore nearby!
Start planning your next Grand Adventure today!
Where is the Grand River?
The Grand River runs from Dundalk to Port Maitland, on Lake Erie. It stretches roughly 310 kilometres and is the largest river found in southern Ontario, Canada. Plus, the Grand River is designated a Canadian Heritage River!
With a staggering size of 6,800 square kilometres, the river’s watershed is approximately the same size as Prince Edward Island. There are many other rivers within the Grand River watershed! Other rivers include the Conestogo River, Eramosa River, Nith River, and Speed River.
Plus, many cities and charming small towns dot the Grand River and its watershed, like Kitchener, Cambridge, Brantford, Paris and Elora.
As well as places to explore along the Grand River, there are a number of conservation areas too, which are managed by the Grand River Conservation Authority. A few must visit parks managed by the Grand River Conservation Authority are the Elora Gorge Conservation Area, Luther Marsh Wildlife Management Area, and Rockwood Conservation Area.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. By clicking through and purchasing through these links I may make a small commission to help run this blog, at no extra cost to you. Thx!
About the Grand Watershed Trails Network
The Grand Watershed Trails Network is a not for profit organization that is dedicated to bringing awareness to the incredible area of Ontario that falls within the Grand River watershed. With the watershed running from Dundalk to Port Maitland their area of focus is large. Their main goal is to bring awareness to the network of trails within the Grand River watershed and bring together people, community, and nature.
The GWTN wants to improve existing trail signage, and access points to help people navigate both on and off the river. In addition, the Grand Watershed Trails Networks is committed to ensuring that the trails are inclusive. Making sure that all ages and abilities can enjoy the trails successfully and in all seasons.
I had the opportunity to participate in the 2022 Grand Watershed Trails Network digital scavenger hunt this fall! The event shared a strong message of how you can hike, bike, paddle, taste, and stay along the Grand River. It enhanced the multi-sensory and unique recreational experiences that visitors can find along the Grand River and within the watershed communities.
If you’d like to learn more about the Grand Watershed Trails Network and how you can explore, visit their website here.
9 Grand River Trails to Hike, Bike and Paddle
The Grand River trails network is a virtual playground for outdoor enthusiasts! You can hike and bike the trails! Plus, you can also canoe or kayak along the river from Elora to Port Maitland! Many of the trails connect to other major Ontario trails, such as the Trans Canada Trail and the Waterfront Trail. In this guide you’ll discover all the information you’ll need to help you plan your next Grand Adventure!
Fun Fact: There are around 1 million people who live within the Grand River watershed. So, chances are if you’re looking for Grand River trails near me, many will find one!
The Grand River Trail
One of the grandest trails along the Grand River is the water trail itself! The Grand River flows from its source in Dundalk, 300 km to Port Maitland, where its mouth enters Lake Erie. It’s a favourite river of paddlers!
While most sections of the Grand River can be paddled between early spring to late fall, the upper section is best in the spring.
Along the river you can encounter a wealth of wildlife, from bald eagles to beaver.
Many boast that the best section of the Grand River to paddle is between Cambridge and Paris. This 18 km portion starts in southern Cambridge and takes between 2 to 3 hours to get to Paris. The Grand River trail between Cambridge and Paris is the fastest section. However, there are a few stretches producing whitewater in the Elora Gorge, so be prepared.
If you are a novice or looking to rent a canoe or kayak to get out on the Grand there are numerous outfitters that can help out.
A few companies that offer guided paddles or rentals are Grand River Rafting Company (in Paris and Brantford), Canoeing the Grand in Kitchener, and Grand River Outfitting in Fergus.
Grand River Access Points: Riverbluffs Park in Cambridge, Penmans Dam in Paris, Gilkison’s Flats in Brantford. Check out their website here for more access points.
Tip: If you don’t have a device to get out on the river, Grand Experiences offers guided tours as well as canoe and kayak rentals. Check them out here!
Cambridge to Paris Rail Trail
The Cambridge to Paris Rail Trail is 18 kilometres long and one of the most popular Grand River trails! The trail follows the old rail line and also makes up a section of the Trans Canada Trail and Grand Valley Trail.
This is a favourite path for cyclists as the trail is level and made up of fine gravel. However, its also great for hikers, families, and offers various access points.
I love this trail for many reasons! The trail runs along a scenic area of the river and offers numerous lookouts of the Grand! Plus, it passes through part of Ontario’s Carolinian Forest, which is an ideal habitat for many bird species. This region of forest is actually home to around 25% of Canada’s species at risk, including a few amazing warbler species.
Trail Access Points: Cambridge to Paris Rail Trail trailhead at 210 Water Street, end of Forbes Street in Glen Morris, and off of Willow Street (just south of Green Lane and north of Paris.)
Trail also Links to: SC Johnson Trail in Paris and City of Cambridge trails.
Places to Eat nearby: In Cambridge head to Melville Café for their famous pizza and views of the river or the Grand Café for tasty baked goods. In Glen Morris pop into Riverbend Grillhouse for a burger and live music. In Paris visit 2 Rivers restaurant for their delicious veggie wrap and river patio and grab an awesome dessert from Cheesecake on the Go.
Attractions along the Trail: Stop at Murray Overlook (located just north of Paris) for awesome views of the Grand River and the German’s Woolen Mill ruins, which is an old water mill located north of Glen Morris.
SC Johnston Trail
Hike or ride above Paris on the SC Johnson Trail! This 14-kilometre trail runs between Paris and Brantford. The SC Johnson Trail travels along the abandoned railway bed of the Northern Railway. So, there’s no surprise that it’s also a portion of the Trans Canada Trail!
Thanks to the gracious donation by SC Johnson and Son Ltd to the Grand River Conservation Foundation, this trail is another favourite among the Grand River trails!
As many of the other trails, this is ideal for both hiking and biking. The trail is mostly gravel or paved but it does have some steep sections. However, you’ll be rewarded with incredible views of the Grand River and the charming small town of Paris!
One thing to note is that this trail does cross a couple of roads. So, be aware of traffic.
Trail Access Points: There’s a parking lot near the end of Portland Street in Paris as well as at the end of Powerline Road. In Brantford there’s limited parking at Wilkes Dam.
Trail also Links to: Cambridge to Paris Rail Trail and City of Brantford trails. You can also access the Brantford to Hamilton Rail Trail via the City of Brantford trails, making a nonstop trail from Cambridge to Hamilton.
Places to eat nearby: Fuel up in Paris at Wincey Mills! Grab a coffee and snack at Detour or enjoy a refreshing fresh juice and yogurt bowl from Q’Vida Juice Bar. In Brantford visit Nine North for a great mix of Vietnamese and Thai!
Attractions along the trail: Through Paris you’ll find awesome views of the river and town! In Brantford the trail passes by Glenhyrst Gardens and Art Gallery and Wilkes Dam. Plus, check out The Plywood Patch Bridge that is filled with locally inspired murals!
Grand Valley Trail
Spanning nearly the entire Grand River is the Grand Valley Trail. This footpath runs almost the full length of the Grand River watershed from Alton to Rock Point Provincial Park, near Dunnville, for 275 kilometres.
The Grand Valley Trail is made up of four sections. The first is the 40 km Pinnacle section, which goes between the village of Belwood to Middlebrook Place.
The second section is known as Black Walnut and runs 75 km, from Middlebrook Place to Brant-Waterloo Road.
Covering nearly 70 km is the third portion, the Carolinian Crest section travels between Brant-Waterloo Road to Haldimand-Onondaga Towline Road at LaFortune Conservation Area. Much of this portion follows the SC Johnson Trail.
For the last portion, the Towpath, this section runs approximately 65 km between LaFortune Conservation Area to Port Maitland.
Easy segment of the Grand Valley Trail has something unique to offer visitors. The trail also brings you through various landscapes as well as across bridges, stiles, boardwalks, and more! However, one thing to keep in mind is that many areas along the trail that are close to the river seasonally flood. So, make sure to be mindful of your footwear and the weather.
Trail also Links to: The trail connects to the Bruce Trail via a side trail, along with the Avon Trail, and many other Grand River trails.
Attractions along the trail: Elora Gorge Conservation Area, St. Andrews Mill Cascade in Fergus, Bell Homestead National Historic Site in Brantford, and Ruthven Park National Historic Site in Cayuga.
Gilkison Trail
If you’re looking for a nice trail that’s shorter then head to Glikison Flats in Brantford. This scenic park is located southwest of downtown Brantford. You have the option of two different loops. The Gilkison Trail Loop is 3 km and takes approximately 30 minutes.
Gilkison Trail loops through the park, which run along the Grand River. It starts roughly midway through the Gilkison Flats and ends at Mount Pleasant Street. Along the trail you’ll find sweeping views of the river, towering trees, and stretches of forest. There are also benches along the trail, which are perfect for sitting and taking in the Grand! For a longer loop add the Fordview Trail. This creates a 5.5 km loop.
The Gilkison Flats trails are ideal for walking and cycling. It’s also a great area for bird enthusiasts! Many migratory birds make their way through the park in the spring and fall.
For those visiting or parking in downtown Brantford, you can take SC Johnson Trail to The Plywood Patch Bridge, and cross the Grand River to meet up with the Fordview Trail.
Trail Access Points: Parking can be found at the Lions Park Area, which is across the street from the Gilkison Trail. There is also parking available along Gilkison Street
Hamilton to Brantford Rail Trail
Another scenic trail in the Grand River watershed is the Hamilton to Brantford Rail Trail! The trail is 32 kilometres and travels from Brantford’s east end to the western side of Hamilton.
Terrain along the trail varies from gravel to paved and crosses bridges too. As with all rail trails in Ontario, it follows a section of old railway. This section is the old Toronto, Hamilton and Buffalo Railway.
The most stunning section of the trail takes you through Dundas Valley for roughly 18 kilometres. If you’re starting in Hamilton, this area includes a steady incline. Be prepared to work for those views! But don’t worry, it levels out afterward. The trail is also popular for cross country skiing!
Fun Fact: The Hamilton – Brantford Rail Trail is the first fully developed, entirely off-road interurban trail in Canada!
Trail Access Points: There’s a large parking lot at the Mohawk Chapel as well as at the Brantford Jaycees Trailhead off of Greenwich Street. In Dundas you can park in the Dundas Valley Conservation Area. However, this park is managed by the Hamilton Conservation Authority and a parking fee may apply.
Trail also Links to: SC Johnson Trail and numerous other City of Brantford trails. In the Hamilton, the trail links to the Bruce Trail at Dundas Valley Conservation Area as well as the City of Hamilton bikeway and trail network.
Places to eat nearby: Grab a slice of pizza and a cannoli at Maria’s Pizza West in Brantford. In Hamilton order a soup at The Burnt Tongue, or pop into Paisley Coffeehouse & Eatery for treats and light fare.
Attractions along the trail: In Brantford the trail travels by the Mohawk Chapel and Crossroads Antique Market. In Dundas the trail is close to many great sights like The Hermitage, Griffin House National Historic Site, and Sulphur Springs train station. Plus, nearby there’s an awesome lookout called Groundhog Hill.
Elora Cataract Trailway
Connecting the Grand and the Credit watersheds is the Elora Cataract Trailway. This picturesque trail is 47 km and follows an abandoned rail line. Constructed in 1879, the old Credit Valley Railway was acquired by the Grand River and Credit Valley Conservation Authorities in 1993.
The Trailway meanders from Elora to Cataract and passes through three great parks. It runs through the Elora Gorge and Belwood Lake Conservation Areas as well as Forks of the Credit Provincial Park. In Belwood Lake it even crosses over the historic Shand Dam. Completed in 1942, the dam was the first dam on the Grand River. Plus, it became the first large scale multi-purpose dam in Canada!
The Elora Cataract Trailway follows the Grand River then heads east. It travels through scenic terrain that includes meadows, woodlots, and charming small towns. You can travel on foot, bike, horseback, or snowshoe.
Parking & Trail Access: In Elora there is parking at 66 Patrick Blvd and trail access off Gerrie Road near County Road 18. In Fergus there are various places to park and access in Forfar Park. In Erin, the trail access is just north of Stanley Park on Main Street. You can also park and access the trailway at Belwood Lake Conservation Area and Forks of the Credit Provincial Park, but parking fee applies. Here’s an interactive map for more details.
Trail Links: Part of the Trailway is the Grand Valley Trail and you can access the Bruce Trail from Forks of the Credit.
Places to eat nearby: A great place to fuel up for your hike along the trailway in Elora is The Lost & Found Café! In Erin, grab a solid meal at The Busholme or coffee and light fare at Tin Roof Café. Near Forks of the Credit pop into Higher Ground Café, a favourite of cyclists in the summer!
Attractions along the trail: Shand Dam, Wellington County Museum, and Elora Gorge.
Walter Bean Grand River Trail
Also known as the Walter Bean Trail, this 76 km trail follows the Grand River through Cambridge, Kitchener and Waterloo. The Walter Bean Grand River Trail is named in honour of Walter Bean, a local community leader who inspired the creation of a trail along the river through the region.
From north to south the trail offer numerous highlights including crossing various pedestrian bridges over the river. Plus, it crosses one of the many rare Charitable Research Reserve properties.
The Water Bean Trail is also part of the Grand Valley Trail as well as the Trans Canada Trail. In addition, the trail is great for hiking and cycling in the summer as well as cross country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter.
Trail Access Points: There is parking and trail access at Kuntz Park/Pioneer Tower and Kiwanis Park in Kitchener. Waterloo has a number of access points like RIM Park. In Cambridge you can access at the Walter Bean Blair Trailhead at 1636 Blair Road.
Trail Links: As mentioned, the trail connects to the Grand Valley Trail and the Trans Canada Trail. The Walter Bean Trail ends near the rare Charitable Research Reserve in Cambridge but continues via the Trans Canada Trail to join with the Cambridge to Paris Rail Trail.
Places to eat nearby: Places to eat near the trail in Kitchener are Play a Latte Café or Sari-Sari Filipino Cuisine. On the other end, dine at Cambridge Mill, an upscale restaurant in an old 19th century mill with views of the Grand River!
Attractions along the trail: Pioneer Memorial Tower, Doon Heritage Village, and Clarica Lookout in Kitchener. In Cambridge, rare Charitable Research Reserve.
Kissing Bridge Trail
One of the Grand River trails known for its charming name is the Kissing Bridge Trail. It’s is part of the Goderich to Guelph Rail Trail (G2G Rail Trail), that runs along the former CP Rail line and covers over 127 km.
Composed of 45 km of the G2G Rail Trail, the Kissing Bridge Trail runs between Guelph and Millbank. A small town in Perth County. It takes you through the tranquil countryside, over rivers like the Grand and Conestoga River, as well as wetlands close to Elmira.
It’s no surprise that this rail trail also makes up a portion of the Trans Canada Trail in Ontario. And thanks to its relatively level surface, the trail is great for a variety of uses like hiking, cycling and cross country skiing.
The big draw to this trail is in the name! You can take a short 2 km detour that brings you to the West Montrose Kissing Bridge! Built in the early 1880s, the bridge is the only remaining covered bridge in Ontario. Plus, its one of the oldest in Canada!
Trail Access Points: The trailhead in Millbank is located on John Street. In Elmira there’s a parking lot and access at 67 Snyder Avenue North.
Places to eat nearby: Grab a homestyle meal at Anna Mae’s in Millbank. In Guelph, pop into the Starberry café or Lucky Belly.
Attractions along the trail: West Montrose Kissing Bridge
Best Places to Visit Along the Grand River Trails in Ontario
While hiking and biking the Grand River trails I encourage you to explore the incredible places along the Grand River. Visitors will find charming small towns and big cities. Below you’ll discover a few great places to visit along the Grand River as well as why you should visit and what to do!
Brantford
The City of Brantford is an unassuming place with a small-town vibe but full big city adventures!
Visitors will find a diverse list of things to do in Brantford. It’s a hub for many Grand Trails! You can hike, bike, and paddle here! A few great trails in Brantford to check out are the SC Johnson Trail, Hamilton to Brantford Rail Trail, and the Gilkison Trail.
Along with the Grand Trails, the city is home to museums, galleries, public art, and many historic sites! Be sure to pop by the Bell Homestead National Historic Site!
For those looking to base themselves in Brantford to explore the Grand River trails, I highly recommend the Best Western Brantford Hotel and Conference Centre.
Paris
One of the prettiest little towns in Canada is Paris, Ontario! Also known as the Cobblestone Capital of Canada, Paris is a lovely place to explore and stay in Brant County.
With the Grand River running right through the heart of town, Paris offers connect to many of the Grand Trails as well as access to the Grand River itself! While you explore the trails and river there are a ton of things to do in Paris to round out your stay.
Local Tip: If you don’t have a bicycle or device to paddle the river, don’t worry! You can rent bikes from Grand Experiences. Visit their website for more information here.
The offers plenty of great places to eat and drink, as well as shop! Be sure to pop into Wincey Mills, an old mill reinvented into a market place filled with places to eat, drink and shop. Plus, if you’re looking for help exploring the area check out tours from Tasty Road Trips and Grand River Rafting Company.
Located right downtown is one of the coolest hotels in Ontario! I highly recommend staying at the Arlington Hotel during your stay!
Cambridge
An incredible place along the Grand River to explore is Cambridge! Located where the Speed and Grand Rivers meet, it offers one of the scenic sections of the Grand!
Visitors will be delighted with the incredibly diverse things to do in Cambridge! There are nearly 60 km of trails, many of which found along the rivers, within the city. Plus, many scenic sights are found along the Grand!
Beyond the trails and rivers, Cambridge has a wealth of street art, historic sites, and great shops and restaurants!
For a great place to stay close to the Grand River, book your stay at Four Points by Sheraton!
Kitchener
Best known for their annual Oktoberfest, Kitchener is another jewel of a city along the Grand River! If food, festivals, and fun is what you’re looking for then Kitchener is it!
Every year herds of people descend on the city for Kitchener’s Oktoberfest, which is the largest Bavarian celebration outside of Germany. Plus, every December more visit for the annual Christkindl Market, one of the best Christmas markets in Ontario!
One of the most popular Grand Trails in Kitchener is the Walter Bean Trail! However, along with the festivals, events, and trails, Kitchener is home to incredible street art, museums, and more!
For visitors looking to base themselves in Kitchener and looking for a place to stay near the river, book a night at Kitchener Inn & Suites.
Elora
Another great small town along the Grand River is Elora! Best known for the Elora Gorge, this stunning work of Mother Nature and the Grand River, offers plenty of adventures. You can hike, bike, and paddle here! Within the Elora Gorge Conservation Area there’s even a waterfall!
The town is best known for its limestone buildings that offer a slice of Europe in Ontario! Visitors will find a long list of things to do in Elora! Along with the hiking and paddling, you can browse the shops, attend one of the many festivals, or enjoy an afternoon tea!
Elora is also bursting with great places to eat and drink! There’s a distillery, brewery, plenty of coffee shops, and everything from casual eats to fine dining. For patio views of the Grand River check out The Cellar Pub and Grill!
Local Tip: Elora offers another place to rent bicycles, Elora Ski & Cycle!
If you plan to stay in Elora there’s a place for everyone’s taste and budget. A couple of great choices are the Elora Mill Hotel & Spa or The Village Inn.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Grand River Trails
For more information I’ve rounded up a few frequently asked questions about the Grand River trails. You’ll find key facts below about the river and its trails.
How long is the Grand River trail? – The Grand River is 310 km.
Can you walk by the Grand River? – Yes! There are many trails to walk by the Grand River!
Top Grand River Trails – The Grand River Trail, Grand Valley Trail, SC Johnson Trail, Cambridge to Paris Rail Trail, Elora – Cataract Trailway, Hamilton – Brantford Rail Trail, Gilkison Trail, Walter Bean Grand River Trail, and Kissing Bridge Trail.
How long is the Cambridge to Paris Rail Trail? – The Cambridge to Paris Rail Trail is 18 km long.
How long does it take to bike Cambridge to Paris trail? – It takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours to bike the Cambridge to Paris Rail Trail.
Can you rent bikes along the Grand River? – Yes! In Paris you can rent bikes, canoes and kayaks from Grand Experiences. There’s also Elora Ski & Cycle.
Disclaimer: This post was created in partnership with The Grand Watershed Trails Network. However, as always, all opinions are my own.
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