The Best Ways to Enjoy Summer on the Grand River

The countdown to beautiful weather has started and it’s time to start planning how to take advantage of those long and luxurious summer days. The Grand River is Brantford’s largest natural asset and something that many of us who grew up around ‘the Grand’, take for granted. Here are some suggestions of how you can enjoy this Canadian Heritage River that lives in your own backyard.

Paddling

What better way to take advantage of the Grand River than to get out in a boat! There are two local companies who can help you see the water up close and personal. Grand River Rafting Company offers a diverse selection of boating experiences. Kayak adventure for one, canoe for two, raft for the family or turbo tube, all at varying lengths of trip from hourly rentals right up to a 17.5 kilometre journey from Cambridge to Paris. Or paddle through the same scenic woodland along calm water with Grand Experiences Outdoor Adventure Company.

Hiking

If a more active adventure is what you’re looking for, Grand Experiences also offers many guided hiking and camping excursions. Try an overnight trip with a stay at a local inn, or really get out into the wild with the Grand Canoe Camping Experience, a two day, two night, fully outfitted camping trip where you will paddle, camp and hike along the river and learn why the Grand River was given its Canadian Heritage River designation.

Parks

There are many parks that line the banks of the Grand River in Brantford. Let your pup go for a leash free run at Dogford Park, wander the natural greenspace at Waterworks Park and discover natural wetlands through D’Aubigny Creek Park. Parks are an excellent location for picnics or to enjoy the summer sunshine while listening to the sounds of the running river water nearby. And who can forget the good old past time of skipping stones? With close to ten parks situated along its banks, Brantford is full of opportunities to get out into nature along the banks of the Grand.

However you choose to enjoy the warmer months, be sure to include some Grand River exploration this year.