The Grand River Watershed is the largest in Southern Ontario and the stretch of the Grand River from Paris to Brantford is full of opportunities to hike, kayak, canoe, raft and fish. Make the most out of the Grand River with the following riverside activities. Hazelview’s Brantford communities offer rental apartments in some of the most convenient, central and scenic parts of the city.
Hiking
The Grand River is covered with fantastic hiking, walking and biking trails. The trails wander through a combination of woods, fields and urban areas, and are rich with diverse animal and plant life. The Hamilton to Brantford Rail-Trail is Ontario’s first entirely off-road, interurban hiking and biking trail. Trail users can enjoy over 20 miles of completely resurfaced trail that begins on the west side of Hamilton and links to Brantford’s Gordon Glaves Memorial Pathway. Remember to bring plenty of water on your hike or bike ride, as there are no stores along most of the route.
Canoeing, Kayaking and Rafting
Canoeing, kayaking and even rafting are popular activities along the Paris-to-Brantford stretch of the Grand River. This stretch of river is known for its gentle currents and beautiful views. Rental canoes and kayaks are available at Brant Conservation Area, as well as a number of companies in Brantford that rent equipment, offer guided trips and transportation services. One of these companies is Heritage River, which offers lessons, rentals and full-service trips. Rafting on the Grand River is another popular activity. Rafting can be guided or self-guided, with a guided raft trips offering a great way to learn more about the nature and history of the area. For rafting beginners, try the route at Bean Park, only a 15-minute drive from Hazelview’s Brantford community at 150 Darling Street.
Fishing
The Grand River is known for its large selection of smallmouth bass, northern pike, walleye, rainbow trout and brown trout. There are three main access points to give boaters and anglers the best access to the river. They include:
- Bean Park, Paris
- Brant Conservation Area, Brantford
- Cockshutt Bridge, Brantford
Canadian Tire is just a ten-minute drive from Hazelview’s Brantford community at 28 Helen Avenue and is the perfect place to get all of your fishing gear including lures, rods, reels, hooks, apparel and more.
Make the most of the Grand River this summer with Hazelview’s suggestions for fun and active ideas in the great outdoors that include hiking, canoeing, kayaking, rafting and fishing.