From the end of September to mid October, discover Southern Ontario’s second “Natural Wonder”. A river drift into autumn’s crimson fire… splashed with burnt orange and hickory yellows. Watch as each stroke opens the canvas of the Carolinian forest. Listen as a blue jays echo across the sky. You have just entered the Grand River Valley.
A “Fall Colours” drift on the Grand River is an experience not to be missed. There is the warm sun on your back and the whole valley before you. The beauty is fragile… easily dispelled by the wind. Even the steely waters reflect colour. Every breath inhales the fragrance of leaves. And there is an autumn silence... as if no one has been here before. Visitors find it hard to believe that cities lie beyond the horizon.
Fall Colour Drifts are offered 7 days a week. The journey down the river uses eight person rafts, there are also guided canoe and kayak trips available.
The rafts offer no fear of tipping and all trips include a personal guide. You can sit in the rafts and paddle… or request deck-chaired platforms to drift. The guided trips are designed to give the group their own wilderness intimacy, but groups of up to 30 people can be accommodated. The drifts are 2 to 3 hours long. Departure times can be custom scheduled to accommodate people traveling from a distance.
Overnight accommodations & great restaurants are available in the Grand River Valley. Along with the B&Bs, there is the elegant Arlington Hotel in Paris with fine dining. For the more rustic… there is Pinehurst Conservation Area and Brant Park Conservation Area for camping.
The countryside River Ridge Bed & Breakfast, near Paris caters to small groups. They have an outdoors hot tub & heated swimming pool. Their North Wing Suite can accommodate a family of up to 6 for $180 total with a country breakfast included. There is also their honeymoon Master’s Den and the Pinery Suite. They have a total capacity of 12 people.
The Grand River Rafting Company in Paris, Ontario offers a Fall Colours Drift. Families can raft for a minimum price of $180 with children. Boating equipment, guide, return shuttle ride and tax are included.
If you are looking for something different this coming autumn… whether a day trip or overnight… why not experience the Grand River Valley?
