Welcome to the Grand River—Our Happy Place
We help you with your experience, but what’s ours?
Your Guides on the Water
Since 1997, we have been Southern Ontario’s trusted guide to the Grand River, Long Point, and the Nith River. Operating out of our historic 150-year-old outfitter’s shop in Paris, Ontario, we have helped thousands of families, groups, and solo explorers discover the “Path Less Travelled.”
We know that to truly relax, you need to trust your guide. That is why we are proud recipients of 15 tourism and business awards and are recognized as a Southwest Ontario Signature Experience.
A New Chapter in Conservation
In 2025, I took the helm of Grand Experiences, but for me, paddling isn’t just a business—it’s in my blood. As a lifelong backcountry enthusiast and author of Mighty Smallmouth, I bring a deep-rooted passion for the water to every trip we launch.
For years, I worked in the corporate world, helping lead engineering teams at major financial institutions. I loved the challenge, but I missed the quiet. I realized that my best days weren’t spent behind a screen, but paddling down this river with my family.
When the opportunity came to lead this company—a steward of the valley since 1997—I didn’t just buy a business; I bought a lifestyle. Now, I trade spreadsheets for paddles and conference calls for the sound of the current. My goal is simple: to help you find that same sense of escape that brought me here.
The Places We Call Home
The Grand River
We are privileged to operate on a designated Canadian Heritage River. Known for its scenic beauty, rare Carolinian forests, and rich cultural history, this waterway is the lifeblood of our community and the heart of our business.
Big Creek in Long Point
Often called the “Canadian Amazon,” Big Creek winds through a jungle-like canopy into a National Wildlife Area. This Ontario Signature Experience is a protected ecosystem that offers a rare glimpse into the wilder side of Southern Ontario.
What We Believe
Nature Belongs to Everyone
You don’t need to be an expert to enjoy the river. We exist to remove the barriers to the outdoors—handling the gear, the shuttles, and the instruction—so that everyone, from first-timers to seasoned trippers, can experience the Grand River valley.
We Are Stewards, Not Just Users
We don’t just use the river; we protect it. We are committed to preserving the rare Carolinian forest and the Grand River ecosystem. Every trip we launch is guided by a deep respect for the land and a commitment to ensuring it remains pristine for the next generation.
Adventure Should Be Stress-Free
We believe your time off is sacred. That is why we obsess over the logistics—monitoring water levels, maintaining high-quality gear, and managing shuttles—so you can focus entirely on connecting with the people around you.