The Grand Expedition: Cambridge to Paris Canoe or Kayak Trip
A backcountry experience without the drive north.
$57 – $140
Book online now!
Find your rhythm on the river. You don’t need to drive four hours to Algonquin to get lost in nature. This trip is for the paddler who craves a true escape—the kind where you have enough time to leave the noise behind and fully immerse yourself in the landscape. Spanning the gap between the historic limestone of Cambridge and the cobblestones of Paris, this journey offers the solitude and scenery of a northern adventure, right here in your backyard.
Like tripping, but close to home
The “North” Near Home As you paddle away from the launch in Cambridge, the city quickly fades. The river widens, the banks grow steeper, and the trees get thicker. This is the “Grand Valley”—a landscape that feels miles away from civilization. It’s the perfect setting to silence your phone and reconnect with the wild.
Icons of the River The highlight of this route is drifting past the Three Sisters—massive stone pillars rising from the water, remnants of a railway bridge from a bygone era. They stand as silent sentinels in the middle of the current, a perfect photo op that defines this section of the Grand.
A Full Day of Discovery Because this trip covers more ground, you get to see more changes in the river. You’ll navigate around islands, spot Bald Eagles nesting in the high branches, and enjoy the satisfaction of a full day spent powering your own way downstream.
The Expedition Plan
Park at the finish. We shuttle you to the start.
- Park in Paris: Leave your car at the Syl Apps Community Centre (free parking) and walk across the bridge to our shop at 109 Grand River St N.
- Shuttle Upstream: Hop in our van for the ride up to the launch point in Cambridge.
- Launch & Paddle: We get you on the water. You set your own pace for the journey back to Paris.
- The Landing: You’ll finish your trip at Penman’s Dam. From there, you’ll pull your boats up the bank to the park (a short portage) where the trip concludes.
Highlights
- The “Northern” Feel: Deep wilderness vibes without the long drive.
- The Three Sisters: Paddle past these iconic 100-year-old stone pillars.
- Find Your Flow: A longer route allows you to truly settle into a paddling rhythm.
- Historic Scenery: Start in the limestone city of Galt and end in picturesque Paris.
Your Expedition Path
Easily navigate this epic journey from start to finish.
What’s included
- Your choice of boat (Canoe or Kayak) & Paddles.
- PFDs (Life Jackets) & Safety Kit.
- Pre-Trip Shuttle from Paris to Cambridge.
- Launch assistance.
Need to Know
- Meeting Location: Grand Experiences Shop (109 Grand River St N, Paris, ON).
- Parking: Syl Apps Community Centre (51 William St).
- Distance: 22km (approx. 5 hours).
- Skill Level: Intermediate. Ideally suited for those comfortable with a full day of activity.
- The Finish: The take-out is at Penman’s Dam, requiring a short pull-up to the park.
What to Bring
- Fuel for the Journey: Pack a hearty lunch and plenty of snacks.
- Hydration: Bring more water than you think you need.
- Sun Protection: You will be on the water for most of the day—hats and sunscreen are essential.
- Footwear: Water shoes or sandals with straps.