This past weekend was supposed to be a celebration of dads, families, and time spent together on the water. As a father to three kids, I know exactly how much these family traditions mean. However, the Grand River had a different itinerary in mind for us this year. Following severe thunderstorms and days of heavy […]
Field Notes on the Grand River
Your insider guide to the Grand River. From seasonal wildlife sightings to trip planning tips, get the expert advice you need to plan a safe, memorable escape from the city.
Perfect Day on the Grand River with Melloul-Blamey
There is something remarkable about watching a professional team transition from the structured environment of the office to the natural rhythm of the Grand River. We recently had the absolute pleasure of hosting the team from Melloul-Blamey for a perfect afternoon on our Heritage Run, paddling from Kaufman Flats to Bingemans. From start to finish, […]
Grand River Flows and Your Safety
On June 19th, the Grand River reached a flow rate of 113 m³/s. In accordance with our safety protocols, we made the immediate decision to suspend all on-water operations. While a fast-moving river might look like an inviting thrill, the reality of high-water paddling requires profound respect and rigorous risk management. To understand why we […]
The Importance of Sun Protection
It’s that time of year again. We endured another cold, harsh winter, and now it’s time to enjoy the short summer Southern Ontario gives us. It’s time to make the most out of every sunny day! Before you head out on your next day trip, you will need to pack some essentials. When you’re out […]
Don’t Let Uncertainty Weather Your Plans
If you’ve spent any time checking the weather lately, you’ve probably noticed something: forecasts don’t always get it right. Just this week, we had a group of 11 guests reschedule their paddling trip 48 hours in advance after seeing a less-than-ideal weather forecast. When the day of the trip arrived, conditions on the Grand River […]
Trial and Error is the Hardest Way to Learn to Paddle
There is a distinct moment that almost every first-time paddler experiences. You push off from the riverbank, the sun is shining, the water looks inviting, and within thirty seconds, you are drifting sideways. You switch sides, dig the blade in, and suddenly you are facing the bank you just left. Renting a boat without a […]
World Photography Day Contest
Calling all adventurers, paddlers, nature lovers, and photographers! To celebrate World Photography Day, Grand Experiences is inviting you to share your favourite outdoor moments for a chance to WIN a FREE trip for two on the beautiful Grand River! Whether it’s a sunrise paddle, wildlife sighting, campfire glow, misty morning on the water, or your […]
Age is Just a Number
The Grand River watershed and Big Creek offer a natural playground where physical vitality and mental clarity come together, providing unique health benefits for seniors and retirees. This past week, we were privileged to welcome a wonderful group of active older adults—including several in their sixties, a couple at 73, and our oldest guest of […]
A Mid-Spring Update from the Grand
The Grand River valley is undergoing a massive sensory shift right now. The pale, hesitant greens of early May have completely deepened into a heavy, rich canopy that arches right over the water. When you look up from mid-river, it’s just a solid corridor of emerald. Along the banks, the switchgrasses and reeds have shot […]
Adam Shoalts Event Sold Out
An Update on Our Adam Shoalts Exclusive Event The response was overwhelming. Within a short time of announcing our exclusive weekend paddle with renowned explorer Adam Shoalts, every single spot was claimed. We know how much this unique opportunity meant to our community, and we are incredibly grateful for the enthusiasm. If you were hoping […]