The Heritage Run: Kaufman Flats to Bingemans
Experience the wilderness and heritage of the Grand, right in the heart of the city.
$65 – $120
Book online now!
A hidden corridor of history and nature. It’s hard to believe you are in the middle of Kitchener-Waterloo. On this 10km journey, the city noise fades away, replaced by the rustle of the Carolinian forest and the flow of the current. You’ll drift past the silent ruins of the “Ghost Bridge” and navigate a protected green belt that feels miles away from civilization—all while being just around the corner from home.
A hidden corridor of history and nature
The “Ghost Bridge” The highlight of this trip is paddling past the massive concrete piers of the People’s Railway (The Berlin & Northern Railway). Built in the early 1900s to connect the bustling industrial town of Berlin (now Kitchener) to the north, the line struggled against financial headwinds and the rise of the automobile. Today, these “ghost piers” rising from the water are all that remain—a striking monument to an ambitious era of steam and steel.
A Mix of Scenery The river here changes character as you flow downstream. You’ll start in the wide, tree-lined corridors near Kaufman Flats, pass under the modern infrastructure of the city, and glide through the “urban wilderness” near Bridgeport. It’s a unique perspective on Kitchener-Waterloo that you can only get from the water.
The Perfect Afternoon At 10km, this trip is the “Goldilocks” distance—longer than a quick float, but manageable for beginners. It gives you enough time to settle into a rhythm, watch for Ospreys and Great Blue Herons, and truly disconnect.
The Heritage Plan
Park at the finish. We shuttle you to the start.
- Park at Bingemans: Meet us at the Grand Experiences Pavilion inside Bingemans Park (beside the Embassy Room). Your car stays here.
- Shuttle Upstream: We drive you upriver to the launch at Kaufman Flats.
- Launch & Paddle: We get you on the water. You paddle the 10km route (approx. 2.5 – 3 hours) downstream back to Bingemans.
- Land at Your Car: The trip ends at our private dock at Bingemans. Pull your boat ashore and you are done!
Highlights
- The People’s Railway: Paddle right up to the historic ruins of the Berlin & Northern Railway bridge.
- New Route: Be among the first to experience this extended 10km stretch.
- Urban Nature: See the city from a different angle, hidden by the river’s high banks.
- Convenience: Start and finish at Bingemans with easy parking.
Your Path Through Heritage
Drift past parks and bridges on the way to fun.
What’s included
- Your choice of boat (Canoe or Kayak) & Paddles.
- PFDs (Life Jackets) & Safety Kit.
- Pre-Trip Shuttle to Kaufman Flats.
- Launch assistance.
Need to Know
- Meeting Location: Grand Experiences Pavilion at Bingemans (425 Bingemans Centre Dr, Kitchener).
- GPS Coordinates: 43.4760178, -80.4501085.
- Distance: 10km (approx. 2.5 – 3 hours).
- Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate.
What to Bring
- The Essentials: Reusable water bottle, snacks/lunch, sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses (with a strap!).
- Footwear: Water shoes or sandals with straps. Avoid flip-flops.
- Clothing: Synthetic, quick-drying clothes. Avoid cotton/jeans.
- For the Car: A towel and a dry change of clothes.
Disclaimer
Participants must acknowledge and accept all inherent risks associated with paddling and outdoor activities offered by Grand Experiences. All participants release and waive any claims against Grand Experiences, its staff, affiliates, and property owners for any injury, loss, or damage incurred during participation. Each participant is responsible for their own safety and for any minor children in their care. A properly fitted lifejacket must be worn at all times while on the water.