Canoeing & Kayaking
With several rivers flowing from the Niagara Escarpment into the blue waters of Georgian Bay, Grey County is a mecca for paddlers of all ages.
Photo By: Petal Furness
Great Places to Paddle:
- The Beaver River in the northeast was named for the many beavers found along its 40 km route. It features access points on Grey Road 13 north of Kimberley, Epping Sideroad and at Heathcote. Contact Free Spirit Tours for a guided canoe or kayak adventure. www.free-spirittours.com or 705-444-3622.
- The Saugeen River canoe route starts in Hanover and heads west to Lake Huron through Grey and Bruce Counties. If you're an ambitious paddler, you can travel the full 102 km from Hanover to Southampton. For the rest of us, there are numerous access points along the sideroads between Hanover and Lake Huron. One of the main ones being Hanover Park on 7th Avenue.
- Durham Conservation Area has a day use area where you can canoe or kayak the Saugeen River. (Parking fee applies from May - Oct.)
- Georgian Bay - for the more adventurous, sea kayaking on Georgian Bay is a great way to explore the majestic shoreline. Colpoy's Bay near Wiarton or the Owen Sound Bay are good places to start. Go on your own or with an outfitter - either way, let someone know about your route and timing, and stay tuned to the weather. Check the marine forecast before heading out.
Helpful Contacts:
Free Spirit Tours
www.free-spirittours.com
705-444-3622
www.free-spirittours.com
705-444-3622
Suntrail Outfitters
www.suntrail.net
877-882-2958
Thorncrest Outfitters
www.thorncrestoutfitters.com
888-34-KAYAK
