Trip Rating: 4.0/5
This stretch of the Grand River between Galt and Glen Morris is a clean introduction to moving water paddling. The river flows steadily through islands, shallow riffles, and a low valley corridor, offering enough current to feel dynamic without becoming technical under normal summer conditions.
One of the immediate impressions of river travel here is efficiency. With the current working for you, distance disappears quickly, and the river feels like it unfolds rather than resists. It is easy to see why downstream paddling opens up longer routes with less effort compared to flatwater trips.
The route begins near Highway 24 in Galt and follows the river south through a series of bends and island channels before ending in the village of Glen Morris beside the Cambridge–Paris Rail Trail. The take-out is scenic and well placed, making this a satisfying point-to-point paddle.
Logistics and Planning
This is not a solo shuttle trip. A two-car setup is required, with vehicles staged at both the put-in and take-out. In addition, this section should be pre-scouted, especially in spring. The Grand River moves significantly faster during seasonal runoff, and while dams and hazards are marked, they must be treated with respect and given wide clearance.
Launch Site
The launch is beside the Petro Canada on Highway 24. There is no formal dock, but the access is straightforward and has the added convenience of nearby amenities. The gas station offers food and washrooms, and there are cafes and ice cream shops directly across the street, making it an unusually comfortable meeting point before or after the trip.
Coordinates: 200 Water St S, Cambridge, ON
Trip Length
This section of river is approximately 10 km long and typically takes around 1.5 hours at an easy downstream pace. Time on the water will vary depending on flow, exploration around islands, and stops along the way.
In spring, currents can be strong and fast moving. One of the advantages of this route is easy access to the rail trail, which runs alongside the river and allows you to walk upstream to observe current speed and river features before launching.
Difficulty
Under summer conditions, this is a generally calm run with light rapids and gentle standing waves. Seasonal water level is the primary factor influencing difficulty.
- Currents increase substantially in spring.
- Hazards and dams are present and must be avoided.
- Boat control and situational awareness are important in higher flow.
With appropriate planning and seasonal awareness, this section of the Grand River offers a rewarding and accessible moving-water experience.
Cost
$0
A Small Side Trip
Along the route, stone ruins can be found near the riverbank. A short stop reveals the remains of the German’s Woollen Mill, built in 1867 by brothers Alva and Sydney German. The site is partially collapsed and heavily overgrown, giving it a distinctly atmospheric feeling.
The mill is associated with local folklore, including an unsolved murder in 1941, and is often described as one of the more haunted ruins in the region. Whether or not one subscribes to that reputation, it is a worthwhile stop for anyone interested in river history and industrial remnants.
Flowing through quiet countryside and finishing in a small historic village, this stretch of the Grand River balances ease of travel with enough movement to stay engaging. It is a route that highlights why river paddling becomes a natural progression for many flatwater kayakers.
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