Trip Rating: 4.25/5
The Grand River is one of the defining geographical features of southwestern Ontario, stretching from the Grand Valley all the way to Lake Erie. While much of the northern and central river is better suited to canoes and recreational boats, the southern reaches widen significantly and begin to feel much more like sea kayak territory.
This trip explores the Dunnville section of the river, focusing on the south channel and historic canal remnants, with optional extensions for those looking to spend more time on the water.
Launch Options
There are two practical launch sites for this stretch of the river, both shown on the maps below.
The Dunnville Boat Club launch operates on an honour system, costs $10, and is available year-round. Byng Island Conservation Area offers a nicer launch for kayaks but is seasonal and more expensive. You can view current fees here.
This trip description follows our route launching from the Dunnville Boat Club.
Getting Started
When you arrive at the boat club parking lot, look for the fee box mounted on the wall and fill out a parking slip before unloading. The lot has maintained washrooms, and downtown Dunnville sits directly across the street.
After unloading and getting geared up, we launched into crisp fall conditions and set off downstream.
The Lower Dam
The first major feature you encounter immediately after launching is the Dunnville dam. It is loud, visually imposing, and extremely dangerous. We approached only close enough to observe it from a safe distance and never paddled toward the outflow.
Low-head dams are particularly hazardous and should always be given a wide berth.
Historic Canal Structures
After rounding the point, we headed back up the south side of the islands. This short stretch can funnel wind, and lighter kayaks may feel exposed before re-entering the protected channel.
Once back in the channel, large stone walls appear along the shoreline. These are remnants of the old Welland Canal system, some dating back nearly two centuries. In places, collapsed walls form massive boulders that create a surprisingly interesting corridor to paddle through.
The South Channel
Past the canal ruins, the south channel opens up into a calm, scenic stretch of river. Wildlife is abundant here. We saw numerous birds, muskrats, and even a mink along the shoreline.
This channel is also the route you would paddle if launching from Byng Island.
Further downstream, a smaller secondary dam marks another point of interest. Beyond that, a narrow creek continues under a bridge and is paddleable for roughly 300 metres before becoming too shallow.
Trip Extensions
From here, paddlers can either turn back to the launch or continue downstream all the way to Port Maitland. Extending the trip significantly increases time on the water and should be planned accordingly.
Notes
- For food after the paddle, Flyers Cafe & Bakery is a local favourite.
- Some older photos in this post show paddlers without PFDs. These images are included intentionally to reflect growth and learning over time. PFDs should always be worn.
- Boat traffic can be heavy in summer. Maintain situational awareness, especially near the main river.
Trip Details
Trip Length: 2–3 hours to the south channel and back. 4–6 hours if paddling to Port Maitland.
Cost: $7 per person at Byng Island or $10 flat rate at the Dunnville Boat Club.
Skill Level: Minimum Level 1, conditions dependent.
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