Elora Gorge – Tubing the Grand River through the stunning Gorge

If you’re looking for an exciting outing for the family with a rush of adrenaline, Elora Gorge is the perfect setting for you. It is one of the most beautiful and spectacular natural areas in the Grand River Valley which is about 1 to 1 1/2 hours drive west of Brampton. The Elora Gorge conservation area has camping facilities with unserviced and serviced sites with electricity. So you could either take an RV or just go tent camping with your friends. You could also go just for a day picnic.

As the name suggests, the highlight of this place is the Gorge which has 22 m high cliffs through which the Grand River flows. You can make your way through the rapids using a kayak or a tube. There are trails along the river with scenic overlooks which are excellent for hiking and provide beautiful views of the river and the adventurous tubers. Tubes are available for rent at the site for a nominal fee. Remember, if it is a weekend make sure you pick up your tube as soon as you reach the spot as the number of tubes are limited and by three o’clock or so there is a waitlist.

Tubing can be challenging as there are a few rapids especially at the start. But the water is not very deep so even if you get thrown off the tube, it’s not dangerous and eventually you’ll catch up and be able to enjoy the rest of the ride, with a few bruises. Children have to be at least 42 inches tall and be accompanied by an adult. Another challenging aspect is that there are no entry and exit points midway along the tubing course due to the deep gorge and rock conditions. Once you begin at the launch point you are committed to finishing the entire length of the tubing course which is approximately 2 km. It is advisable to have only one rider per tube to prevent any hazardous situation. There are no lifeguards hence it is better to go in small groups.

[slideshow id=2] Note : all images are copyright © Shail Guggali

for more information visit : http://www.grandriver.ca/index/document.cfm?sec=27&sub1=124