5 rivers for the ultimate summer tubing experience near Toronto

There’s no better way to beat the heat than by spending a hot summer afternoon tubing down a lazy river with stunning views.

Luckily, there are several great rivers perfect for tubing located just outside of Toronto, as well as a few a bit further away for those interested in a summer road trip that will most definitely end at your new favourite place to cool off.

So, the next time you need to cool off, here are six lazy rivers for the perfect tubing experience.

Elora Gorge

About an hour and 45 minutes from Toronto, this beautiful natural area is home to the Grand River, which rushes past 22-metre high cliffs. There are trails with scenic routes for hiking with views of the water below where tubers and kayakers make their way down the waterway.

The Elora Gorge Park is open daily from late June until the start of September. Tubing closes when river levels are too high so be sure to check the beach and tubing conditions before leaving.

Online registration is now required for tubing, meaning you will have to purchase tickets online in advance. Park admission is separate and must be paid upon entry at the gate. There are new protocols in place, this tubing season, to ensure visitor and staff safety.

Where: 7400 Wellington County Rd. 21, Elora

Grand River

Located just one hour away from Toronto, Grand River, which runs through Paris, Ontario, offers two tubing routes (either 11 or 13 km long) to choose from. You’ll be floating down the river for about three to five hours so come prepared for a long, lazy ride.

Where: Located between the 401 and 403 Highway with 4 start points.

Vermillion River

Vermillion River is located in Chelmsford, which is about a four-hour drive from Toronto, so make this one a full-day trip or even an overnight adventure.

The float is between 2.5 and four hours long depending on the wind and level of the river. In the summer, the river has a slow-moving current and is less than three feet deep in most places. Although there are a few deep pockets, you can stand up almost anywhere, making for an easy going float.

You can now reserve your spot online.

Where: 5727 Nickle Offset Rd, Chelmsford

Credit River

The Credit River is located in Inglewood, a short 30-minute drive from Toronto. The river can be unpredictable, so be sure to read their tip sheet before heading out on the tube.

Credit Valley Conservation does not provide watercraft rentals but members of the public are known to tube from the Terra Cotta area to Glen Williams.

Where: Inglewood Dr, Mississauga

Saugeen River

The Saugeen River has two tubing runs that last either roughly 45 minutes or two hours. Campgrounds are located near the river, making it the perfect place to head for a short summer trip.

The Park is not currently accepting day visitors for tubing, due to COVID-19, but those staying at the campground are able to partake.

Where: 173844 Mulock Road, Hanover

Disclaimer: To ensure your safety and well-being when visiting parks, social distance, stay on marked trails, abide by trail closure signs, and hike with a friend for increased safety. To avoid hazards, we recommend keeping a safe distance back from slopes, bluffs and river edges.

Also be sure to maintain your physical distance between others while enjoying nature.

For more information on how to stay safe while enjoying Parks Canada places please visit their website.

Stay safe and enjoy the great outdoors!