The scenic route is the best route, no questions asked! The Grand River Route is close to Hamilton, Ontario and Highway 403 with beautiful views as you cruise along the scenic Grand River, one of our few Canadian Heritage Rivers.

According to Ontario’s Southwest, “Prepare yourself for breathtaking views of a waterway that is part of one of the few remaining pockets of Carolinian Forests.”

The Grand River

the grand river
Image via Harold Stiver/Shutterstock

If you aren’t familiar with the Grand River, then you may be surprised at how big it is! The river spans 310 km flowing throughout southcentral Ontario through several towns, past forests, and between limestone cliffs, leading to a waterfall in Elora.

There are only 40 Canadian Heritage Rivers in the country and the Grand River is one of them.

The route

The Grand River Route’s views of the waterway will leave you mesmerized any time of year, but in the fall the changing colours of the leaves that dance along the shores are even more stunning than usual.

Eventually, you may need to make a pit stop but don’t worry as there are plenty of options in Haldimand County.

The areas of Caledonia, Cayuga, and Dunnville are spread out along the Grand River, all boasting delicious restaurants and local shops!

If you want to take in even more nature, parks and viewpoints line the river’s edge as well. 

Sounds like a drive along the Grand River Route is ahead, Ontario!

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