Discover the thrills of white-water rafting combined with ancient fossil hunting at Elora Raft Rides. A perfect adventure for all ages, offering both excitement and education amid stunning gorge scenery.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Basic physical fitness required; suitable for most ages and abilities.
Wildlife
History
Elora Gorge has been a popular local spot since the 19th century, with its sandstone cliffs carved over millions of years, attracting explorers and thrill-seekers alike.
Conservation
The site is actively preserved to protect its geological features and biodiversity, with strict guidelines on minimizing environmental impact during visits.
Elora Raft Rides
Discover the thrills of white-water rafting combined with ancient fossil hunting at Elora Raft Rides. A perfect adventure for all ages, offering both excitement and education amid stunning gorge scenery.
Elora Raft Rides operates from Elora, Ontario, offering a variety of water-based experiences on the Grand River and nearby waterways.
The business provides private captained cruises in English gondola-style punts, shared piloted safaris, BareBoat Escapades for self-steered 20-foot punts, and stand-up paddle board (SUP) rides. Signature offerings include the Commodore's Cruise, Romantic Cruise, Starlight Cruise, wedding portrait rides, Piloted Safaris, SUP 1-Person 60 minute rides, and BareBoat Escapades that launch from Elora's Boardwalk.
Trips pass notable local features such as Bissell Dam, the Elora Quarry, waterfalls at Bissell Park, and the Tunnel of Time, which exposes 400-million-year-old fossils beneath limestone cliffs. Captained options are led by experienced captains who tailor outings for celebrations, photography sessions, family outings, and romantic experiences. Piloted Safaris accommodate up to eight passengers and operate on select days from June to October. SUP rides travel upstream past islands and a beaver lodge and include an optional portage at Bissell Dam toward Elora Quarry.
Elora Raft Rides emphasizes memorable on-water experiences that highlight local geology, cliffs, white-water sections, and scenic waterfalls. Guests seeking wedding photos, private time on the water, guided fossil viewing, or self-steered adventures can reserve specific trips or inquire about customization and scheduling. Reservations are recommended to confirm trip types and availability.
Location
Elora, ON
Launch point at Elora Boardwalk
Tours Offered
7
Private, shared, and self-steered trips
Fossil Age
400M years
Seen in the Tunnel of Time
Group Size
Up to 8
Piloted safaris seat up to eight
Book a captained cruise, SUP ride, starlight tour, wedding portrait session, or a self-steered BareBoat Escapade to explore Elora's geological highlights.
Wear quick-drying, layered clothing
Layer up with moisture-wicking clothes and bring an extra dry set for after the trip.
Use waterproof sunscreen
Protect your skin from sun exposure during the outdoor water activity.
Secure loose items
Make sure cameras and phones are in waterproof containers or secure pouches.
Be prepared for spray
Expect splashes—wear hats and sunglasses to stay comfortable.
Quick-drying clothing
Helps keep you comfortable when wet and dries quickly.
summer
Waterproof sunscreen
Protects your skin from harmful UV rays while enjoying outdoor water activities.
summer
Secure waterproof bag
Keep your valuables safe from water spray and splashes.
Hiking sandals or water shoes
Provide grip and comfort during water excursions.
summer