There is no better way to celebrate Canada’s world-renowned natural beauty and wild landscapes than visiting one of its many parks or conservation areas. In Ontario, we are spoiled for options when it comes green spaces to visit, with dozens of parks and protected areas located across the province. When you’re living in a Rockwell home, you’re only ever a short drive away from the Elora Gorge Conservation Area, the most gorgeous area of the Grand River Valley. Featuring spectacular towering cliffs, breathtaking scenic trails, and thrilling white water rapids, it has become a premier destination for nature lovers and thrill seekers alike. Make the most out of your day at the Elora Gorge by reading about all the attractions and amenities this beautiful conservation area has to offer, and plan a day trip your whole family will never forget.

Although the list of things to do at the Elora Gorge is virtually endless, it will always be most popular with day-trippers looking for a natural hiking destination. Featuring 3 kilometers of relaxing walking trails surrounded by views of the lush natural landscape and the 22-metre deep gorge, you’ll find yourself having trouble taking yours eyes off the view. Scenic overlooks throughout the trails provide picturesque views of tubers and fishermen below. An added bonus to the trails is that they’re dog friendly, which means that even the furry members of your family can enjoy a day at the Elora Gorge!

Other popular activities visitors usually add to their to-do list include cycling on the Elora Cataract Trailway, a 47-kilometre trail connecting the Grand and Credit River watersheds and tubing through the exhilarating Grand River rapids. Visitors seeking a little less adventure can cool down at the splash pad, pick up a game of baseball at one of conservation area’s two baseball diamonds, or check out the child-friendly playground. The Elora Gorge has also earned the reputation of being one of the best brown trout fisheries in North America, so if you’re a fishing enthusiast, take advantage of this opportunity and wade through the waters for tonight’s dinner! Although the Elora Gorge doesn’t have any designated swimming spots, visitors can swim for free at the neighbouring scenic Elora Quarry Park!

Aside from all the activities the conservation area offers visitors, the number of amenities Elora Gorge has makes it a great choice for all park goers, from seasoned outdoorsmen to people just looking to take some great Instagram shots. In addition to free parking, the Elora Gorge also has washrooms, showers, designated picnic areas, visitor barbecues, a community bulletin board, and a concession stand. With enough amenities to make you feel at home in nature, you’ll want to stay the night at one of the conservation area’s 400 campsites!

The Elora Gorge has everything you could ever need from a conservation area and even stuff you didn’t know you wanted, making it the perfect spot for quiet getaways and family adventures alike. Don’t forget to keep an eye on their event list! The conservation area hosts events throughout the season fun for the entire family, with everything from wilderness survival workshops, tree planting parties, and fishing lessons. There is no doubt that you’ll quickly find yourself falling in love with both the conservation area and Rockwood’s close proximity to it!