Popular places to go lazy river tubing in Ontario this summer
As Ontario gets ready for summer, there's only one activity that perfectly captures the art of doing absolutely nothing: lazy river tubing.
All you need to do is grab a floatie, a cooler, and the sunscreen you'll probably forget to reapply, and then let the currents do all the work. But the best part? With travel costs on the rise, you don't need to book an expensive getaway to an all-inclusive resort to enjoy a tranquil float down a river.
Here are five places where you can go lazy river tubing right here in Ontario this summer.
Elora Gorge
If Ontario had a tubing capital, Elora Gorge would probably be it.
Located about 90 minutes from Toronto, this stretch of the Grand River takes riders through limestone cliffs and surprisingly fast-moving rapids that make the experience feel equal parts lazy and chaotic. But don't worry, the rapids don't define the entire ride. Some sections are calm enough for sunbathing and fully embracing the slow pace of summer.
While you're there, be sure to explore the village of Elora, known for its quaint cafes and patios. It's often referred to as one of the most beautiful villages in Ontario, and once you get there, you'll see why.
Fees: Starting at $21 + applicable taxes
Location: 7400 Wellington County Rd. 21, Elora, Ont.
Opening date: Mid-June
Paris, Ont.
If you prefer your lazy river experience with a little more structure, the family-owned business Grand River Rafting offers another down the river, this time from other southern Ontario spot like Paris.
The Paris to Brant Park tubing trip provides a calm, scenic experience that's ideal for beginners looking to simply relax on the water. Depending on the route you choose, trips can range from one to two hours all the way up to four or five hours.
Pro tip: Pack waterproof shoes and enough snacks to keep you going for a few hours on the river.
Fees: Starting at $36 + applicable taxes
Location: Various locations
Opening date: Now open for the season
Vermilion River
Northern Ontario doesn't get enough credit for tubing, but the Vermilion River might be one of the province's most underrated spots.
Located near Sudbury, the river is known for its peaceful stretches and clean water, making it easy to disconnect for an afternoon. Visitors can expect long, slow-moving sections where they can float for hours while surrounded by forested landscapes and rocky Canadian Shield scenery.
Fees: $28 + applicable taxes
Location: 5727 Nickel Offset Rd., Chelmsford, Ont.
Opening date: June 27
Saugeen River
The Saugeen River has quietly become one of Ontario's go-to spots for tubing and paddling, especially near Southampton and Paisley. This river is famously beginner-friendly, making it the perfect spot for slowing down and committing to relaxation.
Some visitors spend entire afternoons floating downstream with little effort beyond steering away from the occasional branch.
Fees: $25 + applicable taxes
Location: RR #3, 173844 Mulock Rd., Hanover, Ont.
Opening date: TBD
Welland, Ont.
If you love a crowd, this summer you can join hundreds of Ontario residents at Welland's annual FloatFest, where all you need to do is show up with your own tube and spend hours floating through the water.
The festival also features loads of food vendors and live entertainment, making it more than just your run-of-the-mill tubing trip.
Photo via Welland FloatFest.
Organizers are encouraging participants to bring a non-perishable food item or feminine hygiene products to donate to a local food bank upon entry.
Fee: Free
Location: 16 Townline Tunnel Rd., Welland, Ont.
Date: July 5
Regardless of how fun and chill lazy river tubing sounds, remember that safety comes first. Always wear your life jacket — even when the rivers are calm. Sunscreen and a waterproof bag are a must, and of course, a dry bag for your phone so it doesn't get wet unless you enjoy mid-water panic!
Grand River Conservation Authority
