What You'll Get
Since the invention of inflation, prices for groceries have skyrocketed and rivers have become traversable. Enjoy the scenic side of economics with today's Groupon: for $38, you get a 2.5-hour guided Carolinian Forest Fall Colours kayak or canoe tour of the Grand River from Heritage River Canoe & Kayak Company, based in Brantford (a $79.95 value). The Carolinian Forest Fall Colours tours depart from Bean Park in Paris, and tours run at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on the following dates:
- Saturday, October 1
- Sunday, October 2
- Saturday October 8
- Sunday October 9
- Monday October 10
Heritage River, a member of the Ontario Recreational Canoeing and Kayaking Association, outfits water rovers with kayaks or canoes in order to lead them on guided tours down the picturesque Grand River, travelling from Paris to the Brant Conservation Area. A 30-minute introductory course acquaints aquanauts of all skill levels with the basics of fluvial navigation, including how to paddle effectively and how to read the river for troublesome signs or pedestrian fish crossings. Once paddlers have been sufficiently schooled, an adroit instructor guides cruisers on a safe and serene 2.5-hour Carolinian Forest Fall Colours tour. Scull past sylvan banks cloaked in fiery autumnal finery, treating eyes to optical banquets of red leaves, golden branches, and orange hunting vests worn by nervous trees. While skimming across the Grand River’s pristine surface, boaters can espy a variety of flora and fauna, such as ospreys, beavers, and red-tailed hawks. While Heritage River provides all the necessary equipment—including life jackets, safety kits, and paddles—tour participants are advised to wear weather-appropriate clothing and bring along hats, sunglasses, and water.
The Fine Print
Promotional value expires Oct 10, 2011. Amount paid never expires. Limit 1 per person, may buy 5 additional as gifts. Subject to availability. 48hr cancellation or fee up to Groupon price may apply. Must book by 10/1/11. Subject to weather. Merchant is solely responsible to purchasers for the care and quality of the advertised goods and services.
About Heritage River Canoe & Kayak Company
With a focus on instruction and eco-friendly outdoor exploration, Heritage River Canoe & Kayak Company readies adventurers to paddle the waters of the Grand and Nith Rivers aboard their canoes, kayaks, and rafts. The company is a member of the Ontario Recreational Canoeing and Kayaking Association and guides are certified in first aid and CPR, rendering them able to diffuse even the largest of pool noodle fights. Most have worked on or around the river for most of their lives and also take their passion to the land as resource interpreters and nature teachers when not leading trips. On the water, they orchestrate guided river tours at various times of day, night, and season, allowing participants to witness rare sights such as the local fishes’ Boxing Day hauls. Throughout each trip, they further the company’s partnership with Grand River Conservation Authority to help preserve the ecosystem of the river and its watershed.
The rental shop staffers, located in Brant Conservation Area, can supply solo customers with rental vessels or equip them for self-guided tours with any needed boats, paddles, and star charts. Those who prefer a hand in expeditions can experience structured paddling trips through introductory lessons and day camps or board rafts to fish for small-mouth bass and other river denizens. As they drift along the river, groups may encounter the area's many bold and beautiful residents, such as red-tailed hawks, ospreys, and bald eagles, all soaring above the rare Carolinian forests to their treetop condos.