near the take-out in Paris, then lock your kayak there when it’s time to ride the 18 kilometres back upriver to your car. Alternatively, you can make shuttle and/or


rental arrangements through one of the local outfitters or even catch a cab back to the GTO station for 15 or 20 dollars. Whichever way you choose to arrange


your shuttle, make sure to check out down- town Paris before you head home.Follow the trail from the portage to the bridge across the river.The businesses back onto the river and the cars still park diagonally on the main street. Check out one of the local diners such as “Morgan’s on the Grand.” Morgan’s has a deck overlooking the river and, if you’re doing the bike shuttle, the pub’s accommodating staff will be happy to watch your paddle and PFD until you return with your car. Just don’t forget to come back for your gear.You’re sure to want them for your next trip down the Grand.


James Kenney is a professional firefighter and part-time freelancer who drydocks in Ancaster, Ontario. He can be reached at jkenney@cogeco.ca.


above: Historic downtown Paris sits just below Penman’s Dam—the dark line across the middle of this photo. The take-out is at river-left just out of view.


below: A few back strokes are useful for speed control on one of the Grand’s many swifts. Who says a sea kayak isn't made for rivers?


ADVENTUREkayakmag.com 25


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36  |  Page 37  |  Page 38  |  Page 39  |  Page 40  |  Page 41  |  Page 42  |  Page 43  |  Page 44  |  Page 45  |  Page 46  |  Page 47  |  Page 48  |  Page 49  |  Page 50  |  Page 51  |  Page 52