Paddling on the Speed River

Speed River - This is a great there and back paddle of approx 90 - 120 minutes. Lots of wildlife especially herons. It may get shallow and muddy in late summer and fall, but little current to contend with.

Speed River - Fun and fast class 2 run with lots of swifts and some flatwater sections. Only doable after a heavy fall rain or on an early spring day- and only if the dam is open in Guelph. The Speed River Below Guelph gauge should be above ~10 CMS for the best time. Makes for a great chill and fun afternoon paddle. Watch for wood, no major log jams but there are certainly lots of sweepers along the riverside. Above 20cms the river would get more challenging with more wood in play. Above ~40 cms there is a low bridge near the start (just downstream of the Hanlon Parkway/Highway 6) that might cause issues getting under. At ~50CMS and above, it blocks the entire river. Scout the low bridge from the Royal Recreation Trail by Highway 6 if the water is high.