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Thanksgiving Long Weekend - Oct 11 to 14: RBG Centre, Hendrie Park, and Rock Garden open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with last admission at 4 p.m. Arboretum and trails open 8 a.m. to dusk.

Paddle

Paddling at RBG

See the marsh and its inhabitants from a new perspective! Join us for guided canoeing programs with “Paddling in Paradise,” or bring your own watercraft for a self-guided tour on the water.

Guided Canoe Programming

Credit: MarkZelinski.com

Paddling in Paradise

Guided Tours by Canoe

Come explore Cootes Paradise by canoe to get a glimpse of the astounding life that depends on the health of the marsh for its survival. Register for these guided tours to view wetland plants and wildlife, and hear about some of our restoration efforts that help keep Cootes a Paradise.

We supply the canoes, paddles and lifejackets, you bring your camera and binoculars!

Pre-Registration Required. Check rbg.ca/publicprograms for a list of all upcoming courses and workshops.

Upcoming Courses & Workshops
  • Group Canoeing On Cootes Paradise Credit Markzelinski.com
  • Kayaking Grindstone Creek Credit Markzelinski.com
  • Couple Canoeing Credit Markzelinski.com
  • launching canoe cootes paradise credit markzelinski.com
  • Yes Alliance Fall Canoeing

Canoe Launches for Self-Guided Paddling

For those with their own watercraft, RBG is home to two canoe launches: Princess Point along Cootes Paradise, and Valley Inn at Grindstone Creek. Seasonally, docks are also available to help land and portage around the Fishway.

  • Paddling is prohibited in posted areas during the nesting season (May and June) to protect vulnerable wildlife.
  • Motorized boats are prohibited at all times, except for RBG research purposes.
  • Do not land your boats on the islands of Cootes Paradise; these are protected nature sanctuaries for birds and/or fragile plant species.

PLEASE NOTE: RBG does not offer canoe rentals. Please check with your local outdoor recreation store for rental options.

Support Conservation at RBG

These conservation projects are possible thanks to the generous support of RBG Members and donors. With a donation to RBG, you can ensure an active, vibrant and healthy future for the children of today and tomorrow through our horticultural and conservation projects.

Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG) is the largest botanical garden in Canada, a National Historic Site, and registered charitable organization with a mandate to bring together people, plants and nature.