Filming Notice - Elora

Visiting the Municipal Office in Elora between Friday, April 29 and May 2?

We are excited to share that filming for an upcoming production will take place at 1 MacDonald Square on the following dates:

Friday, April 26 & Monday, April 29 between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m.

Tuesday, April 30 & Wednesday, May 1 between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m.

Thursday, May 2, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.

 

During these times (Friday, April 26 & Monday, April 29 - Thursday, May 2)

Parking directly in front of the building will not be available.

Access to the building may be delayed, however, on-site crews will assist visitors.

There will be a complete road closure at 1 MacDonald Square from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Tuesday, April 30 and Wednesday, May 1.

 

Any intermittent traffic stoppages/control will be conducted under the safe supervision of the Wellington County OPP Service.

Film crews and Township staff aim to minimize inconvenience while ensuring residents, businesses, and staff can still access necessary services during the filming period. We encourage residents to visit the Municipal Office before or after the filming period; however, we acknowledge that some may need to access services, therefore we encourage you to plan your visit accordingly and take into consideration parking limitations. Once you arrive at 1 MacDonald Square, on-site crews will assist your entrance into the Municipal office - we are still open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. regardless of filming.

Thank you for your understanding and support.

For the Adventurous

The natural landscape of Elora, Fergus and surrounding area make playing in the great outdoors a memorable adventure! Whether you enjoy the thrill of tubing down the rapids of the Grand River or zip lining across the gorge; or perhaps the quiet of fly-fishing or boating on Lake Belwood are more your speed. Whatever your pace, we've got your outdoor adventure covered.

Centre Wellington provides over 78 hectares of parkland and open space, active and passive parks, sports fields including baseball, soccer and rugby fields, tennis  and basketball courts, an outdoor skate-board park, splash pads, outdoor skating rinks and an off-leash dog park among other amenities. A privately owned community ball hockey arena run by local business owners further enhances this line-up.

​The majestic Grand River is the centrepiece of our community. Winding its way from tranquil Belwood Lake, past the steep cliffs of the Elora Quarry and on to the dramatic Elora Gorge, there are many ways to experience its power and beauty.

Some of the exciting activities to experience in Centre Wellington's great outdoors:

Belwood Lake Conservation Area offers powerboat and sailboat access. This 12 km-long lake (7.5 miles) offers excellent boating and water-skiing. The Belwood Lake Sailing Club is a small member-managed club operating from a 10 acre site on Belwood Lake.

Get away from it all with punt rides and raft tours on the Grand River in the heart of Elora. With Elora Raft Rides you can choose from bareboat hires you navigate yourself, shared rides with a pilot or custom cruises. Twilight and Moonlight tours also available.

The Grand River offers a beautiful location for canoers and kayakers. With access points all along the river, every skill level has an opportunity to enjoy the beautiful scenery. Adventure seekers can kayak the white waters of the Elora Gorge Conservation Area, while Belwood Lake Conservation Area offers a more relaxed pace.

Elora Paddle Co. offers canoe rentals 7 days a week throughout the summer.

Grand River access points, suggested trips, and river flow levels.

Cycle through the historic streets of Elora and Fergus​, take in views of the Grand River, limestone cliffs and the Gorge.  Set your own speed, take in the rural scenery provided by the Elora Cataract Trail on your way to the small town of Belwood.

Take a minute to stop and savour the local beauty as well as ​culinary delights of your v​ery own customizable picnic, featuring fresh and  locally grown goods.

For self-guided tours and tips on places to see​ drop by the Elora & Fergus Tourism Information Centre. We can provide up  to date information on trails ​and treats to sample along the way.

The Bicycle Tailor offers off-the-shelf, semi-custom and fully-custom bicycles, professional service & repairs, bicycle rentals, and a curated collection of parts and accessories to take you on adventures across the city, off the beaten path, or around the globe.

 

Download full Elora Fergus Trail Map

The spectacular Elora Gorge has welcomed tourists for over 150 years. Its timeless majesty and beauty keep visitors coming back year after year, savouring the views from its steep limestone cliffs, enjoying the tree-lined hiking trails, paddling the rapids or simply soaking their toes. Every season offers a new and wonderful experience.

Just a short stroll from downtown Elora, the Gorge can be viewed from Lover's Leap in Victoria Park. From here you can overlook the merging waters of the Grand and Irvine rivers some 80 feet below. Follow the stone steps leading into the river – a perfect cool down for a hot summer's day. For a longer walk, hop on the Upper Gorge Trailway and enjoy the gorge from many angles.

Downstream the gorge becomes the property of  the Elora Gorge Conservation Area.  This 200 hectare park offers trails, scenic outlooks with stunning views of the river as well as tubing, a splashpad and 300 campsites.

Nothing says "thrill" like zipping 200 feet across a cavernous gorge! And if once isn't enough, you can say it all day long by getting a day pass. Enjoy a bird's eye view of the historic Elora Gorge and enjoy the thrill of your life with One Axe Pursuits' zipline.

Fly-Fishing

The stretch of the Grand River between Fergus and West Montrose, which includes the Elora Gorge, has earned a well-deserved reputation as one of the best brown trout fisheries in North America. Large enough to challenge the best anglers, many options are also available for kids and first-timers.

In Belwood Lake Conservation Area, a fishing pond for kids 13 years of age and under is stocked with rainbow trout and bass. The lake itself is great for pike (trophy size), smallmouth bass and perch. Belwood Lake includes 1km of Grand River access, downstream of the dam, for excellent brown trout fishing.

Downstream, the Elora Gorge Conservation Area also offers lots of great fly-fishing spots.

Fly-fishing is for anyone, any age. Let our local outfitters guide you to through the world of Fly Fishing whatever your experience level:

Ice Fishing

Belwood Lake is excellent for perch and northern pike. Check the Grand River Conservation Authority's Newsroom for winter conditions updates.

Fishing License

Fishing licences can be obtained through the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources.

When is it not time for a good game of golf?  The picturesque golf courses in and around Elora and Fergus offer you the chance to explore our abundant countryside. Enjoy the great outdoors, get some exercise and spend time with friends. Even if your swing is not up to par, golfing in Elora and Fergus will provide an experience that will leave your vacation bragging rights intact.

Area Golf Courses:

Fergus Golf Club

Fergus Golf Club is located just outside Fergus among rolling hills and farmers' fields. The Club (formerly Fairview and Belwood Lake clubs) offers 27 holes for all skill levels. With a layout catering to all golfers, it provides an ideal backdrop for tournaments, business outings, or a game of golf with friends and family.

Wild Winds Golf Club

Wild Winds Golf Club is situated on one of the highest points in Wellington County. Wildwinds is an 18 hole golf course on a beautiful piece of country property. Set away from traffic, Wildwinds awaits the golf enthusiast who cherishes country settings, good friendship and challenging golf.

Ariss Valley Golf Club 

Nestled in the amazing vistas of Ariss Valley are 27 holes of beautiful, yet challenging golf. Ariss Valley Golf Club is truly a journey through wooded landscapes, island greens and a valley creek that meanders through several holes. A must-play Ontario golf course!

Guelph Lakes Golf and Country Club

Situated an easy drive just south of Fergus, Guelph Lakes Golf and Country Club is an award winning, 18 hole championship course.

 The waters of the Grand River not only sustain us, they  entertains us. Part of the Grand River Conservation Authority, these parks provide endless year-round activities for residents and visitors alike.  Whether you're a family of thrill seekers, tweens, tiny tots or a blend of all tastes, these parks offer something for everyone to enjoy.

Belwood Lake Conservation Area

The Belwood Lake Conservation Area owes its existence to the construction of the Shand Dam. Built in 1942 to protect the Fergus and Elora communities from the spring surges of the Grand River, the upper walkway of the dam forms part of the historic Elora Cataract Trailway offering impressive views of the lake and surrounding area. Families can fish, hike or picnic above or below the dam. Teach the little ones to fish in the well stocked kids' fishing pond or watch them swim in the cool, spring fed quarry with a beach. Explore the lake itself by renting a boat or kayak and let the gentle rhythm of the water accompany your discoveries. Open year-round.

Elora Gorge Conservation Area

The Elora Gorge Conservation Area is one of the most beautiful and spectacular natural areas in the Grand River valley. The Grand River rushes through the gorge, which has 70ft high cliffs. Riverside trails and scenic overlooks provide hikers with stunning views of the water far below where kayakers and tubers make their way through the rapids. Rent your tubing gear on site, hop on the shuttle bus and let the Grand River carry you downstream on a ride you'll not soon forget. For the less adventurous, the park is also home to a kids' splashpad and ample fishing spots. The Elora Gorge Conservation Area has over 300 campsites in forested and grassy areas suitable for everything from tents to RVs. Open May – October.

Elora Quarry Conservation Area

The eerie beauty of the Elora Quarry Conservation Area merits a visit in itself. Encircled by sheer cliffs up to 40 feet high, the "old swimming hole" is the central attraction. The Grand River flows past along the south side of the park offering more places to drop a line along with great shaded picnic areas and trails. A popular backdrop for Hollywood movies, the quarry has also hosted spectacular summer concerts. Open June to Labour Day.

Elora and Fergus boast a long history in the equine industry. There are many options for horseback adventures. Be sure to call ahead.

Devonshire Stables 

Horseback riding, horse breeders and dealers. Call 519.787.9310

Glenarden Farms 

Glenarden Farms is offering boarding, lessons, training, eventing and dressage. Quality horses available for part board. Train with Philippa, an Advanced Level Event Rider, or Jay an FEI "I" International Cross Country Course Designer at a 3 Star level.

Kestavalon Farm 

Safe and fun English riding lessons, carriage driving lessons, and therapeutic lessons. Certified instructor in all 3 areas. Summer camps are available. Call 519.498.1431.

Lookout Farm

Lookout Farm is an equestrian facility offering boarding, training, lessons and sales.

Riverview Stable

Riverview Stable is offering full service board, lessons, training and game-ready treatments for your horse. Over 30 years experience.

Oakesmuir Farm 

Oakesmuir Farm is the world's first hypo-allergenic riding facility featuring Bashkir Curly Horses. Curly horses are gentle and great to work with for any age. Ride indoors year-round.

Travis Hall Equestrian Centre 

Dave and Judy Johnson take special pride and joy in providing their stable with a safe, fun and friendly atmosphere. Whether you are a beginner rider, or an advanced competitor, Travis Hall Equestrian Centre has something for you.

Willow Wood Stables

Specializing in beginners and adult Lessons. Boarding, day camps, and training are also available.  Call 519.787.9384.

Off to the Races

Get into the action at Grand River Raceway and Elements Casino Slots. Located on Wellington County Rd 18 in Elora, Grand River Raceway features live racing from June to October.
 

Elora and Fergus are home to some spectacular vistas. From cliff edges to farmers' fields, surging waters to heritage architecture. Experience the dramatic colours, scents and sounds of our great outdoors by pausing awhile at one of our scenic lookout points.

When the hot summer weather arrives, cool off at one of our natural or man-made watering holes.

Swimming

Cool off in an outdoor swimming hole at the Elora Quarry or in Belwood Lake, or try tubing down the Grand River.

If you prefer a pool, then come to the Centre Wellington Sportsplex.

Splash Pads

 Young ones will enjoy one of our splash pads located in Elora and Fergus

The Township of Centre Wellington has lots of trailways to spend an afternoon walking, running or cycling on. It's a great way to travel and see the picturesque countryside.

Here are a few to choose from:

Trestle Bridge Trail

 Trestle Bridge Trail 

Centre Wellington Community Sportsplex

An old farm hardwood bush trail also used as a campground.

Elora Cataract Trail

Elora Cataract Trail is located along the former Credit Valley Railway line. This trail totals 47 km touching historic trail links parks, watersheds and communities along its route. From Fergus the trail runs along the top of Shand Dam to beautiful Belwood Lake Conservation area. The Elora-Fergus loop of this trailway offers a relaxed and varied 9k hike or bike through open farmland and picturesque pathways with spectacular views of the Grand River. This trail also links both towns to the majestic Wellington County Museum and Archives

Elora's Upper Gorge Trailway

Elora's Upper Gorg​e Trailway system offers visitors a self-guided historic tour of the gorge. Follow it through tree-lined streets and along cliff-tops. Discover spectacular views, hidden beaches and historic ruins all within a stone's throw of the village.

Discover Downtown Fergus

The historic Elora Cataract Trailway zig-zags its way across the north end of Fergus. Download this Discover Downtown Fergus guide to explore the charm and majesty of picturesque downtown Fergus. Shop, dine, explore and rest, then hop back on the trail and continue on your journey.

Building on the success of the Elora Cataract Trail, the Township has created a Trails Master Plan which explores the trails and open spaces in the township and their uses.

 

Download full Elora Fergus Trail Map

Enjoy a classic inner tube adventure of a life time while savouring the scenery and wonder of the cliffs of the Elora Gorge at the Conservation Area.

Experience the great outdoors this winter in Elora and Fergus. Whether you want to pluck a pike out of a lake, ski through the forest on a snowy day, skate like a pro or blaze a trail, we're living proof fun can be had whatever the weather!

Cross Country Skiing

The Belwood Lake Conservation Area feature a network of cross-country and snowshoe trails along with winter hiking. Please bring own equipment, no rentals provided on-site. 

Ice Fishing

Belwood Lake is excellent for perch and northern pike. Check the Grand River Conservation Authority's Newsroom for winter conditions updates.

Snowmobiling

The Fergus Elora Belwood Snowmobile Club maintains 150 km of trails that form the 494 km trail network of the South Grey Area. Enjoy lunch, shelter and great company at their heated clubhouse.

Snowshoeing

Enjoy the great winter site at Wellington County Museum and Archives. Explore the museum grounds and trails by snowshoe - bring your own or rent onsite. It's the perfect winter outdoor activity for the whole family.

Skating

When the winter winds come, we don't stay inside, we build outdoor skating rinks! 

Elora & Fergus Tourism Information Centre
10 East Mill St, Elora
Ontario, Canada, N0B 1S0
Phone: 519.846.9691 x382
Email Us

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