Elora Gorge Day Trip from Toronto by Bus: Cliffs, Tubing & Village
Experience the dramatic limestone cliffs and pristine waters of the Grand River.
This summer, climb aboard Parkbus for an immersive day trip to Elora Gorge Conservation Area—one of Ontario's most scenic and accessible natural wonders. Discover the historic village of Elora, explore limestone cliffs carved by centuries of flowing water, and enjoy recreational activities along the Grand River.
Surrounded by 22-meter high limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters, this journey combines natural beauty, recreational fun, and charming small-town exploration. You'll have opportunities for swimming, tubing, hiking, and exploring the quaint shops and cafes of Elora village.Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a perfect blend of both, Elora Gorge offers something for everyone in a stunning natural setting.
What's waiting for you
- The clifftop trail. A two-kilometre rim walk with safety barriers and overlooks where you can stand at the edge and watch tubers bob through the rapids 22 metres below. Easy enough to do in flip-flops, dramatic enough to feel earned.
- Tubing the Grand. From late June through early September (water levels permitting), you can rent a tube and float a stretch of genuine whitewater past the cliffs. Reserve ahead, because everyone else figured this out too.
- The town of Elora. A ten-minute walk from the conservation area gates and arguably the prettiest village in Ontario. Nineteenth-century limestone storefronts, the restored Elora Mill perched over a waterfall, the Lost and Found Café, the Elora Bread Trading Co. (get there early or get nothing), and Scoop for ice cream that does not mess around.
- The fossils. Look closely at the cliff walls and you're looking at the remains of an ancient reef. This is the part of the trip you tell people about later and they assume you made up.
- Doing absolutely nothing. A picnic blanket, a paperback, the sound of moving water, and zero responsibilities until 4 p.m. We will not judge you for this. Frankly we encourage it.
Tickets:
- Regular: $73.00
- Student: $66.00
- Child (12 and under): $36.50
- Senior (60+): $66.00
Pickup Locations
34 Asquith Avenue
Pick up at 34 Asquith Ave, just north of the Yonge and Bloor Subway stop. We recommend getting there 15 minutes early to make sure you have enough time for the bus.
Departure Time
8:15 AM
Return Time
4:30 PM
Town of Elora (LCBO parking)
Town of Elora is perched on the edge of a spectacular gorge and along the banks of the Grand River. Restaurants, cafes, art galleries and boutiques line the main street. Elora Gorge Conservation Area is located about 30 min away by foot. The bus stops at LCBO parking lot located at 23 Metcalfe St.
Estimated arrival
9:30 AM
Departure
3:10 PM
Elora Gorge
One of our most popular day trip destinations, offering a big variety of activities for all ages. From tubing down the rapids to hiking along the banks of the Grand River, it’s a guaranteed day of fun for everyone.
Estimated arrival
10:00 AM
Departure
3:00 PM
Do I need to pay for park admission?
No, your Parkbus ticket includes your park admission for the day. If you are considering a short visit to the town of Elora but still want to explore the conservation area, we suggest that you first get off at the park since that way you are guaranteed admission. You can then leave and hike over to the nearby town.
Can I go tubing at Elora Gorge?
Yes, tubing is one of the most popular activities at Elora Gorge Conservation Area. Tubing is available at Elora from late June to September 1st, and is often dependant on the water level of Grand River. Tubes must be reseved in advance here .
Are there any places to buy food?
There are no places to buy any food/drink once inside Elora Gorge conservation area, however the town of Elora is walking distance away and offers plenty of food options. If you plan on spending most of your day at the park, we recommend packing your own lunch and water for the day.
Can I bring pets on the bus?
Unfortunately pets are not allowed on this route (unless they are certified service animals)
Is there bathroom on board? Do you make a stop on the way?
There are no bathrooms on board the school buses we use for day trips. Depending on the duration of the trip, we may offer a 10-15 minute break stop on the way.
Is this a guided trip?
No, this is not a group trip, and what you do once you get off the bus is completely up to you. Please make sure to review all park information prior to your trip and keep track of time so that you don’t miss the return bus.
For more information please visit the Grand River Conservation Authority website
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