A Guide to Rockwood Conservation Area, Ontario

Rockwood Conservation Area is a Grand River Park in Rockwood, Ontario. I was stunned by how beautiful the park is and by how much it has to offer. There are several things to see and do in Rockwood Park, making it a great place to visit in Ontario. I hope you enjoy my guide to Rockwood Conservation Area!

HOW TO GET THERE

Rockwood is just a short drive north from the Greater Toronto Area. The closest major city is Guelph, Ontario. The entrance to Rockwood Conservation Area is found on Falls Street, just off of Highway 7.

WHAT TO DO

Hiking Trails

There are two hiking trails in Rockwood Conservation Area – the Pothole Trail and the Cedar Ridge Trail. The trails run along the Eramosa River, and although they aren’t very long, the views are stunning!

Lookouts

There are two lookout points on the hiking trails that you absolutely must stop at. The views overlooking the forest and Eramosa River are amazing!

Caves

At one end of the Cedar Ridge Trail, you’ll find one of Rockwood’s attractions – natural caves.

NOTE: The caves are closed from October 16 to March 31 to protect bats during their hibernation.

Mill Ruins

Head back along the Cedar Ridge Trail and you will reach a turn-off for the Pothole Trail. You will see a bridge crossing over a dam and the ruins of the Harris & Co. Rockwood Woolen Mill on the other side of the bridge. The original woolen mill was built from wood in 1867 and burned down in 1880. It was rebuilt in 1884, but this time from stone. The mill produced vast amounts of Canadian army blankets during WWI. Doors to the mill were closed in 1931 due to the Great Depression.

Beach

Continue along the Pothole Trail to reach Rockwood Park’s beach. This beach is very popular in the summer – it’s a great place to swim, canoe, kayak, and paddleboard.

Water Activities

Although motorized watercraft are prohibited in Rockwood Conservation Area, you can bring your own canoe, kayak, or paddleboard. Set off from the beach and paddle along the beautiful river!