Grand River

Ohio’s 11th longest river measures 103 miles. Its headwaters begin in southeast Geauga County and flow gently northward across Trumbull County through rich forests and lush lowlands. The river then takes a sharp westerly turn in northern Ashtabula County where it rushes by steep shale gorges on its way to Fairport Harbor in Lake County where it enters Lake Erie’s central basin. Map

A favorite among paddlers, the Grand River passes under some of Ashtabula’s cherished and historic covered bridges. In addition to the attractive scenery, the Grand River supports 87 species of fish and offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

A 33-mile portion of the river from the Ohio Route 322 bridge in Ashtabula County downstream to the Harpersfield covered bridge is designated as a State Scenic River. The 23-mile portion of river between the Harpersfield covered bridge downstream to the railroad bridge south of Painesville also is designated a State Wild River.

River flows average 1,047 feet cubic feet per second and the average gradient measures 5.3 feet per mile. There is one dam located along the Grand River in Trumbull County at Lake Estabrook, south of Middlefield, and paddlers must portage around either side of the dam.

There are various pull-off roadside parking areas and six canoe launching ramps. Four of these canoe ramps are in Ashtabula County and two are located in Lake County. Canoe rentals also are available at three locations along the river in Ashtabula County.

The area around Fairport Harbor where the Grand River empties into Lake Erie is popular among anglers pursing steelhead trout. Boaters have direct access to Lake Erie and can enjoy dock space and launching facilities in Fairport Harbor. Two marinas also service boaters in Fairport Harbor.

As with a number of Ohio’s state scenic and wild rivers, positive conservation actions are needed to help protect these valuable waterway, wildlife and plant resources. The Grand River has benefited from the commitment and actions shared among a number of conservation partners. Wisely conserving Ohio’s waterway resources, such as the Grand River, ensures their enjoyment for future generations of Ohioans.