Goderich
Goderich is a small coastal town overlooking Lake Huron, known for its gorgeous turquoise shorelines and historic downtown district. The town’s largest industry has long been salt mining, after the first mines were opened in 1867.
Visitors to Goderich will find a walkable town centre and a variety of beaches such as St. Christopher’s Beach or the ever-popular Goderich Main Beach, along with museums, galleries and family restaurants.
Nature lovers will enjoy the nearby Morris Tract Provincial Nature Reserve, a 58-hectare forest with steep valleys and fertile river bottom along the Maitland River.
Where is Goderich?
Goderich is located on the eastern shores of Lake Huron near the mouth of the Maitland River in Huron County.
It is located just a short drive from Bayfield on the Bluewater Highway (Highway 21), approximately 74 kilometres from Stratford and just over 200 kilometres from Toronto. While the town itself is highly walkable, the surrounding region is most easily explored by car with limited bus service available.
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Things to do in Goderich
Celebrate Celtic culture
Held over three days every August, the Celtic Roots Festival celebrates traditional Celtic crafts, music and dance with workshops, performances and traditional food and drink.
Enjoy fish and chips
Take a stroll down to the harbour and get an order of fresh fish and chips at The Old Saltie, a local spot named for the town’s salt mine.
Stroll along the boardwalk
The Goderich Waterfront Boardwalk is a 1.5-kilometre long scenic lakeshore boardwalk alongside the water’s edge.
Visit a jail museum
Located in downtown Goderich, The Huron Historic Gaol, which operated from 1841 to the 1970s, offers guided tours and “Behind the Bars” historical re-enactments.
Watch the sunset over the lake
Thanks to its west-facing position, the Goderich main beach is an ideal place to catch a sunset over Lake Huron. Bring a beach chair and blanket and settle in for a spectacular show.
Cross a historic bridge
Trace Goderich’s railway past by walking across the Menesetung Bridge. Completed in 1907, the bridge extends over the Maitland River by the old Goderich Salt Mine and harbour.
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Last updated: February 16, 2024