If there’s one quintessentially Canadian experience that combines rich history, natural beauty, and culinary delight, it has to be a maple syrup farm tour. Even if there is no snow.
At Elliott Tree Farm in Erin, Ontario, visitors are treated to a maple syrup journey that celebrates a cherished Canadian tradition. Every weekend from April to October, the farm opens its gates to curious explorers eager to learn how this liquid gold is crafted. The tour offers a sweet mix of history, culture, and, of course, flavour.
The adventure begins with a guided one-hour walk through the farm’s sugarbush trails. Towering maple trees, some over 200 years old, form the backdrop to intriguing tales shared by expert guides. You’ll learn about the discovery of maple syrup by Indigenous peoples, the evolution of its production, and the art of crafting this natural sweetener. The trail also passes through the farm’s firewood shed and traditional wood-fired sugar shack, providing a glimpse into the hard work and dedication behind every drop of syrup.
Next, visitors step into the Maple Syrup Museum of Ontario, a treasure trove of artifacts chronicling the history of maple syrup from its Indigenous roots to modern processing techniques. The exhibits offer a fascinating look at the tools and methods that have changed over the centuries, yet honour the timeless craft of syrup making.
But no visit is complete without indulging in the farm’s signature maple tasting. Here, you can savour different grades of award-winning pure maple syrup—Golden, Amber, and Dark—alongside fresh maple sugar and toffee on snow. This tasting flight is elevated with a warm waffle drizzled with your syrup of choice, paired perfectly with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. It’s a sensory delight that leaves visitors with a newfound appreciation for this Canadian staple.
Practical tips for visitors include dressing appropriately for a farm setting with sturdy footwear and arriving 15 minutes before your tour begins. Pets are welcome on a leash, making this an outing the whole family can enjoy. And for those who can’t get enough, the Heritage Barn offers a variety of maple products and locally sourced gifts for purchase.
Elliott Tree Farm’s maple tours are more than an educational experience—they’re a celebration of heritage, nature, and community. Whether you’re a local resident or visiting Ontario, this is a must-see destination that invites you to taste and explore your way through a uniquely Canadian tradition.
References:
2025 Weekend Maple Sugarbush Experience Tour and Tasting Tickets, Multiple Dates | Eventbrite
