It is one of the best recreational paddle spots in all of Georgia, in my humble opinion. There is amazing scenery throughout its twisting and turning water route. It has got a waterfall, a jumping rock, a once active underground military base, hiking trails, and over 10,000 square foot of wilderness.
If you have paddled with me before, you know which river I speak of…The Etowah River in Dawson Forest. Its a favorite of mine as well as hundreds who have paddled with me in the past. So don’t miss the opportunity to join us on this trip. It is a good river for most all skill levels too.
The entire trip is around 9.5 miles and will take about 4 hours from start to finish. That will include a stop or maybe two. One for sure at the waterfall near the midpoint of this journey. The small stream which forms the waterfall meets the Etowah River. It is only a short walk after you pull the kayaks up on land. But this area provides a good location for lunch/snack/stretch and we spend 30 minutes here goofing around. If you have good shoes you can even climb the waterfall with careful navigation.
On Saturday May 2nd, 2020 at 9:30am we will paddle this awesome section of the Etowah River. There is a spot that makes for a good meeting location. It is called Kelly Bridge Canoe and Kayak Launch and is located at GPS coordinates 34.353689, -84.206241. It is best to use coordinates since it’s more accurate and cell coverage is limited. But if you use an address, its 5600-5998 Kelly Bridge Road Dawsonville, GA.
Just look for a large open, grass parking lot with a circular dirt road. There is a boat ramp on the lower side of the lot. Parking is allowed here for a fee of $3. Park anywhere in the grass, but please keep the lot clean. There is a port-a-potty and change room here. You will likely get wet, so you’ll use the change room.
Even though this is the meeting point, it will be the end location of our kayak trip. I will provide transport in 1 or 2 cars to the starting point of our kayak trip. The kayak starting point is only a short 15 minute drive from here. This way after we finish up on the river, you will have your cars awaiting you and you can change and head home.
Remember to bring some good water shoes, lunch/snacks, beverage and water, change of clothes, and a way to protect electronics from getting wet. Either a zip lock or dry bag works great. You don’t want to lose a phone or expensive items to the water.
If you would like to reserve a kayak, call or text me at (678) 920-3944. Cost for single kayak is $40 and tandem is $65. I also allow anyone to bring their own kayak but will charge $15 if I haul your kayak on my trailer.
I am super excited for upcoming kayak events. We will try to choose different locations and rivers throughout the year. If you like this one, be sure to sign up for my newsletter. (its in the header to the right) And as always… if you have a group of your own that would like to rent please let me know. There are few places we won’t go. Just ask!
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