Coosawattee River in Georgia

by  Gigmaster

A self-supported trip created by Gigmaster

Trip Overview

My son, grandaughter, his girlfriend, and myself all did the New Echota River Alliance "Paddle, Peddle, and Pickin" run on the Coosawattie River. My son used my Advanced Elements Convertible Inflatable Kayak, and I used my Sevylor Rio Inflatable. The run is 7 miles, from the launch site at the railroad trestle below the Re-Regulation dam at Carters Lake, to Ralston's Farm on Hwy 136.

The launch was easy, and there were probably 100+ boats making the run. I started out in the middle of the pack, but I was easily able to outdistance most of them. My son, and I wound up in the front, so we took our time and enjoyed the incredible beautiful scenery on the river.

They had let some water through the dam so the river was running about 2 or 3 knots. Everything was smooth up the the 4-mile marker, where there were two strainers (fallen tress) completely across the river, and they were staggered, with a stump in the middle. I was able to easily slalom between them, but my son got the 15' Convertible stuck on the tree, but was able to push off and get free (I love these inflatables). Several other yaks wiped out on this obstacle, but everyone made it through OK, as far as I know.

From there, it was just a pleasant run to the takeout, where I played music until about 9:30 PM, and then we camped. Next morning, some of the more adventurous re-entered the river for the 17-mile run to the next take-out.

This is a great, fairly easy run. For more information, go to NERA.com

Accommodations:

Port-o-lets, water fountain, picnic tables, grills, well-lit, and great place for night fishing.

Fees:

The only fee is a Fishing License if you plan to fish.

Directions:

From Chatsworth, take Hwy 411S. to Hwy 136 in Ramhurst, Ga. (Ralston's Corner. Turn left and go to the next left turn (Old Federal Hwy). Follow Old Federal Rd. until you cross the one-lane bridge over the river, then turn at the next brown sign that says 'Re-regulation Dam'. The launch site is right under the railroad trestle bridge.

Trip Details

  • Trip Duration: Day Trip
  • Sport/Activity: Kayaking, Canoeing
  • Skill Level: Intermediate
  • Water Type: River/Creek (Up to Class II)

Trip Location