Kayaking in North Georgia

Those who love kayaking and standup paddleboarding (SUP) will want to know where they can go kayaking in North Georgia while staying here. With the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains as a backdrop, there are several inviting lakes, waterways and rivers to explore. If you don't have your gear with you, you may be able to rent it at one of these spots.

There are a plethora of choices when it comes to paddling North Georgia, as calm lakes and exciting whitewater rapids are all part of the natural abundance offered to those who kayak and paddle. Many of the best experiences are right in Ellijay.
 

Kayaking in the Vicinity of Ellijay River and Cartecay River

Photo Credit: pickellijay via Instagram 

The two rivers merge to form an exciting adventure for kayaking right in the nearby area. Tubing also makes this an experience for families. You can kayak the Ellijay and Coosawattee rivers for an adventure; guides can take you down the river, which has some whitewater areas. The Ellijay River also has a "lazy river" that can be right for beginners. Find out more at Ellijay River Outfitters or the Cartecay River Experience in Ellijay. The Cartecay River is fine for teens and older; it has Class II rapids and is best for those with kayaking experience, as it flows quite fast at points.
 

Fort Mountain State Park

Photo Credit: jenellett via Instagram

Located in Chatsworth on Highway 52 in the Cohutta Wilderness, this area is fine for SUP and kayaking and offers some beautiful lakeside scenery as well as meandering water trails. Relax as you paddle its scenic waterways.
 

Kayaking Somewhat Further Away Chattooga River 

Photo Credit: austinparrish20 via Instagram

Great for paddlers of all skill levels as well as SUP enthusiasts, the Chattooga River has myriad spots that offer a variety of challenges. Instruction is offered. Southeastern Expeditions can tell you more about the experience for your level of kayaking. Class-IV rapids can be part of a skilled kayaking experience here.

 

Some Outfitters for Touring

If you are not bringing your own kayak or SUP and wish to take a tour of the water, there are several outfitters that do kayak and whitewater rafting trips. Some offer more than kayaking; other trips may be arranged as well. The Nantahala Outdoor Center offers whitewater rafting tours as well as paddleboards and kayaks at the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area; Johnson's Ferry and Powers Island are where you can find them. Wildwater Limited offers lake kayak and SUP tours as well as whitewater rafting and zipline canopy tours. Appalachian Outfitters Tubing, as well as kayaking and canoeing, is offered for exploration of the beautiful Northern Georgia rivers.

These are just a few of the places to go for exciting and inspiring kayaking in North Georgia, you can find many others that are peaceful and ideal for any kayaker. Breathtaking scenery, adventure and a host of wildlife viewing opportunities are part of a kayak experience in our area. Whether you are a beginner or able to shoot the Class-V rapids, rafting or paddling in Northern Georgia will be an adventure that you want to include in your stay. The chance to get up close in nature, in peaceful and tranquil surroundings is a unique experience. Those who love adventure will opt for the more adrenaline-enhanced rapids, but whichever you choose, find a lake, river or waterway that you love and get out on the water. It will make your vacation a true vacation, filled with fresh air and the relaxation of flowing water.