Sat, May 25 2013 - Paddle the Historic Etowah near Atlanta (View Original Event Details)
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I personally had one of the most beautiful days I have ever had on the Etowah near Euharlee , GA. We went 10 miles from 10:30 in the morning after setting up a leisurely shuttle, to just after 3:00pm. The skies were the most brilliant blue we could imagine. The temp was high 70's with low humidity to boot. The water was up from normal flows but we found ways to "slow down", enjoy the speed of the river and had a couple of incredible stops. The first was Ashpole Creek, just downstream from the historical Civil War Era Hardin Bridge,which we paddled up to find a spring fed, crystal clear pond that rivals anything Florida has to offer named Gilliam Springs. This will become a regular sidestop from now on. It was magical. The second was a river stop at Island Ford, on the Etowah, not the everyday Island Ford on the Chattahoochee. This Island gave us a "butt" break and briefing for our take-out at Highway 411 a few miles downriver. We also encountered a very free and very beautiful Bald Eagle, as well as numerous huge Herons, Painted Turtles on the logs, Bridge Swallows, large jumping fish and a Goose couple that was shepherding their three young up a nearly vertical creek bank. We had never seen geese climbing cliffs!
After the paddle, 11 of us had a beautiful BBQ experience at Johnny Mitchell's Smokehouse in Euharlee and got a little local flavor from the owner. Great Place. Thanks to ALL who were on this trip for your kindness, happiness, helpfulness and easy-going pace on the river. We found new friends and enjoyed old friends, we hope to see everybody again sometime soon on the water. The take-out was a challenge and just another part of the story of a great, great day. Sharon H, Charlie C and Bobby Marie
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