Paddle Georgia

[Jaytee]

Anyone done this week-long trip before? We're VERY interested but have some questions about the experience, typical north Georgia weather in June, quality of food and beverage offerings, general make up of the crowd.

Happy for it to be family oriented, of course, but we don't have kids and also want some good nature experience and maybe a brewski or two around the campfire at night-type deal. Before we commit a week's vacation time to it, I'd love to talk to someone who has done it before.

Respond or email me directly at JCTOLLESON AT G MAIL DOT COM

[bmartin]

I did a 15 year long trip in Athens GA and it was a good trip, but I was more of a rec boater back then. Chatooga is a must if it is running which it ususally is in June, but that area has been in a persistent drought so no telling if it will be there this year then. Plenty of places to get into nature in the N GA mountains. Of course you are close to Ocoee and Nanty. Brewskis can be had in more places in GA than in AR. The climate is pretty much the same as here in June. Since the Atl is so close expect more people on the trails and rivers than around here, but wouldn't say it is crowded on the weekdays. State parks book up early if you are thinking of that style of camping.

[BEubanks]

See the story on CNN.com today. http://www.cnn.com/2009/TRAVEL/getaways ... index.html

[El Dino]

I did a 15 year long trip in Athens GA

hey I'm from Athens, do we know each other?
Jaytee, if you're looking for a mellow "family" float, consider the Chattahoochee (north of ATL of course) or sec. 2 of the Chattooga.

[bmartin]

I didn't know anyone named 'El Dino'. If you were a pharmacy student back then our paths would have crossed or if you went through the Oconee schools and are still in H.S., you may have known one of my kids.

JT - I do not know anyone that has done the organized trip in the link so can't offer any tips there.

[Jaytee]

Yup, it was the CNN story that got us interested in the event. We're childless 40-somethings needing a VACATION that have never before seen the opportunity to do a weeklong point-to-point float that was supported with luggage transport and a meal plan, so this very much intrigued us.

But I've yet to track down anyone who has done it before (I think this is the 5th year of the event). But what the heck, we may register anyway. With the national media coverage and a cap at 300 paddlers, I'd suspect the thing will fill and the price is right!

[druse]

Try this site for more specific information. Usually in June the Ocoee is the mainstay, however the Cartecay near Elijay is a recreational river with canoeing, kayaking, and innertubing.

http://www.riverfacts.com/states/ga.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

[El Dino]

Yeah I actually knew everyone in Athens
UGA Geology '01
Clarke Central '95
So, no, I guess we didn't know each other, bmartin.

[MikeBeebe]

The only thing that I have heard about Paddle Georgia is that it could be very warm and as such, bugs, etc. Might ought to check your expected temps for the trip.

Mike