Lower Chestatee River Day Paddle

Join us for a guided paddle on the Lower Chestatee River, one of the most scenic and accessible moving-water rivers in North Georgia. Flowing out of the southern Appalachian foothills near Dahlonega, the Chestatee River winds through a landscape shaped by mountain hydrology, historic gold mining activity, and generations of human interaction with the watershed. The name “Chestatee” comes from a Cherokee phrase often translated as “place of lights” or “pine torch place,” referencing traditional nighttime hunting practices once carried out along the riverbanks.

This section of the river offers a mix of gentle current, shallow shoals, rock outcrops, and forested corridors that make it ideal for beginner paddlers looking to transition from flatwater into beginner moving-water environments. As we move downstream, participants will experience how current shapes the river corridor, influences habitat, and creates constantly changing conditions for both wildlife and recreation. The Chestatee River supports a wide range of aquatic species and ultimately feeds into the Chattahoochee River through Lake Lanier.

This day paddle is catered towards newer/inexperienced paddlers who still want to experience the beauty of North GA Rivers without rapids or other typical hazards of the region. We’ll move at a relaxed pace with instruction and support provided throughout the trip, along with interpretation focused on river ecology, watershed processes, and the cultural history of North Georgia’s mountain rivers.

Schedule & Activities

Meeting Location: 5019 S. Chestatee Street, Dahlonega, GA 30533. Note that this is our takeout, we want to park our cars here so we can leave after getting off the water. We will shuttle together to the beginning of our trip after everyone checks in. 

Please arrive by 8:45a to allow time for check-in and orientation. We will then ride a shuttle at 9am to Chestatee River Adventures for our trip brief and gear organization before launching into the water. Throughout the trip we will stop periodically for hydration, regrouping, and interpretation focused on river ecology, local history, and moving-water paddling techniques. Participants will experience mild current, beginner shoals, and changing river features while building confidence and comfort on flowing water.

Plan Your Trip

Arrival Time:

Please arrive 15 minutes early to allow time for unloading boats, gear organization, and parking.

What Should I Pack:

Kayak Rentals are available for $50. Rental includes a 1-passenger kayak, PFD, and Paddle. 

Outside of rentals, all participants should bring 1–2 liters of water; BYO Lunch and snacks; Quick-dry clothing; Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen); Closed-toe water shoes or sandals with heel strap; Waterproof bag for personal items; medicine and other hygiene items to stay comfortable outside for 4+ hours. 

How Long Is the Paddle?

Approximately 5–6 miles downstream on beginner moving water. Actual trip time is generally around 2.5–3.5 hours on the river depending on water levels and group pace.

Accessibility & Terrain: 

This is a beginner-friendly moving-water paddle with riverbank launches and uneven natural terrain. Participants should be comfortable entering and exiting a kayak, sitting for extended periods, and paddling through mild current and Class I shoals. Conditions may include slippery rocks, shallow riffles, changing water levels, and limited access to restrooms once on the river.

https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/v/gc2026waiver

Every participant will be required to fill out completely and sign, our online waiver. The waiver link will be included in your big tickets confirmation email as well as the 2 weeks out trips detailed email. If a paddling trip, all participants must have basic paddling skills, wear a PFD/Life vest, and be capable of self-rescue in the water. No more than 2 children under the age of 12 per adult guardian. While Georgia Conservancy staff and other Outfitters may assist on some trips and be available with medical and/or First Aid training (those individuals will be identified), we cannot personally ensure the safety of all participants. Unlike a commercial trip in which paid guides to direct you through each bend of the river or lead you into the wilderness, Georgia Conservancy trips, whether a paddle, adventure, or service trip, are all designed to be your adventure, and as such, you are responsible for your own safety. All participants are assuming risks (some of which are outlined in our liability waiver) while participating in a Georgia Conservancy Stewardship Trip.

1.) Cancellation/Refund Policy: Georgia Conservancy trips are non-transferable and are hosted rain or shine. The Georgia Conservancy reserves the right to cancel or shorten any trip before departure as well as change the itinerary. If you have any questions about the trip price and what the payment includes, please contact Shaundon Moore (smoore@gaconservancy.org) before you register.

Notification Prior to the Trip Refund Policy

• 20 days or more Full refund using the original method of payment
• 8 to 19 days Refund total paid less $10 processing fee*
• 4 to 7 days Refund 50% of total paid*
• 3 days & under No refund
• * We cannot guarantee the refund in the original method of payment and refunds may be made by check.

If a trip is canceled and not rescheduled by Georgia Conservancy, then all participants will receive a full refund using the original method of payment.

If a trip is canceled and then rescheduled, each participant may receive a full refund if they request cancellation within 1 week of being notified of the new trip date.

2.) Acceptable Behavior and Policies for Participants (Alcohol, Drugs, Tobacco): As part of our mission to provide healthy experiences we have several policies for behavior on trips. All illegal substances are prohibited. There’s one easy way to wreck your trip (and your friends’) with the Georgia Conservancy: overconsumption of alcohol. Alcohol can pose a serious risk to your health and others when consumed during a trip and will dehydrate you. That being said participants 21 years of age or older ARE welcome to B.Y.O.B. (Bring your own beverages) and enjoy them on GAC trips if used in a responsible manner that does not jeopardize the safety of yourself and others. If your behavior negatively impacts other participants that behavior will not be tolerated. Please be considerate of smoking around others.

3.) Essential Eligibility Criteria (EEC): All water-based programming participants (including all paddlesport programs) must acknowledge the ability to perform the following EEC: -Breathe independently (i.e. not require medical devices to sustain breathing) -Independently maintain sealed airway passages while under water -Independently hold head upright without head / neck support -Manage personal care independently or with assistance of a companion -Manage personal mobility independently or with a reasonable amount of assistance -Follow instructions and effectively communicate independently or with the assistance of a companion -Paddlesports program participants must also acknowledge the ability to perform the following EEC: -Independently turn from face-down to face-up and remain floating face-up while wearing a properly fitted life jacket -Get in / out of a paddle craft independently or with a reasonable amount of assistance -Independently get out from under a capsized paddlecraft -Re-enter the paddlecraft following deep water capsize independently or with a reasonable amount of assistance -Maintain a safe body position while attempting skills, activities, and rescues listed in the appropriate course outline, and have the --ability to recognize and identify to others when such efforts would be unsafe given your personal situation.

4.) Discrimination and Harassment Policy: No harassment of any kind will be tolerated by any participants or staff during any Georgia Conservancy event. It is your responsibility to report any misconduct to the staff or other Georgia Conservancy Authorities. 

5.) LNT/Recycling: The Georgia Conservancy strives to adhere to Leave No Trace (LNT) Guidelines for all trips/events. We provide recycling options for every trip as well so please ask us before you throw away any recyclables in the wrong container.

Participants are responsible for any rental gear they receive during a trip. If you are unfamiliar with the set-up or correct function of the gear it is your responsibility to seek out a conservancy staff member to show you. We love talking gear so don’t be afraid to ask questions!