SAGE Day Paddle: Lower Etowah River

SAGE Day Paddle: Lower Etowah River 

Spend a day on the Lower Etowah River with SAGE (Stewards and Advocates for Georgia’s Environment), Georgia Conservancy’s new community bringing together women who care deeply about protecting our state’s natural resources. This paddle offers a chance to step outside and experience firsthand the natural systems we work to protect.

Our route covers a 6-mile stretch of the Etowah from Hardin Bridge to Neel’s Landing. This section is well known for its calm current, scenic rural landscapes, and unique features like historic Native American fish weirs. It’s a great setting for both new and experienced paddlers, with just enough movement in the water to stay engaging without being technical. 

Rather than a typical recreation outing, this trip is also an opportunity to ground advocacy in place. Time on the water creates space for conversation, reflection, and a deeper understanding of how Georgia’s rivers connect to broader conservation challenges and solutions.  

Schedule & Activities 

Meeting Location: Neel’s Landing - 11 Macedonia Rd, Kingston, GA 30145 

• 10:00 AM Check-in and Van Shuttle at Neel’s Landing 
• 10:40 AM Orientation, Gear check, and Paddle Assignments 
• 11:00 AM Paddle Launch 
• Our paddle will last about 3 hours, with stops for rest, lunch, and interpretation 
• Around 2 PM to 3 PM Take out at Neel’s Landing 
• Around 3:30 PM Program concludes 

*Note: Actual trip time depends on water conditions, but we expect to be out of the water no later than 2:30p even in the slowest flow conditions. 

Plan Your Trip 

Arrival Time: 

Please arrive no later than 10:10 AM at Neel’s Landing so we can check everyone in, organize boats, and begin the shuttle on time. 

What Should I Pack: 

• Bring your own lunch, snacks, and water bottle (1-2 liters). 
• DO NOT WEAR COTTON 
• Wear Athletic or Quick Dry Clothing (if you have swim or watersport specific clothing that’s fine too) 
• Sun protection (e.g. hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) 
• Closed-toe water shoes or sandals with heel strap 
• Waterproof bag for personal items 
• You can also keep a change of clothes in your car 
• Extras as needed/preferred: medicines, a towel, other outdoor comfort items 

How Long Is the Paddle? 

The paddle is approximately 6 miles. 

Accessibility & Terrain: 

Participants should expect limited amenities and should be comfortable managing basic outdoor conditions. This is a beginner-friendly river section, but it still includes mild shoals, fish weirs, and normal paddling fatigue. 

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Shaundon Moore – Stewardship Trips Manager for Georgia Conservancy, at smoore@gaconservancy.org.