In August 2013, a friend a I paddled 130 miles of the Etowah River.
Day 1 of my first aquatramp provided me with lessons I will never forget… Within the first five miles here are some of the things that happened
-Our canoe cracked all the way down the middle
-We had to walk 3 of those miles through class 3 rapids next to our boat
-I lost my prescription glasses
-We discovered that our dry sacks were water resistant
-Our five gallon buckets weren’t sealed properly
-Even summer nights in GA can be cold when everything you own is wet
It was hilarious and exciting. Within those few hours we laughed, yelled, cursed, and
thanked God that we made it to the campground.
Day 1- Mile 7 to 12,… We were dropped off with new canoe at mile 39…Aside from what was listed above, we got dropped off with our new boat at mile 39 and slept at Mountain Stewards Launch Site. We met an oil tycoon and hiked through a wine vineyard.
Day 2- Mile 39 to 58… Easy day, we really got our stride down. Learned the importance of paddling as a unit. Slept at Woodhaven Bend, which is a boat ramp/pavilion for a gated community.
Day 3- Mile 58 to 98.6… Most interesting day by far. We were woken up rather abruptly by a man and his dog. We were informed that if we did not leave we would be arrested for trespassing…so we left…quickly. Found the lovable inflatable tube you see above, which we named NEMO. We slept at Sweetwater Campground. Incidentally, we slept on top of NEMO underneath a picnic table, with my tarp setup above us. It was pouring outside and the trees were too covered with ants for us to setup our hammocks.
Day 4- Mile 98 to 114… The most grueling paddling I have ever experienced: 16 miles across Lake Allatoona. Bartow Campground was where we found refuge. They have excellent campground facilities, a beautiful view of the Dam, and a rope swing. We were also experience some trail-magic from a family who gave us extra drinks they brought with them, some candles, and wonderful conversation.
Day 5- Mile 114 to 135… After getting portaged around the dam (it took several requests and generous volunteers), which I would suggest preparing to have before hand, we had a great day of paddling and the view was beautiful. Climbed an old railroad bridge that crossed the river, for which we had the police called on us. Apparently, some onlookers thought we were attempting to commit suicide. That night, we slept in the backyard of a house that was For Rent.
Day 6- Mile 135 to 164… We made it to the end. I’d like to include a quote from the last page of my journal: “DONE! Paddled close to 140 miles… long paddle but did it, loved sleeping on the ground last night, loved the water…can’t wait to get back.”
If you want to see more pictures or the video montage check out the following link:
http://jearsblog.wordpress.com/trips/my-trips/etowah-river-130-miles/
