one-day
CoMMITTMENT
intermediate
Fitness level
bartow county
Location
What to Expect
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.
The Schedule
Saturday Morning launch:
Meeting point: 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 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 3:30p even in the slowest flow conditions.
Plan your trip
The Details
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 trip is approximately 6 river 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.
Register For This Trip
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