Water Warriors Paddle Trip & Science Program

Discover all the wonders of the Chattahoochee River! Created for 9th through 12th graders, this Water Warriors event will encompass a paddling experience and a science program. Chattahoochee Riverkeeper’s (CRK) Technical Programs Director Jess Sterling will conduct a water testing demo and review CRK’s efforts to improve water quality in the river over the last 29 years.

We will paddle from Powers Island to Paces Mill within the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. This section has some Class I rapids and fun wave trains. We will meet at Paces Mill at 9 a.m. and shuttle up to Powers Island via Nantahala Outdoor Center’s shuttle bus. Kayak instruction and safety protocols are reviewed prior to our trip. Experienced safety boaters will be available to assist all paddlers.

The registration cost is $15 per participant and includes kayak rental and a boxed lunch. This program is intended for 9th through 12th grade students. While we can permit older students, we cannot accept students below 9th grade. Advance registration is required due to a limited capacity.

For students driving their own cars, please plan to arrive at Paces Mill by 8:30 a.m. to check in. There is a $5 parking fee at this location. Parents/guardians dropping off youth, please arrive no later than 8:30 a.m. and plan to pick up your youth by 1:30 p.m.

If your vehicle will remain at Paces Mill, be prepared to purchase a $5 CRNRA parking pass at the kiosk (or in advance at https://www.nps.gov/chat/planyourvisit/fees.htm)

All participants must be able to swim and get in and out of a kayak easily (i.e. those with knee or back injuries may have difficulty). Paddling uses your core muscles, arms, and shoulders. Anyone with injuries in these areas may have difficulty. Please consult your physician if you are concerned about participating.