Powers Island Riverside Park, located in Sandy Springs, Georgia, is one of the most serene and historically significant units within the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area (CRNRA). This park offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and recreational opportunities, making it a beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Below is an extensive exploration of Powers Island Riverside Park, including its history, amenities, and what makes it a popular spot along the Chattahoochee River.

Historical Significance

Powers Island is named after James Power (1790–1870), who established Power’s Ferry in 1835. The ferry connected Sandy Springs to Cobb County across the Chattahoochee River, serving as a vital transportation link for settlers, traders, and travelers. During the Civil War in 1864, Power’s Ferry was used by General William Sherman’s Union Army as they crossed the Chattahoochee River during the Atlanta Campaign. The ferry remained operational until it was replaced by a bridge in 1903.

The area surrounding Powers Island also holds historical significance due to its role in early commerce and industry along the river. Timber companies once owned parts of the land, using it for logging operations that contributed to Atlanta’s growth. Over time, conservation efforts preserved this section of the river corridor, leading to its inclusion in CRNRA when it was established in 1978.

Today, Powers Island Riverside Park serves as a reminder of the region’s rich history while offering modern amenities for recreation and relaxation.

Amenities

Powers Island Riverside Park spans approximately 90 acres and provides a variety of amenities designed to enhance visitors’ experiences:

Trail System

  • Main Trail Loop: The park features a scenic 2.5-mile loop trail that follows the riverbank and climbs through dense forested areas. This trail offers broad views of the Chattahoochee River and provides opportunities for wildlife observation.
  • Social Trails: In addition to marked trails, social trails on the island allow visitors to explore less-traveled paths. These trails include routes to the northern tip of Powers Island.
  • Trail Markings: Trails are marked with blue blazes and maps at intersections, ensuring easy navigation for hikers.

Watercraft Launch

The park includes a canoe and raft launch that provides access to the Chattahoochee River for kayaks, canoes, rafts, and tubes. While this launch is not suitable for motorized boats or trailers, it is ideal for paddlers seeking calm stretches of water.

Picnic Areas

Picnic tables are scattered throughout Powers Island Riverside Park, offering peaceful spots for family outings or group gatherings. Visitors can enjoy meals while taking in views of the river.

Restrooms

Accessible restroom facilities are available near key areas of the park.

Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) Outpost

The NOC operates an outpost at Powers Island during warmer months (April through October). Visitors can rent tubes, kayaks, paddleboards, and inflatable rafts or book guided river trips through NOC.

Parking

The park includes parking facilities with spaces designated for standard vehicles and buses/RVs. A $5 daily parking fee applies unless visitors hold an annual CRNRA pass.

Recreational Opportunities

Powers Island Riverside Park offers a variety of activities that make it one of the most popular destinations along the Chattahoochee River:

Hiking

The trails at Powers Island provide opportunities for exploration and exercise. Highlights include shaded paths through hardwood forests and panoramic views from ridges overlooking the river.

Fishing

Fishing is permitted along this section of the Chattahoochee River. Anglers can catch trout (rainbow and brown), bass (shoal bass), catfish, and other species in this area.

Paddling

The watercraft launch at Powers Island allows easy access to calm stretches of water downstream toward Cochran Shoals or Paces Mill Park. Kayakers and canoeists often use this launch as a starting point for scenic trips along the river.

Wildlife Observation

Despite being close to urban areas, Powers Island is rich in wildlife. Visitors often spot blue herons, turtles sunning themselves on fallen tree limbs, deer grazing near trails, and other native species along this calm section of the river.

Picnicking

Picnic tables provide peaceful settings for family outings or group gatherings. Visitors can relax by the river while enjoying meals prepared on-site or brought from home.

Safety Considerations

Visitors should exercise caution when engaging in activities at Powers Island:

  • Water Quality: Check current estimated E. coli counts before entering the river; high levels can pose health risks.
  • Trail Conditions: Some trails include steep inclines or rocky sections that require sturdy footwear.
  • River Safety: Paddlers should monitor water release schedules from Buford Dam before starting their trips.

Fees

Accessing Powers Island Riverside Park requires payment of an entrance fee:

  • Daily Pass: $5
  • Annual Pass: $40
    Discounts are available for seniors and military personnel.

Conclusion

Powers Island Riverside Park stands out as one of the most serene destinations along the Chattahoochee River due to its blend of history and recreation. Whether you’re hiking scenic trails through wooded areas or launching a kayak from its watercraft launch for an adventure downstream, this site offers something for everyone. Its rich past combined with modern amenities ensures that visitors leave with lasting memories of this remarkable location along Georgia’s iconic river corridor.