Welcome to the Chattahoochee River Trail website, your premier resource for exploring the scenic and adventurous waters of the Chattahoochee River. Stretching from Buford Dam to Chattahoochee River Park, this 48-mile stretch offers a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Whether you’re interested in boating, kayaking, fishing, hiking or simply want to enjoy the river, our site provides essential information for all of the key locations on the Chattahoochee River. Discover the best launch points, learn about water conditions, and explore the diverse wildlife, trails and historical landmarks along the way. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or just looking for a relaxing day on the water, the Chattahoochee River Trail has something for everyone. Dive in and start planning your next river adventure today!
Wear a PFD or have a PFD when on the Chattahoochee River
Know the Buford Dam Water Release Times
If you are fishing, have a valid fishing license
Pack out your trash / Leave no trace
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Chattahoochee River Tailwater
The Chattahoochee River corridor from Buford Dam to Chattahoochee River Park is what is referred to as “The Tailwater.” This stretch of river is dotted with numerous parks and boat ramps as the Chattahoochee River winds south towards Atlanta. Each park offering unique amenities and recreational opportunities. Below is a detailed description of these locations, highlighting their features such as boat ramps, trails, restrooms, docks, parking, and other facilities.
Buford Dam Park
Buford Dam Park, located on the shores of Lake Lanier in Buford, Georgia, is a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking recreation, relaxation, and natural beauty. Situated just north of Buford Dam, this park offers a wide range of amenities and activities that cater to visitors of all ages and interests. From fishing and boating to hiking and picnicking, Buford Dam Park provides an ideal setting for enjoying the scenic landscapes of Georgia. Below is a detailed description of the park’s amenities, fees, fishing opportunities, and river-related information.
Settles Bridge
Settles Bridge provides hand-launch access for kayaks and canoes, making it ideal for paddlers seeking a quieter experience. While there are no motorboat ramps here, the site features ample parking and hiking trails that wind through wooded areas along the riverbank. Restrooms are not available at this location, so visitors should plan accordingly. The bridge itself offers stunning views of the Chattahoochee River.
McGinnis Ferry Boat Ramp
McGinnis Ferry is equipped with a boat ramp suitable for all types of watercraft, including trailer-launched motorboats. This site is particularly popular among anglers due to its easy access to deeper sections of the river. Amenities include parking spaces and restrooms. The area also features picnic tables and open spaces for relaxation after a day on the water.
Abbotts Bridge
Abbotts Bridge offers a versatile boat ramp that accommodates motorboats, kayaks, canoes, and rafts. This park is well-maintained with amenities such as restrooms, picnic areas, and ample parking. Trails in the vicinity provide opportunities for hiking and birdwatching. The bridge itself is a historic landmark that adds to the charm of this location.
Medlock Bridge
Medlock Bridge features a boat ramp suitable for all types of watercraft, making it a convenient spot for both paddlers and motorboaters. The park includes restrooms, picnic tables, and parking facilities. Hiking trails in the area offer scenic views of the river and surrounding forests.
Jones Bridge
Jones Bridge has two launch points: one for all boats and another specifically for hand-launched watercraft such as kayaks and canoes. This park is popular among anglers due to its proximity to productive fishing spots. Amenities include parking areas, restrooms, picnic facilities, and hiking trails that meander along the riverbank.
Holcomb Bridge
Holcomb Bridge provides hand-launch access for kayaks and canoes but does not accommodate motorboats. This site features limited parking but offers peaceful surroundings ideal for paddlers seeking solitude on the river.
Island Ford
Island Ford serves as the main visitor center for the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. The park includes a canoe and raft launch area as well as hiking trails suitable for varying skill levels. Restrooms are available near the visitor center along with educational exhibits about the park’s natural history. Parking facilities are ample, making this site a convenient starting point for exploring the river.
Morgan Falls Park
Morgan Falls Park includes a boat ramp below Morgan Falls Dam that accommodates various types of watercraft. This site also features docks for fishing or launching small boats. Amenities include restrooms, picnic tables, playgrounds for children, hiking trails with scenic overlooks, and ample parking spaces.
Johnson Ferry
The Johnson Ferry Unit has two sections: North Johnson Ferry and South Johnson Ferry (Columns Drive). North Johnson Ferry features a boat ramp accommodating motorboats, kayaks, canoes, and rafts. It also offers restrooms, picnic areas, hiking trails, and raft rental facilities. South Johnson Ferry focuses more on picnicking with grills and tables but lacks restroom facilities or potable water.
Cochran Shoals
Cochran Shoals provides hand-launch access for kayaks and canoes along with extensive hiking trails that are popular among runners and cyclists. Restrooms are available at this location along with ample parking facilities.
Palisades Unit
The Palisades Unit features multiple boat ramps suitable for both motorboats and hand-launched watercraft. This section offers dramatic views of rocky bluffs along the river as well as hiking trails that range from easy to challenging. Restrooms are available along with picnic areas.
Powers Island
Powers Island provides access to calmer stretches of water ideal for beginner paddlers or those seeking leisurely floats downriver. The park includes hand-launch access points along with parking facilities and restrooms.
Paces Mill Park
Paces Mill Park marks the southernmost access point within the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area before reaching Chattahoochee River Park in Atlanta. This site includes a versatile boat ramp accommodating motorboats as well as hand-launched watercraft like kayaks or canoes. Amenities include restrooms, picnic areas, hiking trails through wooded landscapes, and ample parking.
Each park along this stretch of the Chattahoochee River offers unique experiences tailored to different recreational activities such as fishing, boating, kayaking, hiking, or picnicking.
