Hey there, fellow adventurers! Feeling the sizzle of the Georgia heat? We feel you (and the heat), so hold on to your paddles because we’ve got the perfect pitstop for you: the Ocmulgee Water Trail. The longest continuous water trail in the state of Georgia at over 250 miles, the Ocmulgee Water Trail is a destination for paddlers and river enthusiasts and provides a variety of recreational activities. There’s no better remedy to the summer sun than trading pavement for paddles and cityscape for scenic waterways. It’s your river to explore, so water you waiting for?
The Ocmulgee Water trail stretches from Macon to Lumber City, Georgia, so the flow and intensity of the water can change significantly depending on where you choose to explore! This makes one of the best things about the Ocmulgee Water Trail its accessibility. Between long stretches of flat water and some of the Ocmulgee’s most challenging whitewater with rapids ranging from Class 1 to Class 3, you can choose your own adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a complete newbie, this trail caters to all skill levels. Plus, with various access points along the way, you can customize your adventure to suit your preferences. Want a leisurely afternoon paddle? Check. Craving a full-day excursion? Double-check. The possibilities are endless! There are spots for both thrillseekers and lazy river enthusiasts alike along this 200+ mile stretch.
If you’re catching the Ocmulgee Water Trail from Macon, be sure to check out Ocmulgee Outdoor Expeditions, named by the Macon Telegraph as the 2022 Best Family Attraction. Macon’s original and locally owned canoe and kayak rental service for the Ocmulgee River, they offer a variety of trips for novice to experienced paddlers and provide shuttle service. From team-building trips for 50+ to intimate multi-day options for the most avid of adventurers, Ocmulgee Water Expeditions is “your path to bliss on the Ocmulgee.” “Canoes, Kayaks, and Inner Peace” is their motto, and they say that “with every canoe or kayak launched on the Ocmulgee, our customers discover the beauty of the river and feel the peace that comes with paddling.” For more information, visit their website
www.ocmulgeeoutdoorexpeditions.com.
The Ocmulgee Water Trail is not just for nature enthusiasts and water lovers; it’s for history buffs, too! The Ocmulgee Water Trail is steeped in rich cultural heritage. Along the way, you’ll encounter ancient Native American mounds, historic landmarks, and maybe even a ghost story or two. So, not only are you getting your dose of outdoor adventure, but you’re also immersing yourself in the fascinating history of the region. One hidden gem along the way is historic Juliette, GA, once home to the largest water-powered grist mill in the country in the 1920s, but now probably better known as the backdrop for the iconic film Fried Green Tomatoes. Stop by the cafe from the movie, Whistle Stop Cafe, and enjoy a classic southern dish and, of course, fried green tomatoes!
For information on planning your trip and other resources, visit ocmulgeewatertrail.com. Happy paddling, adventurers!