Westside Hike & Paddle 2024

From the venue:

About this event
Event lasts 6 hours

PLEASE READ: This event was orginially planned to be a paddling tour on the Chattahoochee River. However, due to unsafe water conditions & damaged infrastructure throughout Chattahoochee River in the wake of Hurricane Helene, we’ve decided to cancel the Westside Chattahoochee Paddle as planned.

Instead, we’re happy to announce that we’ve transitioned the event to a Hike & Paddle Tour at Sweetwater Creek State Park! Although different from our original location, Sweetwater Creek has its own unique cultural history worth exploring (much of which is tied to what we planned to discuss on the Chattahoochee River). And the site offers beautiful land and paddling trails for us to explore as well.

We will still provide the gear and lunches for all participants as planned.

Cost: $20 

Meeting Location: Sweetwater Creek State Park - 1750 Mt Vernon Rd, Lithia Springs, GA 30122. Participants: Max of 30 (20 participants + 10 volunteers)

Activity Outline: 

Morning (10a-12:30p) - Group hike through the trails of Sweetwater Creek to explore historical landmarks.
Midday (12:30p-1:30p) - Lunch at Picnic Pavilion
Afternoon (1:30-4p) - Guided kayak tour across the lake.

Physical Criteria to Participate...

Ability to swim is not required, however, participants must be realistic about their abilities and comfort level in a boat. We will get wet (lower body, possibly upper body). This event is NOT RECOMMENDED for those who are scared of water.
Participants must be able to breathe independently (i.e. not require medical devices to sustain breathing). Inhalers are fine.
Participants must be able to follow instructions and effectively communicate independently (i.e. without the assistance of an adult/companion).
Participants must be able to independently hold head upright without neck or head support
Kayaking is a full-body activity that requires the use of arms, shoulders, chest, and legs. Participants should come prepared to apply physical effort during the trip.

Mandatory Dress Code:

Do not wear cotton clothing
Wear comfortable hiking shoes and water shoes. Old tennis shoes that fit well make great water shoes if you don’t have those. Must be closed-toed shoes. NO flip flops! Or similarly styled footwear
Wear swimming or Quick-dry athletic clothing (NO cotton or denim). If you don’t have swim clothing, athletic/sports clothes will work.
Hat (optional, but recommended).
Do not wear cotton clothing
Snacks (if you have specific dietary restrictions)
Water Bottle (filled w/ water)
DO NOT WEAR COTTON!

For questions, please contact the West Atlanta Watershed Alliance.

Email: shaundon at wawa-online.org

Phone: (404) 752-5385

See you on the water!