Spring whitewater release upcoming at Tallulah Gorge

A memorable and anticipated occasion for avid whitewater paddlers in the area is the spring release of Tallulah Gorge’s whitewater which is set to occur this weekend.

Tallulah Gorge was dammed in 1913, but it wasn’t until May of 1993 that the first kayakers tested its waters. Now, skilled paddlers from all over the country come to Tallulah during the first three weeks of April to test their boating mettle on this 2-mile whitewater trip.

Georgia Power’s whitewater release into Tallulah Gorge will be held this Saturday and Sunday. The event allows paddlers access to the river for the ultimate recreation experience. An average of 500 cubic feet per second (fps) cascade through the gorge, creating Class IV and V rapids that are perfect for advanced paddlers.

If paddling isn’t your thing, but you’d like to witness this spectacular event, the hiking trails around Tallulah Gorge State Park will be open, as will the steps off the North Rim Trail leading to the suspension bridge above Hurricane Falls.

However, according to park rangers, no gorge permits will be issued during whitewater release.