Etowah

The 8.8 mile lower section is much flatter, with only Class I-II rapids, but has pleasant woods and bluffs. The lower section also includes a truly unique feature: 3.5 miles below Castleberry Bridge, much of the river's flow disappears into a quarter-mile long abandoned mining tunnel on river left. Look for a fast-moving stream running away from the river to the left and into a big hole in the side of the mountain: eddy out at tje split to check for debris, strainers, etc. Get out of your boat and look for the proverbial light at the end of the tunnel: if it beckons, even advanced boaters will enjoy the ride. If you can't see the light from the far end when scouting, or if it is partially blocked, avoid the tunnel and stay on the main river.

There are slides in the tunnel (to correct the alignment of the crews working from each end to drill it), there's virtually no light and the noise is intimidating, so hang on, stay seated and keep your limbs in the boat for a fun ride. There's also a hole at the end of the tunnel on river right and a potentially dangerous rock shortly below the tunnel exit, also river right. Because the tunnel is extremely dark, it is important to leave enough time between boats so that anyone swimming in the tunnel can reach safety at the lower end. The tunnel is a challenge, especially at higher water levels, and first-timers should be in a group that includes someone who knows the tunnel.

According to

Roger Nott 400 cfs is OK but on the high side for the tunnel. Be alert and keep your brace handy. The rapids between Castleberry Bridge and the tunnel can be a little scrapey below 200 cfs, though the Waterfall Section immediately upstream can be run smoothly a little lower. Other than about 4 rapids, the rest of the Tunnel Section is usually fine all year round and is essentially f

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