Coosa

General Info & Whitewater Festival

The Coosa River is one of the largest volume whitewater runs in the Southeast. The majority of the run is flat and the Spanish Moss up in the trees and occasional alligators should alert paddlers that they are in the deep south. You might notice the massive rocks at the base of Jordan Dam, all that remains of 'The Devil's Staircase.'  Rumor has it the sound of water flowing over these rocks was heard miles away.  The town was aptly named 'Wetumpka' which means rumbling waters. The major attraction of the Coosa is the annual rodeo at Moccasin Gap rapid. Moccasin Gap is reputed to be the southern most Class III rapid in Alabama. While an easy Class III drop it presents some exciting play spots and the rodeo is always a great event. Of all of the rivers in the Southeast the Coosa is one of the few whitewater runs where powerboats can interrupt a rodeo. The play spots and rapids outside of Moccasin Gap are all Class II in nature but the local rocks are extremely sharp and can rip up boats or boaters. There are alternative put-ins below the dam that require crossing private land. These are often open during the rodeo.

Info on the whitewater festival: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Coosa-River-Whitewater-Festival/198766436805176

River Levels

2000 cfs = extremely low

4000 cfs = low, good for beginners and novice paddlers

6000 cfs = better

8000 cfs = ideal flow

10000 cfs = some things may begin to wash out

Run Description

Put in at the base of Jordan Dam. The first 1.5 mile stretch is flatwater until you get to 'river falls' shoals.  You'll know you're there when you see a large island in the middle of the river.  Most paddlers stay right of the island, as the left channel is shallow and accumulates wood.  Stay right to find Maytag

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