Etowah
2 - Hightower Road at Miles Berry Road to first Hwy 9 crossing
| Difficulty | II(III) |
| Length | 10.9 mi |
| Avg Gradient | 10 fpm |
| Gauge | Etowah River Near Dahlonega, Ga |
| Flow Rate as of 4402 days | 260 cfsstale data |
| Reach Info Last Updated | September 20, 2024 |
River Description
05/29/2022: This sectiion of the Etowah is absolutely gorgeous with untouched sections of conifer forest, clear waters, and beautiful views. It features several 3-10 feet drops and would be a great run for beginner paddlers willing to portage in areas. HOWEVER, the number of strainers, log jams and strong current makes this section challenging for the most experienced paddlers. The run can be done at 300 CFS thru 600 CFS. Anything higher- you are taking an extreme risk due the log jams and strainers. Do not attempt at 1000 CFS or above. All sources of information published on this section of the Etowah are well out of date and not to be trusted.
River Features
Put In at Hightower Church Road and Miles Berry Road
Headed north on Hightower Church Rd towards Miles Berry Road you will see dirt road access on the left. Avoid the mudholes if possible but I made it thru in an Acura RDX. The slope down to the river is easily accessible but will require some light scrambling. Easy to access more or less. Image in gallery and check Trip Reports on the left menu.
Take Out
Trip Reports
Log in to add a reportPrivate small steel bridge previously ~ 1 mile from put in has been washed downstream and now completely blocks the Etowah. The obstacle can be portaged on the left without exiting the river in 300-500 cfs. Beware in higher water.
Gentle class 1st at put in with depth of 2 feet but fast current.
Headed north on Hightower Church road you will see a dirt road on the left as you approach the Miles Berry Rd intersection. A couple of mudholes to be overcome but made it thru in an Acura RDX 4 wheel drive. The path down to the river is right next to the bridge and will require a little bit of scrambling. No problems to report.
Large fallen tree creates a river-wide hazard about 1/4 mile below Highway 52 bridge. Can be easily gone under at normal water levels, especially on the right, but could be dangerous at higher level.