About Us
The beautiful waters of the Cartecay River run through the mountains in and around the city of Ellijay, merging with the Ellijay River to form Coosawattee. Kids and adults alike will enjoy a tube or kayak trip down the river.
Whether you want to lazily ride down in an tube, or fight the waves in a kayak, we’ll meet all your needs for a fun day on the water. All the necessary gear is provided; inner tubes, or kayaks with paddles, life jackets, and shuttle service to the river.
We also offer an excellent location for fishing. Bring your fishing license with trout stamp!
Rates
Tube
1 Mile
- (about an hour)
-
3 Mile
- 3 to 5 hours
Sit-On-Top Kayak
1 Mile
- 30 to 60 minutes
-
3 Mile
- 2 to 4 hours
Please submit one release form per person.
Directions
From the Atlanta area:
Take 75N to 575N. 575 will turn into 515N. From the 75/575 intersection, come approximately 56 miles. Then at the 3rd stop light in Ellijay (there is a Hardees, Arbys and Walgreens), take a left. Cross the bridge and take a right onto 52E towards Amicalola Falls. Go approximately 6 miles. Turn left onto Big Creek Rd. at the Dollar General store. Look for kayaking and tubing signs and go almost 2 miles, and you will see us on the right. Turn onto Holt Bridge Rd. on the right by the river.
The final destination is 88 Holt Bridge Rd., Ellijay, GA 30536.
FAQs
Where are you located?
You will begin your adventure at 88 Holt Bridge Rd, Ellijay, GA 30536, and we’ll shuttle from there. For detailed directions to our location, see the Directions.
Can I bring a cooler?
No, according to Gilmer County regulations, no coolers or alcohol are permitted on the river. Only 32 oz. water bottles are allowed.
Is there a place to have a picnic?
Yes! Please feel free to use one of our many picnic tables.
When is the best time to start?
We recommend starting early before the heat of the day reaches its peak, however, our last 1 mile trip leaves our location at 4:00 PM and our last 3 mile trip leaves at 1:00 PM.
Is there wildlife in the river?
Of course! We’re riding through their habitat.
Where do we park?
Free parking is available at the shuttle location.
What should I wear?
Most customers prefer swim suits or shorts and a t-shirt. Dress comfortably! Old tennis shoes or water shoes are recommended.
How will I know where to get out?
Our staff will instruct you where to exit the river depending on the trip you choose.
What is the weight limit of the tubes?
The weight capacity is 250 lbs.
Do I have to be able to swim?
Yes, swimming required for long trips. Our 1 mile trip is designed to be slow lazy river floating. However, it’s highly recommended that you know how to swim.
Can we connect our tubes?
Yes, an adult can connect to anyone under 12 years of age. Due to safety precautions, only two people are permitted to be attached.
Can I bring my own tube or kayak?
Yes, we provide shuttle service for a small fee for customers supplying their own equipment.
Can I bring a camera?
Waterproof cameras are available for purchase at our locations to record your fun, or you may bring your own.
Do you take reservations?
We run on a first come, first served basis. However, we do recommend groups of 20 or more call or email ahead to confirm availability.
Is there a group discount?
Groups of 10+ receive a discount but must be scheduled in advance. Call 706-889-8697 to schedule.
Do I have to wear a life vest?
Children under 12 must wear a life jacket.
ADULTS MUST HAVE LIFE VEST READILY AVAILABLE, IF NOT WORN.
Is there an age requirement?
There is no age minimum for our one mile trip. It’s a calm, family friendly ride with no rapids. Small children can either ride in a tube with an adult, or we also have small kid-sized tubes with bottoms where the child can attach their tubes to a parents tube. For our three mile trip, we recommend 5 years and up and that everyone be able to swim because there are some rapids on that section of river.
Are pets allowed?
Yes, pets are allowed as long as they can fit in the customers lap in the tube/kayak or can swim along the way. No tubes or kayaks can be rented for the animal.
