The Tugaloo River Water Trail Sunset Paddle is scheduled for September 4, beginning at 4:30 pm. Paddlers will leave from the Broken Bridges Park within the Stephens County Park located on Georgia Highway 123 before you cross the bridge to South Carolina.
“This is a favorite paddle because of the time of day and the beauty of the river,” says co-chair David Jalovick. “Paddlers seem to like this paddle because we don’t really hurry. We will paddle out beyond the railway bridge to what locals call ‘Indian Island.’ The truth is: being on the river at any time of the day, is just plain fun!”
A cookout is planned for after the paddle with plenty of social distancing. If you are interested, you need to register via email tugalooriverwatertrail@gmail.com or sign up on the Tugaloo River Water Trail’s Facebook page.
“We are asking that people continue to be sensitive to the Covid situation,” said Angie Ramage, co-chair for the Tugaloo River Water Trail.
“When you are on the river, you are in a safe environment, especially when it comes to Covid. Still, we want to be considerate of everyone who paddles with us. So, please practice safety on all levels. Be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, snacks, your personal floatation device (PFD), and something to cook on our grills after the paddle is over. For complete details, check out our Facebook page.”
Local historian, Kelly Vickers will once again lead this paddle. “The sunset paddle is one of my favorites,” says Vickers, “because it takes in late evening views of the river and the headwaters of Lake Hartwell with several stops along the way. Plus, I have the opportunity to bring to life the historical facts surrounding this area of the Tugaloo River.”
Paddlers of all ages and skill levels are welcome. Under 16, you must be accompanied by an adult. It is recommended that for the first part of the paddle, paddlers wear a hat or some type of sun covering. This is a flat-water paddle, but it does cross open water.
The cost is $10 per person. For more information follow the Tugaloo River Water Trail on Facebook.