The Lower Amicalola is a serious whitewater stream, with Class II-IV+ rapids and enough volume to challenge the most experienced whitewater enthusiast. Starting at the launch just north of the Highway 53 bridge, the lower Amicalola immediately picks up steam, with a series of small ledges, holes and drops in the few hundred yards leading up to the first major rapid in the lower river – Edge of the World. This rapid is a series of drops and slots with several major cataracts. The entire rapid can be easily scouted, and prudent boaters should take heed because this section has the potential for real problems should a boater end up in the water. From this point, the river’s character is wild adventure, with major rapids like Off-the-Wall, Split Rock, and Roostertail, interspersed with plenty of Class II water, providing back-to-back action for the next 9 miles.

Directions:

The take-out for the lower section is off Kelly Bridge Road. Travel west on Highway 53 until you reach the Cowart Road stop sign. Turn left onto Kelly Bridge and proceed about 3.5 miles to the take-out.