Shoot the 'Hooch: Best Put-In Spots on the Chattahoochee

If you’re looking for the perfect mix of sunshine, fresh air, and a little splash of adventure, paddling the Chattahoochee River through Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area (CRNRA) checks all the boxes! Whether you’re into kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, or just floating downstream with your favorite snacks and a speaker, this river’s got something for everyone.

With 48 miles of protected water flowing through metro Atlanta, CRNRA is basically a paddler’s paradise! The water’s cool, the views are peaceful, and you might even spot a heron or a sunbathing turtle if you keep your eyes peeled. Not bad for a Saturday, right?

So where should you launch? Here are a few favorite spots to get your feet wet:

Abbotts Bridge

Up near Duluth, this launch is great for a mellow float. The stretch from Abbotts Bridge to Medlock Bridge is calm, scenic, and ideal for new paddlers or those who just want to take it easy.

Medlock Bridge

A go-to option for a classic Chattahoochee experience. Float to Jones Bridge for a mostly flat and fun time!

Powers Island

A popular launch in Vinings with easy access, pretty views, and lots of activity on the weekends. Paddle here if you like a little more energy and people-watching along the way.

Island Ford & Johnson Ferry North

These two are tucked into wooded stretches of the park and give off total “hidden gem” energy. Plus, the paddling is peaceful and mostly flat—perfect for a chill morning or golden hour float.

Just a friendly reminder: since the Chattahoochee is dam-controlled, always check the flow rates and water release schedule before you launch (thanks, Buford Dam!). And yes, life jackets are a must—but you’ll look cool in one, promise!

Need a little guidance before you launch? We’ve teamed up with Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) Atlanta to offer guided Paddle the Park outings all summer long! These relaxed group paddles are a great way to explore new stretches of the river, meet other paddlers, and enjoy the park from a whole new perspective. NOC’s expert guides will handle the details—you just show up ready for a fun time on the water!

Check out Paddle the Park →

Whether you’re paddling solo, bringing the family, or introducing your dog to their first boat ride, there’s nothing quite like drifting down the 'Hooch with the sun on your shoulders and the sounds of the river all around! Come out and see why paddling is one of the best ways to experience your national park.

Paddle the Park 2025

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Support Your Local National Park

If you enjoy CRNRA, consider supporting the Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy (CNPC). Your donation helps maintain and improve our beautiful trails and river, ensuring they remain a top destination and escape for metro Atlanta. Every contribution makes a difference in preserving this natural treasure for future generations.

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What Are Park Units in CRNRA?

January 8, 2026

Whitewater Creek, Island Ford, Gold Branch… why do they all have different names? Aren’t they all part of CRNRA? Yep, they are! It’s a common question! Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area (CRNRA) is made up of 15 separate park "units," or individual greenspaces, scattered along 48 miles of the Chattahoochee River. Unlike many national parks that are one big, connected space, CRNRA is made up of individual pieces of land, like a string of pearls scattered along the river. Each unit is its own distinct park area, with its own trailheads, river access points, and natural features. So when someone says they visited “CRNRA,” that could mean they went to: Island Ford (home to the Visitor Center) Palisades (popular for hiking and views) Paces Mill, Vickery Creek, Bowmans Island, Cochran Shoals... and many more! This setup can be confusing because the park isn’t one continuous space — you might drive 10 or 20 minutes between units. But together, they make up the full and beautiful Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area! Want to explore them all? Check out our interactive map and full list of park units on our website to discover a new favorite spot along the river!

Chattahoochee River NRA and Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy Kick Off Trail Transformation Project at Island Ford Headquarters

January 8, 2026

Date: December 7, 2025 Contact: Patrick Gamman, Acting Superintendent , 678-538-1200 SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. – On Dec. 7, Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area launches a trail system transformation at the Island Ford unit. Visitors should be prepared for trail closures at Island Ford from January 5 until Spring of 2026. CRNRA will post updates on closures and nearby trail alternatives on its website at nps.gov/chat , on social media @chattahoocheerivernps, and in the Hewlett Lodge Visitor Center at Island Ford, which will remain open to the public seven days a week, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. The National Park Service, in partnership with the CRNRA’s official friends’ group, Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy, will begin this park-wide project at Island Ford, home to park headquarters and the Hewlett Lodge Visitor Center. The Island Ford project includes trail rehabilitation and an additional 2.2 miles of trails to improve long-term use, access, and park preservation. This project is the first step in implementing CRNRA’s Comprehensive Trails Management Plan, published in 2022. The plan calls for trail enhancements at every park unit with more durable paths, resource conservation, and a better experience for visitors. The plan further adds 33 miles of new trails throughout the park—a 50% increase—including pedestrian-only, bicycle/multi-use, and ADA accessible trail miles. The jointly planned and executed project will be funded and led by the Conservancy, with public support. Trail improvements will address issues of erosion, safety, navigability, access, and protection of park resources for ongoing visitor enjoyment. Trails will be stronger and better built to withstand the numbers of visitors enjoying them every year. Additional miles of hiking trails will expand recreation opportunities and chances for solitude in the woods. Named loop hikes and improved maps will create easy-to-navigate opportunities and breathe new life into hiking, walking, and running in this green oasis beside the Chattahoochee River. For more information on the Island Ford Trail Project, visit Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy website at: https://www.chattahoocheeparks.org/iftrails For more information on Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, visit https://www.nps.gov/chat/index.htm .