by Judy Norton

Nine folks went on the Toccoa overnighter May 14 & 15th. Our first preference was Talking Rock Creek, but it was below the American Whitewater recommended minimum CFS. The Toccoa’s 380 CFS was sufficient to provide a clear channel most of the time. The group met at Deep Hole Campground. Uwe and Ben’s crew graciously had already run a shuttle. We loaded gear into canoes (it is amazing how much gear can be needed for a single night)

The river level was pleasant: not too pushy. We noticed massive hemlock trees that had fallen over the years; most had washed off to the side. One rapid that caught our attention was just below the swinging bridge on Benton MacKaye trail.

Amy negotiating the rapid beneath Swinging Bridge.

Camping was pleasant; previous high waters had scoured the campsite clean and left a bed of fine sand. The temps dropped into the low 40’s during the night; the crew worked together to have plenty firewood available to combat the chill.

Sandy Bottom Takeout.

After 13.8 miles of clean water, crisp air, and beautiful forest paddling (with some McMansions on the side) we arrived at Sandy Bottoms take-out. Participants included Uwe Zitzow, Don Bodley, Carolyn Rand, Ben and Amy Johnson, Archie, Clint Schmitt, David Leigh, and Judy Norton. A fine time was had by all.