river rafting helen ga

Helen, Georgia is a beautiful mountain town located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. The town is known for its Bavarian-themed architecture, its charming shops and restaurants, and its abundance of outdoor activities. One of the most popular outdoor activities in Helen is river rafting.

The Chattahoochee River, which flows through Helen, offers a variety of rafting experiences, from mild floats to thrilling whitewater rapids. There are several rafting companies located in Helen that offer guided trips for all levels of experience.

Introduction

River rafting is a great way to experience the beauty of the Chattahoochee River and the surrounding mountains. It’s a fun and exciting activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and experience levels. If you’re planning a river rafting trip to Helen, Georgia, here are a few things you need to know.

Choosing a River Rafting Company

There are several rafting companies located in Helen that offer guided trips on the Chattahoochee River. When choosing a company, it’s important to consider your experience level and the type of trip you’re looking for. Some companies offer mild floats that are suitable for beginners, while others offer more challenging whitewater trips for experienced rafters.

Once you’ve chosen a company, be sure to book your trip in advance, especially if you’re planning to go during peak season. Most companies require reservations, and they can fill up quickly.

What to Expect on a River Rafting Trip

A typical river rafting trip will last for about 2-3 hours. You’ll start by getting fitted for a life jacket and helmet. Then, you’ll board a raft with your guide and paddle down the river. Along the way, you’ll enjoy the scenery, paddle through rapids, and maybe even stop for a swim.

The difficulty of your trip will depend on the section of the river you’re rafting and the water level. The Chattahoochee River has several different sections, each with its own unique set of rapids. Your guide will choose a section that is appropriate for your experience level.

Packing for a River Rafting Trip

When packing for a river rafting trip, be sure to wear comfortable clothing that you can get wet in. You’ll also want to bring a swimsuit, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. If you have long hair, be sure to tie it back or braid it.

You may also want to bring a waterproof camera to capture your adventure. And don’t forget to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Safety Tips for River Rafting

River rafting is a safe activity, but there are always some risks involved. Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind⁚

• Always wear a life jacket and helmet.
• Listen to your guide’s instructions.
• Stay in the raft at all times.
• Don’t swim in the river unless you’re supervised by a guide.
• Be aware of your surroundings and watch for hazards.

By following these safety tips, you can help ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable river rafting trip.

Choosing a River Rafting Company

There are several rafting companies located in Helen that offer guided trips on the Chattahoochee River. When choosing a company, it’s important to consider your experience level and the type of trip you’re looking for. Here are a few things to keep in mind⁚

Experience Level

Some companies offer mild floats that are suitable for beginners, while others offer more challenging whitewater trips for experienced rafters. If you’re not sure what level of difficulty is right for you, ask the company for advice.

Type of Trip

There are different types of river rafting trips available, from short floats to multi-day expeditions. Decide how much time you want to spend on the river and what type of experience you’re looking for.

Company Reputation

Read online reviews to see what other rafters have said about their experience with different companies. This can give you a good idea of the quality of their service and the safety of their operation.

Cost

River rafting trips can vary in price, so be sure to compare costs before booking. Keep in mind that the price may include different things, such as transportation to and from the river, lunch, and other amenities.

Once you’ve considered these factors, you can start narrowing down your choices. Here are a few of the most popular rafting companies in Helen⁚

• Cool River Tubing & Rafting
• Helen Tubing & Waterpark
• Nantahala Outdoor Center
• Ocoee Rafting
• Sunburst Stables & Adventures

These companies offer a variety of rafting trips to choose from, so you’re sure to find one that’s right for you.

What to Expect on a River Rafting Trip

A river rafting trip can be a thrilling and unforgettable experience. Here’s what you can expect on a typical trip⁚

Before the Trip

• You will need to arrive at the rafting company’s office to check in and get fitted for your life jacket and helmet.
• The guides will give you a safety briefing and go over the commands they will use during the trip.
• You will then load into the raft and head to the river.

On the River

• The guides will paddle the raft through the rapids, but you may be asked to help paddle in calm sections.
• You will get wet, so be sure to wear appropriate clothing and footwear.
• The guides will point out interesting landmarks and wildlife along the way.
• You may have the opportunity to stop for a swim or picnic lunch.

After the Trip

• Once you reach the end of the trip, you will unload the raft and return to the rafting company’s office.
• You can change into dry clothes and purchase souvenirs or photos of your trip.

Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Trip

• Listen to the guides’ instructions and follow their commands.
• Stay seated in the raft at all times, even in calm water.
• Wear a life jacket and helmet at all times.
• Be aware of your surroundings and avoid obstacles in the river.
• Don’t drink alcohol before or during your trip.
• Have fun and enjoy the experience!

Packing for a River Rafting Trip

Packing for a river rafting trip is essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here’s what you need to bring⁚

Clothing

• Synthetic or wool clothing that will keep you warm and dry, even when wet
• A swimsuit or shorts and a t-shirt for wearing under your life jacket
• A fleece or sweatshirt for warmth
• A rain jacket or poncho
• Comfortable, closed-toe shoes that can get wet

Gear

• A life jacket (provided by the rafting company)
• A helmet (provided by the rafting company)
• A whistle
• A small first-aid kit
• A water bottle
• A snack
• A camera (optional)

Other Essentials

• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• A hat
• Cash or credit card for tips and souvenirs
• A change of clothes for after the trip

Tips for Packing

• Pack light and leave valuables at home.
• Use a waterproof bag or dry bag to keep your belongings dry.
• Wear your swimsuit or shorts and t-shirt under your other clothes to stay warm.
• Bring a small towel to dry off after the trip.

Safety Tips for River Rafting

River rafting is a fun and exciting activity, but it’s important to be aware of the risks and take precautions to stay safe. Here are some safety tips to follow⁚

Before the Trip

• Choose a reputable rafting company with experienced guides.
• Read and understand the safety instructions provided by the rafting company.
• Wear a life jacket at all times while on the river.
• Stay in the raft and follow the instructions of your guide.
• Be aware of your surroundings and potential hazards, such as rocks, logs, and other boats.

During the Trip

• Paddle hard and listen to your guide’s commands.
• Stay seated and hold on tight when going through rapids.
• If you fall out of the raft, stay calm and float downstream until you can be rescued.
• Don’t swim against the current.
• Be aware of other rafters and boaters on the river.

After the Trip

• Get out of the river and change into dry clothes as soon as possible.
• Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
• Be aware of the signs and symptoms of hypothermia, such as shivering, confusion, and loss of coordination.
• If you experience any injuries or discomfort, seek medical attention immediately.

By following these safety tips, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable river rafting experience.