🏞️ 8 Unforgettable Things To Do on the Chattahoochee River — Right in East Cobb’s Backyard
As your trusted East Cobb real estate team, we don’t just help you buy or sell a home—we connect you to the lifestylethat makes this community special. One of the biggest draws for families, nature lovers, and adventure seekers alike?
The Chattahoochee River.
Here are 8 unforgettable ways to enjoy the ‘Hooch’—right near your future home.
1. 🚣♀️ Floating & Tubing the Chattahoochee
Locally called “shooting the ’Hooch,” floating down the river is a summer rite of passage.
- Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) – Metro Atlanta Outpost
📍 203 Azalea Dr, Roswell, GA 30075
👉 noc.com - Chattahoochee River Tubing
📍 4349 Abbotts Bridge Rd, Duluth, GA 30097
💵 Around $28 per person + park fee
👉 chattahoocheerivertubing.com
2. 🛶 Kayaking & Stand-Up Paddleboarding
The stretch between Island Ford and Azalea Park features calm waters perfect for beginners and families.
- Gear Rentals & Tours:
NOC offers guided SUP/kayak experiences.
📍 203 Azalea Dr, Roswell, GA 30075
3. 🥾 Hike Scenic River Trails
- East Palisades Trail
📍 1425 Indian Trail NW, Sandy Springs, GA 30327
➤ Explore bamboo forests and dramatic overlooks. - West Palisades (Bob Callan Trail)
📍 3444 Cobb Pkwy SE, Atlanta, GA 30339
➤ Great for trail running and river views. - Sope Creek Trail (Chattahoochee NRA Unit)
📍 3726 Paper Mill Rd SE, Marietta, GA 30067
➤ Enjoy historic mill ruins, biking paths, and quiet loops.
4. 🎣 Fishing for Trout, Bass & Catfish
Try these local fishing spots:
- Island Ford Unit
📍 1978 Island Ford Pkwy, Sandy Springs, GA 30350
➤ Great for trout fishing upstream. - Bowmans Island
📍 Located near Buford Dam, north of Lake Lanier
➤ Fly-fishing haven. - Morgan Falls Dam Park
📍 200 Morgan Falls Rd, Sandy Springs, GA 30350
➤ Better for bass, catfish, and bank fishing.
🧾 A Georgia fishing license is required.
5. 🦉 Birdwatching & Nature Education
- Chattahoochee Nature Center
📍 9135 Willeo Rd, Roswell, GA 30075
🌿 Explore wildlife exhibits, native plant trails, and live bird habitats.
👉 chattnaturecenter.org - The wider Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area boasts 240+ bird species!
6. 🌊 Whitewater Rafting in Columbus
For thrill-seekers:
- Whitewater Express – Columbus
📍 1000 Bay Ave, Columbus, GA 31901
🚗 ~1.5–2 hour drive from East Cobb
➤ Class II–IV rapids on the Lower ’Hooch
👉 whitewaterexpress.com
7. 🍉 Riverside Picnics & Overlooks
- Island Ford Visitor Center
📍 1978 Island Ford Pkwy, Sandy Springs, GA 30350
🧺 Great for lunch with a view, hiking loops, and ranger programs.
8. 🚨 River Safety & Planning Tips
- Life jackets required for all vessels (and strongly recommended for kids).
- Always check water release schedules from Buford Dam.
- Wear water shoes.
- Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
- Consider guided trips if you’re new to the river.
🏡 Live Near the Chattahoochee—And Make It Your Backyard
Living near the river means easy weekend getaways, family bonding time, and a built-in sense of community. Imagine spontaneous picnics, after-school hikes, or sunrise paddles—just minutes from your front door.
Want some more outside actives to do during the summertime? Click here to explore
💬 Thinking of buying or selling near East Cobb or the Chattahoochee River?
Let’s find you more than just a house—
Let’s find your lifestyle.
📞 Call us today to schedule a consultation
📧 Or message us to get a custom home search tailored to your lifestyle goals.
