Riverside & Rapids: Exploring Wetumpka & the Coosa River

52 Weekends on the Water

On the Alabama Scenic River Trail, there’s something new to experience every weekend of the year.

Riverside & Rapids: Exploring Wetumpka & the Coosa River

Region

Central

Bodies of Water to Explore

Coosa River

Best Season

Spring, Summer, Fall

Skill Level

Paddles: 1 – no skill, desire to learn; 2 – moderate, knowledge needed; 3 – advanced, know what’s up

Distances

3-4 Mile Paddle

Trip Duration

4-5 hour float

Recommended Put In & Take Out

Put-In: Coosa River Adventures
Take Out: Coosa River Adventures

Outfitters Nearby

Coosa River Adventures

Trip Summary

Whitewater in Central Alabama! This section of the Coosa River has some of the best whitewater in the state. You can rent kayaks and canoes at Coosa River Adventures in the heart of downtown Wetumpka and enjoy a 4-5 hour float. This trip is PERFECT for people of all ages and abilities. Small whitewater patches are easy to navigate leading up to the big event at Moccasin Gap! Take your chance at the gap while onlookers watch from the island takeout in the middle of the river. Not feeling the plunge? There is an easy and manageable alternative route on the left side of the river.

When you are done paddling walk or drive into downtown Wetumpka (a Main Street Community) for good food, good drinks and beautiful views of the river. Have some extra time in town? Stop by Fort Toulouse and one of the public viewing points of the Wetumpka Impact Crater.

Trail Highlights

Day 1

Stop 1: Fuel up before your adventure at Restoration Coffee House
Stop 2: Rent your equipment and go out on your paddling adventure at Coosa River Adventures in Downtown Wetumpka
- Paddler Trip Tips: Small whitewater patches are easy to navigate leading up to the big event at Moccasin Gap! Take your chance at the gap while onlookers watch from the island takeout in the middle of the river. Not feeling the plunge? There is an easy and manageable alternative route on river left.
Stop 3: Bring you own lunch on the water or Indulge in a delicious lunch or dinner at Coosa Cleaver!
Stop 4: Discover unique local tastes at Coosa River Craft House

Side Ventures & Optional Activities to Add to Your Trip

Explore Fort Toulouse
Visit the Wetumpka Impact Crater
- The Wetumpka Impact Crater Commission hosts an annual tour in the late spring and has also created a self-guided tour of “Educational Viewpoints” in public locations.
Stroll through downtown Wetumpka’s Main Street
- There is always something happening in a downtown with a strong Main Street program. Be sure to check out their website and socials to see if your trip overlaps with any local events!

Bonus Sightings

The Coosa River below Jordan Dam may be the best large spotted bass river fishery in the nation. Mussels, snails, and other creatures are abundant. For more information check out the Outdoor Alabama website.