Showing posts with label whitewater. Show all posts
Showing posts with label whitewater. Show all posts

Thursday, July 4, 2019

Cool Off While Kayaking the Coosa then Soak in the History





Perhaps you are from the NOLA area, desiring a quick adventure with little drive time.    Perhaps you are one of our readers outside of the region, desiring  a trip down south to discover some of the diverse history mixed with a splash of outdoor fun.  Regardless of which of the two statements above fits your situation, read on, as this post may be just the adventure your Frugal Family Travelers are seeking this summer!

Outdoor Whitewater Adventure.......

The Coosa River in Wetumpka, AL (right outside Montgomery) is known to locals but, unfortunately, not to many in the NOLA area.    We stumbled upon it while searching for a whitewater river adventure, not far from home.  Side note: If you are a frequent reader of the Frugal Family Travelers blog , you know we enjoy kayaking.  However, on this excursion, we desired a float trip that packed an adrenaline rush NOT invoked by the typical gator sitings  on our Louisiana bayous.   

Coosa River Adventures Outfitters was just the place to make this come to fruition: (click here for more information)

*Reservation were easily made over the phone.   

*The River outpost was conveniently located adjacent to the Coosa, with shuttle service to the take out point.   *All gear and safety instructions were  provided.   

*The atmosphere was great for families of all types!!  

*The owner was extremely friendly and has been in business well over twenty years!

*The staff were extremely helpful and friendly! 

*The float itself was packed with excitement, with some class II and III rapids, as well as moments for respite on sandy shores and rock islands, in the middle of the river.   






(Pictured above: A waterfall that flows into the river!  This is a great place to stop and swim and picnic.   It can also be accessed from Corn Creek Park
!)





Jordan Dam on the Coosa River 


Things to pack:

**Sunscreen!   

**Soft side coolers are perfect for the kayak!

**Ziplocks or water bags for items and food.  

**Bottled water!  

**Cheap sunglasses...they may float down the river if you tip over!!!

**Trash bags! 

**Hat!!!!!  

**Water shoes!!!!

**Carabiners to attach items to the kayak! 

Cost:

**Check the website for a variety of pricing options based on your needs.  



Directions:

Click here for google map and directions.  

History......

Our Frugal Family Travelers have visited Montgomery in previous years!   However, on this trip, we arrived later in the afternoon, when many museums had already closed.   Due to this, we opted to spend our time by completing a self guided Civil Heritage Walking Tour with the map we obtained from the visitors center at Union Station, near the river (see map below).  We highly suggest a stop at Union Station when you first arrive.    Not only is it rich in history but an attendant at the center will supply you with formation suited for your stay!   Make sure you check the operating hours for each of the museums listed.  



Sites along our walking tour......

Union Station:

Riverboat Park: 

St John’s Episcopal:


Court Square Fountain and State Capitol in background:


Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church:






For hikers........

Swayback Trail






Disclaimer:


All content provided on Frugal Family Travelers blog is for informational purposes only. The owners of this blog make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site.  The owners 

of Frugal Family Travelers blog do not share personal information with third-parties and are not responsible for the republishing of the content found on this blog on other Web sites or media without permission.  As with all travel, operating days, times, costs, etc., should be verified prior to departure.

Coosa River Adventure

Sunday, May 28, 2017

Lookout Mountain Parkway Series Post 3: Cloudland Canyon State Park



If you have been following our blog posts on the Lookout Mountain Parkway then you have already discovered some amazing places to add to your bucket list.  This next and final place, however, was our personal favorite and is well worth working into your summer plans, if you are headed to Georgia!

Cloudland Canyon State Park  encompasses over 3,400 acres and is located in Rising Fawn, GA on the western end of the Lookout Mountain.    Like many other state parks,  accommodations include  cottages, sites for tent camping and RVs, cabins of various sizes, as well as Yurts (which meld the tent camping and cabin experience into one)!  A wealth of activities are to be had in the park including:  guided and unguided hikes, mountain biking, birding, cave tours, and pond fishing.   Perhaps the most breathtaking of views is that of the canyon itself which can easily be accomplished by taking  a short walk from a parking area!  From there, your Frugal Family Travelers will discover an expansive overlook for viewing the canyon! For those wanting to get up close and personal with the canyon a lengthy strenuous trail, laced with approx 600 stairs, can be taken into the canyon itself.  We highly recommend doing so if you are physically able.   The views on the canyon trail are spectacular!   A white water stream is present for most of the trail hike with a rewarding and spectacular view of the  beautiful Hemlock Falls on the canyon floor.  

Cost:

$5 for day use

Directions:

122 Cloudland Canyon Park Rd, Rising Fawn, GA 30738

Tips:

Prior to departure, read the State Park web site for activities and tours offered during you time of visit.  Pack plenty of water, especially if you plan to hike to the base of the canyon.   Plan ample time for your hike if you are traveling with younger children.  Water levels vary depending on the season and amount of rainfall.  As with all outdoor activities pack bug spray! Download digital copies of the trail map on your phone (or take pictures) and carry paper copies provided b the park!  It makes a great back-up!  Pack a lunch /snacks and a portable hammock!  

Link to new 2025 Cloudland Canyon post







Disclaimer:
All content provided on Frugal Family Travelers blog is for informational purposes only. The owners of this blog make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site.  The owners of Frugal Family Travelers blog do not share personal information with third-parties and are not responsible for the republishing of the content found on this blog on other Web sites or media without permission.  As with all travel, operating days, times, costs, etc., should be verified prior to departure.


Sunday, April 9, 2017

Lookout Mountain Parkway Series Post 2: Little River Canyon National Preserve





Frugal Family Travelers have been taking readers on a journey through the Lookout Mountain Parkway and along the way have been highlighting areas off the beaten path!   At the heart of the Lookout Mountain Parkway is the Little River Canyon National Preserve.   Within the preserve you will have access to numerous trails, swimming areas, the Little River Canyon, Little River Canyon Center and the spectacular Little River Falls.  Beauty abounds in the preserve.   You will want to plan adequate time to soak up all that it offers.   

Little River Canyon, Little River Canyon Center and Little River Falls

Cost: Free or honor box when applicable. 

Directions to the Little River Canyon Center:

4322 Little River Parkway, Fort Payne, AL 35967 (Note: The canyon may be viewed from various places within the preserve directly off the main road; Little River Falls is a short hike from the Canyon Center or a short 2 minute drive.) 

Little River Canyon Center Hours: M-S: 10-4; Sun.: 1-4
The center features an HD movie about the canyon, exhibits, hiking trails, information about the preserve and a gift shop.  Adjacent to the center, by hike or short drive, is the spectacular Little River Falls!  One can observe the falls from a decked area with seating or take a short trail to get your feet wet and have a closer look.  Be sure to check the center's website for special programs offered throughout the year.  










Disclaimer:
All content provided on Frugal Family Travelers blog is for informational purposes only. The owners of this blog make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site.  The owners of Frugal Family Travelers blog do not share personal information with third-parties and are not responsible for the republishing of the content found on this blog on other Web sites or media without permission.  As with all travel, operating days, times, costs, etc., should be verified prior to departure.

Sunday, December 18, 2016

Looking for a Holiday Getaway? Enjoy this Alabama Oasis

 
Located a little over 4 hours from the Northshore of New Orleans, Chewacla State Park, in Auburn, Al, is the perfect spot for a quick "getaway" in the fall, winter or a full summer experience.  Activities such as mountain biking, camping, hiking, fishing and boating abound in the park and are certain to satisfy the desires of both the thrill seeker and outdoor enthusiast!   One of the prominent features in the park is the 26 acre lake and the 6 cottages, both constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corp. in the 1930's.   One is certain to find a spot for respite at the foot of the water fall created as the water spills over the damn onto the rock laden stream bed below.  In fact, many such spots can be found at Chewacla State Park so consider adding this place to your bucket list!  It won't break the bank and will provide an opportunity to make numerous memories with your Frugal Family Travelers! 

(Be sure to click on all highlighted text within the blog for additional information regarding activities, including websites, special instructions and travel directions!)

Tips: 
Pack water, sunscreen, and insect repellent!!

Note:  This is a great place to picnic!
Directions:

 
 
 

Be sure to check the area for letterboxes!!  To discover more about letterboxing Click Here to read the information previously posted on our blog.
  
 

Disclaimer:
All content provided on Frugal Family Travelers blog is for informational purposes only. The owners of this blog make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site.  The owners of Frugal Family Travelers blog do not share personal information with third-parties and are not responsible for the republishing of the content found on this blog on other Web sites or media without permission.  As with all travel, operating days, times, costs, etc., should be verified prior to departure.

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