Chattooga River Trail: Nicholson Ford to Rock Gorge

The Chattooga was designated a wild and scenic river in 1974. It is one of the longest and most spectacular free-flowing mountain rivers in the Southeast. Over a distance of 50 miles, the river descends an average of 49 feet per mile from its headwaters in North Carolina to the state line between South Carolina and Georgia.

We will hike approximately 4.5 miles to our camp up river from Rock Gorge. There are several nice flat campsites beside the river where we'll camp. Just a short hike up river are some pretty little shoals, with large boulders to allow us to be within the arms of the river, without getting wet.

Since the days are short, it'll be nice to climb on these boulders at night to enjoy some star gazing, when we're not around the campfire. We have two harmonica players and a guitarist already, so if there's any musicians out there who can play an instrument, we would more than welcome you to our fire. Singers are always welcome as well. 

This is a relatively easy backpacking trip intended to just enjoy nature beside the river. We do expect "the team" to contribute with the chores of gathering and cutting up dead wood for the fire. Since it'll be getting dark early, and it is a winter backpacking trip, a fire is a welcome treat, as well as a great way to treat water and cook dinner. Many filters these days are worthless in freezing weather, so a fire is more than just caveman t.v., and a way to stay warm. Little plug there.

We will allow up to 2 well behaved dogs on the trip.

Will be provided at the Carpool.