Kayak Through This Unique Abandoned Mine Tunnel In Georgia

Georgia is filled with outdoor adventures for the whole family, from stunning waterfall hikes to nighttime swamp tours. But this particular adventure in Georgia might just be the end-all, be-all for nature, excitement, and adrenaline-pumping fun. If you’re brave enough to tackle this underground river and can find adventure in kayaking or canoeing through an abandoned mine, this river run is for you. Kayaking the Etowah River Tunnel, an abandoned mine tunnel in Georgia, may just be the most exciting thing you do all year!

What Makes the Etowah River So Special

Floating down the Etowah River in Georgia can be one of the best days you’ll have when the temperatures are warm. With gorgeous scenery, cool, clear water, and a nice breeze, it’s a wonderful way to cool off when the weather heats up. The 164-mile river runs from the Blue Ridge Mountains near Dahlonega in North Georgia to the confluence in Rome, Georgia.

Those who choose to float down the river will find a wonderfully unexpected surprise at the end: an abandoned mine tunnel. The river itself is surrounded by beauty, but the tunnel offers an air of mystery!

The History Behind the Tunnel

For those entering the river at the Castleberry Bridge, less than four miles away, you will find an old, abandoned mine you can actually kayak through, perhaps one of the most interesting abandoned places in Georgia. The Etowah River mine tunnel has been around since the 1800s, when miners searched for gold at the bottom of the river. The tunnel was completed in 1930, effectively rerouting a section of the river through a mountain—no easy feat! Today, the abandoned tunnel still exists, allowing kayakers to experience the adventure of a lifetime as they travel through it.

What the Tunnel Experience Is Really Like

From the entrance to the exit of the tunnel, it’s only about a quarter of a mile long, so don’t worry if you are afraid of the dark—it goes by quickly. This underground river in Georgia will bring you right through the mine. But be prepared as you travel through the tunnel—the rapids do pick up a bit inside and will seemingly slingshot you out at the end. The combination of the bright sunlight and small rapids is an adrenaline rush.

Tips for Kayaking the Etowah River Tunnel Safely

We recommend using a headlamp while you kayak through an abandoned tunnel, especially on your first pass, because it will be nearly pitch-black, with just the sound of the rapids guiding you. It’s exhilarating, and you will need the light to see any debris. It should also be noted that before you enter the tunnel, get out of the kayak and look through—if you see a tiny speck of light, the tunnel is clear, if you don’t—debris may have piled up inside and you will need to move it out of the way as you travel through. It's also necessary to check river conditions before your trip. If the water levels are too high, you may not be able to pass under the tunnel safely. If you're unsure or don't want to take the tunnel, there's a bypass route available.

Sound like something that you’ll enjoy doing? Head to the Etowah River today by the Castleberry Bridge and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime. This is one adventure you won’t want to miss! For more information about the trail, visit the official Etowah River Trail website. You can also check out the water trail map on the AllTrails listing, which includes reviews, updates, and tips. Have you kayaked the underground river through this abandoned mine tunnel, the Etowah River Tunnel, in Georgia before? If not, share this article with a fellow nature lover and begin planning your trip. Looking for more adventures? Check out this hike to an abandoned quarry in Georgia.