Features:

Your adventure is 7 miles in length and averages 3 to 4 hours
(or longer if you tip over often). 

75% of the Coosa River below Jordan Dam to downtown Wetumpka is flat water, the other 25% is class II/III whitewater divided into 4 distinct sections.  

Section 1- Jordan Dam to River Falls.  Jordan Dam, completed in 1928, a 100-foot wall of concrete provides the backdrop for the beginning of your trip.  One mile of flatwater paddling from Jordan Dam to the first set of shoals (Class II rapids)  known as River Falls is a good warm up and enables you to become familiar with your kayak.

Section 2 - River Falls to Moccasin Gap. The River Falls rapids are the first "fall line" on the Coosa River below Jordan.  River Falls consists of several Class II rapids before and after numerous islands exploding with wildlife and 100-year-old Cypress trees. Different routes around the islands make for excitement and scenery changes no matter how many times you paddle the river.  After this fall line it is approximately a 1 mile flat water paddle to Moccasin Gap.

Section 3 - Moccasin Gap to Pipeline.  Moccasin Gap is a rock island you encounter about halfway through your trip. The name "Moccasin Gap" gives the perception that the island is large, in actuality it is only 50 yards wide and 25 yards long.  Small in size,  big on adventure, river right of “The Gap” is a Class III rapid; river left is a Class II. For the seasoned whitewater veteran the Gap is a great play spot! If the Gap is too intimidating to novice paddlers, you can always portage (carry your boat over the island).  Paddlers find the Gap a perfect spot for people watching, picnicking or swimming on the south side of the island. Once you leave Moccasin Gap it's approximately a 1 mile flat water paddle to the Pipeline set of rapids. 

Section 4 -  Pipeline to Wetumpka Falls.  Unbeknownst to most paddlers, a gas pipeline crosses the Coosa River a mile below Moccasin Gap. You may notice a small pipeline sign signifying the beginning of a series of three rapids.  The first rapid of the three is cleverly called "Pipeline" and often exercises your ability to pick a line and challenges your paddling skills.  The second rapid is most often referred to as the "Big House Rapid", you'll understand.  The third rapid is known as the "Corn Creek Rapid" where Corn Creek actually enters the Coosa River on river left.  Upon leaving Corn Creek you have just over a mile of flat water paddling to the last fall line/rapid on the Coosa River known as Wetumpka Falls.  Water flows from Jordan Dam, as well as Thurlow and Walter Bouldin Dams entering the river 9 miles south of Wetumpka Falls and the Jones Bluff Lock and Dam near Selma determines whether you experience a Class II rapid or a lake. 

River Flows:

River flows are controlled the Alabama Power Company (APC) via water releases through Jordan Dam. Measured in cubic feet per second (cfs), scheduled recreational and fishery flows range between 2,000 cfs and 10,000 cfs.  Flows are never lower than 2000 cfs thanks in part to the endangered Toulotoma Magnifica Snail.   Flows can exceed 10,000 cfs dependent upon rain, time of year, and power generation schedules.  To verify flows contact APC via 1-800-LAKES11 (1-800-525-3711) and enter options for Jordan Dam on the Coosa River.  The website APCSHORLINES.COM as well as a downloadable APP (Smartlakes) are also available to help plan your paddling trips.  As always you can call Coosa River Adventures for the most up to date information.  

2000 cfs :
Our lowest flow lets you explore the most beautiful river.  Lower water exposes more of the river banks, grass beds and rock formations.  More islands, more places to stop and more (although smaller) rapids.  More paddling at lower flows but never do you have to drag your boat.  

4000 cfs :
A very comfortable flow creating numerous Class II rapids. The water level/depth increases by a foot from the lowest flow.  Less paddling than the lowest flow.  

6000 cfs :
More water means more developed rapids and less paddling in the flat water sections.  An excellent flow for a novice or experienced whitewater paddler. Be prepared to get wet!

8000 and 10000 cfs :
Nearly all sandbars and gravel bars go underwater at these levels.  Trips don't last as long.  You can still stop at numerous islands especially Moccasin Gap. Intermediate and expert paddlers love this flow for the curling Class III rapid at the Gap.  Novice paddlers may be intimidated! No paddling required in the flat water sections.  

Safety is no accident. Use the buddy system. Always Wear Your PFDs! If in doubt, scout!