Outdoors
Adventure Out
Chattooga River – Bull Sluice Rapid By Peter McIntosh
this adventure we’re going on a nice easy trip to the Onfamous, around these parts anyway, Bull Sluice Rapid
on the Chattooga River. This legendary class 5 cascade can be viewed nicely from the South Carolina side of the river or the Georgia side. Both sides are accessed from a parking area in South Carolina just past the Chattooga River Bridge on US 76 East. The South Carolina river access is by far the easiest. There is a
nice gravel footpath, about ¼ mile in length, descending from the parking area that leads to an observation point above the river. From here you can climb out on the rocks as long as you’re careful. And along this path there is a cutback to the left descending to a boaters takeout point. There is a nice sandy beach here and it’s a great place to take kids for skipping rocks, dipping their toes in the water or having a picnic. The Georgia side is a little more difficult but not much. This side is accessed by descending the stairs from the parking area, crossing back over the bridge and entering the forest on the Chattooga River Trail. You’ll follow this trail a short way, a couple of hundred yards at most. The path curves around almost 180 degrees and before it turns again, look for an unblazed side trail descending on the right. Follow this path down to the rivers edge and then along the river, over a fallen tree or two, up towards Bull Sluice. Along this path you’ll come to a big rock overhang, a rock house to some, referred to as “Mr. Joker Grotto,” named after a beloved river dog. Then comes the tricky part, crossing Pole Creek. If there’s been a
Peter McIntosh is an accomplished professional photographer. His photography is displayed in collections across the country. His passion for nature and the outdoors is what fuels his column. His work is available as fine art prints. Peter offers one on one and small group instruction on camera operation and photography. To see more of Peter’s photos, or if you have a question or comment, visit Peter’s website: www.mcintoshmountains.com
30 - www.laurelofnortheastgeorgia.com - June 2022
