Adventure Out

Adventure Out Chattooga River – Bull Sluice Rapid By Peter McIntosh

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.

On this adventure we’re going on a nice easy trip to the famous, 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 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

lot of rain, rock hopping across this brook can be interesting. The best plan is to wear shorts and river shoes that you don’t mind getting wet, then crossing is easy. From there it’s just a hop skip and a jump to the massive boulders which funnel the river into the sluice. This is by far the most scenic place to hang out. You can see upstream and down with a superlative view of the rapids. this would be my choice for a picnic, you’ll want to linger here if it’s a nice day. But if you pack it in, pack it out!

Now do keep in mind this is a popular spot, especially on weekends. Folks on raft trips get out here to scout the rapids, with the guide explaining the best route through the foaming hydraulics. And please allow the rafting company photographers to get to their preferred shooting spots. I’m a firm believer in letting these nice people earn a living. And if you want to watch the rafters and kayakers negotiate the rapids, get there between noon and 3:00 pm on weekends. Happy hiking! Not a moment too soon, here’s my poem for June: Get there around noon or a little time after, To have fun catching rays and watching some rafters. It’s a nice little hike, I don’ want to hear any grumbling, Let’s go to a place where the white water is tumbling.

P.S. The Chattooga is a National Wild and Scenic River. If you’re interested in protecting the amazing natural resource, please consider supporting the Chattooga Conservancy. It’s a great organization. www.chattoogariver.org Getting there: From US 441 and US 76 E. in Clayton, go 8 miles on 76 E. until crossing the river. Just after the bridge, turn left into the well marked parking area. To see more of Peter’s photos, or if you have a question or comment: www.mcintoshmountains.com