The Conasauga River flows with a lively spirit through Dalton, Georgia, inviting adventurers to engage with its current—both literally and figuratively. This annual Cleanup and Paddle event is more than a chance to glide down clear waters; it’s a call to action, blending environmental stewardship with an active outdoor experience. The river dares you to match its pace while working side by side with a community determined to protect and restore this Southern Appalachian gem.

Starting near Dalton, the river stretches through rugged terrain that challenges paddlers and cleanup crews alike. The paddle route commonly covers approximately 6 miles of mixed calm pools and swift sections. This stretch demands basic paddling skills, as some rapids push forward with a quiet insistence, testing control and focus. Surrounding forested banks reach down to the water’s edge, leaves whispering in the breeze, hiding debris that volunteers seek out and remove.

The cleanup portion adds a practical layer. Participants are armed with gloves, grabbers, and bags, prepared to dive into the river’s edge and brush lines where trash clings stubbornly. The environment here fights back—not with menace, but quiet resilience—and every piece of removed waste shifts the balance toward health. The muddy banks may be slippery; expect to get a little dirty. This hands-on effort bridges the gap between enjoying nature and respecting its fragile state.

Arriving early maximizes your experience. Morning light slants through the trees, illuminating patches of wildflowers while the river coolly slips past. Hydration is key: carry a water bottle secured in your kayak or bring a hydration pack. Footwear should grip on wet, uneven riverbeds. Quick-dry clothing and sun protection are critical—Georgia’s sun doesn’t dawdle by midday.

The paddle isn’t a race. It’s a measured engagement, responding to the river’s movements and the current’s persistent push. Stops along calm stretches allow teams to collect litter and admire undisturbed wildlife—herons, kingfishers, and the occasional shy river otter. These moments ground the adventure firmly in purpose.

After the paddle, hands are scratched but spirits lifted. The Reset is tangible: each removed bottle or fragment retrieved feeds a local commitment to preserving the river’s flow, clean and inviting for every adventurer to come. This event is for anyone ready to get involved—not just experts but those eager to learn, explore, and give back to a river that rewards respect with beauty and challenge.

If your next trip includes a mix of paddle and purpose, Dalton’s Conasauga River Cleanup and Paddle invites you to be firmly part of the story, where every bend of the river, every piece of trash cleared, becomes a step toward a healthier outdoors.