EXPERIENCE PORTERDALE
The City of Porterdale sits astride the Yellow River on S.R. 81 in Newton County. It is approximately 36 miles east of Atlanta, and 47 miles south of Athens. Porterdale was founded in 1830 and developed as a mill town beginning with a grist mill, saw mill and foundry.
Later, Bibb Manufacturing Company operated what was at the time the largest twine mill up through the end of World War II. The mill was the county’s main employer, and operated the areas only fully staffed hospital, provided recreation programs for the mill workers and their children, and built beautifully designed schools and churches within the village limits.
QUICK LINKS
FEATURED LOCATION
River Front Road Access Point
This section of the Yellow River Water Trail begins at Porterdale’s Riverfront Park along Riverfront Road, where there are picnic tables and benches here courtesy of the City of Porterdale. At normal water levels, boats can be launched above the class I-II shoals located below the dam.
This section transitions from shoals to a long and scenic flatwater paddle with very few sandbars or places to stop along the route. One area along the riverbank is home to a large number of vultures that are frequently seen sunning themselves in the tops of the trees.
If you paddle quietly, you may be able to sneak up on other wildlife such as North American River Otters, Belted Kingfishers, and even one of Georgia’s threatened species such as Bald Eagles or Alligator Snapping Turtles.
Length: 10 miles from River Front Road Access to Hwy 212 Access. Difficulty: Flatwater to Class I-II depending on water level. Suitable for beginners / intermediates prepared for a long paddle. Paddling Time: 4 hours.
GET IN TOUCH WITH US
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 667
Porterdale, GA 30070
Physical Address:
2800 Main Street
Porterdale, GA 30014
Phone Numbers:
(770) 786-2217
(770) 786-5171
Everify # 290145 Authorization Date: 12/15/2009
