Floridians escape Covid-19 to Georgia for safe adventure while whitewater rafting on the Chattahoochee River and ziplining across state lines.

May 22nd, 2020

Looking for a safe way to escape the Coronavirus restlessness? Mix nature and adventure on the Chattahoochee River in Columbus, Georgia.  Voted by USA Today as one of the Top-12 man-made adventures in the world, Whitewater Express will guide you down the river as well as zip you over it into Alabama.  With adaptations and courses for every level of thrill seeker, the company has something for everyone.

As society begins its return to normalcy from the pandemic, the number one priority is safety.  This is evident in Whitewater Express’ approach to reopening.  Before even entering its store, you must sign a Covid waiver proclaiming that you are healthy and free from the virus or exposure to it.  The store itself is very clean and the staff make it a point to keep their distance.  After using the equipment, you drop them off next to a sanitation bucket where staff thoroughly clean paddles, helmets and vests.

Our trip began on the Chattahoochee River, which is about 2.5 miles upstream.  The river acts as the boundary between Georgia and Alabama.  In 2013 a $24.4 million restoration project began to clean up the river and its surrounding areas.  In the morning, the water volume is low giving more of a mild river rafting experience, however later in the afternoon the water volume rises when the dam is released.  This makes for a more extreme and adventurous ride, giving rafters the experience of riding through grade V rapids.  Still, while the thrill of the river is enough to warrant a bang for your buck, there’s also significant history that can be divulged by your guide. Our guide, Harris, literally knew everything about the river and the surrounding area including its significance during the Civil War.

However, if rafting isn’t enough to scratch your adventurous itch, the ziplining they offer should do the trick.  The trip begins in Georgia 12 stories high, then sends it guests flying across the river into Alabama before returning to Georgia.  There are several zips and bridges that explore the canopies of Phenix City, Alabama and even a zipline obstacle course for kids.

Additional activities at Whitewater Express include kayak rentals and fly-fishing lessons.  No matter your adventure level, Whitewater Express has something for you to safely escape the Covid-19 boredom.

For more information visit https://www.whitewaterexpress.com