Entrance road to Chattahoochee River recreation area reopens months after storm damage

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — An entrance road to the Whitewater portion of the East Palisades and Powers Island step-down ramp at Cochran Shoals reopened Wednesday after a closure in early 2023.

The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area closed the entry in January due to safety concerns prompted by storm damage and erosion.

The CRNRNA said “storm damage undercut the route,” which prompted them to close the entry to vehicle access, though the hiking trails stayed open.

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Now, the CRNRA will allow vehicle access, but is warning visitors that resource damage and other safety issues may cause the entrance to be closed again as the park plans long-term for the site.

“We are excited to start the season by re-opening these important access points and offering visitors an improved step-down ramp paid for with the funds that visitors pay,” said Superintendent Ann Honious. “Nantahala Outdoor Center, our concessionaire, will begin rentals, with full-time operations starting Memorial Day weekend.”

Honious said that while the entrance reopens, parking must be in designated areas, and if the lots are full to consider alternate units to park or visit. Illegally parked vehicles will be subject to citations.

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In addition to the reopening of the Whitewater entrance, CRNRA said repairs on the step-down ramp at Powers Island is also complete, “just in time for summer, reopening by Memorial Day.”

Access to the river for tubers, rafters, and boaters was paid for with park entrance fees, according to the CRNRA.

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