Limestone County: Take A Paddle Adventure Down The Elk River
The following information about the Elk River is taken from https://limestonecounty-al.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/canoe-and-kayaking/
Elkmont, AL
The Limestone County Canoe and Kayak Trail offers a true paddling adventure in North Alabama. This 21.9 mile Class-1 route along the Elk River begins at Elkmont just west of I-65 at Exit 361 and ends at Wheeler Lake at Joe Wheeler State Park.
The beautiful Elk River is the perfect place for canoeing and kayaking in Limestone County. The water is challenging, and the scenery changes with the seasons. In the spring, you will enjoy the white Dogwood, and the Redbud trees blooming along the riverbanks are breathtaking. Scenery along the route includes untouched forests, towering bluffs and peaceful, rolling meadows. With five easy in-and-out points, the Elk River’s water levels are TVA Dam controlled, which means good canoeing even during dry summers.
The route begins at Elkmont, AL a short drive from I-65, at Exit 361. Turn West on Sandlin Road. Once in Elkmont, turn right onto Upper Ft. Hampton Road. Proceed 0.1 miles and turn onto Veto Road. Go 5.2 miles to the Tennessee/Alabama state line. Continue straight for 6.6 miles to the Elk River.
The five sites for easy in-and-out along the river are as follows:
- Site 1 – Veto Road
- Site 2 – AL Hwy 127 (6.2 river miles from Site 1)
- Site 3 – Easter Ferry Road (10.3 river miles)
- Site 4 – AL Hwy 99 (15.9 river miles)
- Site 5 – Elk River Mills (21.9 river miles)
Riders may be picked up at any of the sites. For specific instructions to reach each site, visit https://limestonecounty-al.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/canoe-and-kayaking/.
Richard Martin Rails To Trails
Elkmont, AL
The 10.3-mile trail winds its way past the site of the Battle of Sulphur Creek Trestle. The trail offers a back-to-nature greenway for hikers, bikers, joggers, bird watchers, horseback riders as well as naturalists, students, and historians. The trail head is in the picturesque & historic downtown of Elkmont AL. Trail hours are daylight to sunset. Due to horseback riding on the trails, motorized vehicles are not permitted on trails.
By: Teresa Todd, TMP
Presiden, Athens-Limestone County Tourism Association