The Ultimate Water Adventure Getaway in Clayton, Georgia: Rivers, Lakes, and Waterfalls in the North Georgia Mountains
The North Georgia Mountains are often celebrated for their scenic hikes but if you know where to look, water adventures can become the highlight of your getaway.
From whitewater rafting on the wild Chattooga River to peaceful paddleboarding near Tallulah Gorge State Park and sunset cruises on Lake Rabun, this region offers a rare mix of adrenaline and tranquility – all within minutes of the small town of Clayton.
And at the center of it all is your perfect home base: Beechwood Inn – where your adventure begins each morning and unwinds beautifully each evening.
Whitewater Rafting the Chattooga River – Adventurous and Breath-taking
For those craving a true adventure, rafting the Chattooga River is simply unforgettable –
The Chattooga River is one of the few rivers in the country protected by the National Wild & Scenic Rivers Act. Flowing along the Georgia and South Carolina border it is a rarity where adventure and raw natural beauty come together in a way that feels completely untamed. With guided rafting trips through Class II–V rapids, this is one of the most iconic whitewater experiences in the Southeast and yes, it’s as exhilarating as it sounds!
We recommend NOA – Nantahala Outdoor Adventures to guide you down the river. You’ll experience that the most memorable part of the trip, is not just the whitewater thrill, but the stunning river canyon scenery you can’t access any other way.
NOA offers a full day or half day tours with two distinct whitewater rafting experiences, each with its own mix of scenery, excitement, and challenge.
- For first-time rafters looking for a fun splash – Section 3 with Class II-III rapids and beautiful wilderness scenery.
- For those seeking the thrill of bigger rapids and a more technical ride, Section 4 delivers steep drops, powerful whitewater, and the legendary Five Falls. You will not be disappointed!
The adventure of the Wild and Scenic Chattooga River is just 10 minutes east from Beechwood Inn. If whitewater rafting is not your thing, you can still experience the Chattooga River Trail near Russell Bridge – a scenic, relatively easy hike through the bordering the historic river corridor. Or simply park and walk to the river’s edge, maybe splash your feet in, take-in the view and take a picture!
Paddleboarding Near Tallulah Gorge – Peaceful, Scenic and Unexpected
Just 15 minutes from Beechwood Inn, Tallulah Gorge State Park offers a completely different kind of water experience. Scenic rim trails, dramatic cliffs and waterfalls overlook, a challenging gorge floor trek, and a suspension bridge 80 feet above the river.
But beyond this area of the gorge itself, by the Terrora Trail within the state park, there are calm glassy waters that create the perfect setting for paddleboarding or kayaking. It is a slow and powerful experience to be surrounded by towering cliffs. You can also take a relaxing walk of the trails and take in the views from the ground. There’s the 1-mile Terrora trail loop or the 3-mile Shortline Trail.
This is one of those “hidden gem” – you’ll be surprised by how peaceful and powerful it feels to be surrounded by mountains and overlook into Lake Tallulah. It is worth the visit!
Ask your innkeepers at Beechwood Inn for local rental recommendations for paddleboard or kayak providers. Must reserve in advance.
Lake Burton Boat Day Sunset Cruise – Effortless, Elevated, Memorable
For the perfect balance of relaxation and nature’s playground, Lake Burton is it – with wide-open mountain views it is the ideal setting for a boating day into the sunset.
Ease into the day on the lake on a pontoon boat rental to cruise onto calm open waters. Drop anchor in a quiet cove for a swim, float, relax, and soak in the sun. Explore different pockets of the lake, enjoying the views and the rhythm.
Indulge in the best way – request Beechwood Inn to prepare your gourmet snacks & wine pairing to bring onboard as you ease into golden hour on the water – the best time of the day. The energy softens, the lake quiets and the light turns golden, slowing down naturally. One of the most beautiful ways to experience lake life.
Ask your innkeepers at Beechwood Inn for local boat rental and marinas’ recommendations or guided private boat tours. Must reserve in advance.
Waterfall Hikes – Scenic, Refreshing and Serene
No North Georgia Mountains getaway is complete without chasing waterfalls!
Waterfalls in North Georgia are among the most diverse and scenic in the Southeast. Whether you’re hiking, photographing, or just soaking in the view, this is the ultimate destination for waterfall lovers.
Our go-to waterfalls hike recommendations:
- Minnehaha Falls – One of the most photographed in Georgia and a must see! It’s a fairly easy 5-10 minute walk to the hidden waterfall but on an incline.
- Panther Falls Trailhead and Angel Falls – Enjoy an easy hike with the perk of two waterfalls in one trail within the lush forest around Lake Rabun.
- Hemlock Falls – A scenic 2-mile trail bordering Moccasin Creek to a series of cascades to the 15-foot waterfall. Beautiful grounds by Moccasin Creek State Park in Lake Burton.
Ask your innkeepers at Beechwood Inn more about hikes and waterfalls nearby.
Add a Picnic Experience to make your waterfall hike even more memorable. Picnic Experience
Beechwood Inn makes it easy – combining curated details, scenic locations, and effortless planning so you can simply enjoy.
Ready to Experience This?
Whether you’re rafting wild rivers, gliding across still water, or chasing waterfalls, your perfect mountain escape starts at Beechwood Inn – turn your adventure into something unforgettable.
