tu canoe rentals

We celebrated the close of the season with Jimmy at Tu Canoe rentals this weekend. It was our first kayaking trip down the West Chickamauga and it was beyond our expectations. Jimmy spends hours keeping the creek passable by cutting up log jams. We did the 10 mile trip (there is a shorter section available also) and the area was so peaceful. Our trip took up through the park and the farmlands of Chickmauga and Ft Oglethorpe. I would highly recommend this outfitter!!

It would be worthwhile to visit this spot JUST to see the historic Lee and Gordon's Mill, which was established in 1847 and was a functioning corn mill until 1990. The young couple manning the store were really proud to show us the old mill machinery and its workings. That and they dragged a 17-foot canoe out to the edge of the creek for us in 95 degree heat.We were visiting family Chattanooga and wanted to do something on the water with the kids (ages 11 - 15) that didn't cost a fortune. As we researched local activities, this canoe rental company -- which blends an outdoor activity with important local history -- seemed like a great alternative. The canoe rental offers two options: 1) Head downstream and paddle through the Chickamauga Battlefield and have the canoe company retrieve you about four hours later.2) Head upstream for about an hour and return to the mill.The two alternatives are pretty mutually exclusive as the creek is dammed at the mill, so you either put in above or below the dam. The downstream tour costs $40 for a canoe and the upstream rental costs $17. Call to check on the kayak rentals, they have single and double kayak options.Our kids were EXTREMELY reluctant (whiny actually) to go out and be active on such a hot day. But once we got on the river and got going, they started to enjoy the experience. The creek is extremely calm and no real paddling experience or talent is necessary.We found some rope swings along the way and those became the highlight of our trip. Beware that WE MAY HAVE BEEN TRESPASSING! We climbed on someone's dock and had a great time swinging into the creek, both traveling up and down the creek. By the time we were done, everyone in the canoe had their swing time and had cooled off. It was the high point of the trip and we certainly beat the heat during the entire activity. It was cool on the creek and there was plenty of shade.Immediately afterward, we went to visit the Chickamauga Battlefield. It is well organized and extremely impressive (rates another review).It was a wonderful afternoon with kids. Total cost? $17. Call and make reservations now. And visit the battlefield!