This former mill town is experiencing an exciting renaissance. Starting in the 19th century, textile mill owners dammed the Chattahoochee for hydro power, but in this century, municipal leaders removed the dams and let the river’s natural rapids flow free.
The 2.5-mile stretch is now the longest urban whitewater course in the world. An upriver power plant controls the water flow, so rapids strength depends on the time of day making it perfect for both experts wanting adrenaline and families looking for tamer waters.