Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area

"Let’s start big picture here?The mighty Chattahoochee River’s 48 miles that flow through Atlanta’s northern suburbs create a choose-your-own-adventure outdoor environment. There are manicured riverside parks and paths, as well as wild trails on which you’d swear you were nowhere near one of the South’s largest cities. "Shooting the Hooch" (that is, tubing) is a warm weather rite of passage here and luckily, it's warm most of the year. The river is also a haven for fly fishing enthusiasts who cast their lines for rainbow trout and bass, kayakers, birdwatchers and hikers. Any standout features or must-sees?Seeing the river from the shoreline is beautiful and serene, but there's nothing like being out on the water. Choose one of the many licensed, full-service outfitters (such as Shoot the Hooch or Nantahala Outdoor Center) and rent a kayak, canoe or tube. They'll help you put in and pick you up at a designated spot. The river's flow is typically gentle enough even the aquaphobic and children will likely feel at ease. Was it easy to get around? There's so much to explore along the Chattahoochee River, it's smart to make a plan ahead of time. Some of the riverside spaces are rugged and wild, but for those with mobility concerns others, like the Chattahoochee Nature Center, offer paved, graded and boardwalk paths. All said and done, what—and who—is this best for? Anyone who loves being outside will find something to enjoy along the Chattahoochee River, and it's so vast you can't come close to seeing it all in one visit. Identify your priorities—being on the water, fishing, hiking, birding or simply being in nature—and choose the spot that matches." - Melissa Kravitz Hoeffner, Jennifer Bradley Franklin

"The Chattahoochee River is just a short drive from Atlanta proper, but it can feel so much farther once you're immersed in the picturesque beauty of the lush forest and river. Rafting down the river (preferably with a cooler of canned beer in tow) is a must on hot days, so pack your bathing suit. Fishers may enjoy trying to catch rainbow trout and hikers can venture out on several river-adjacent trails—just be sure to pack appropriate footwear." - Jennifer Bradley Franklin