07:24:11, Georgia – Carters Dam is constructed of rock and earth and is the tallest earthen dam east of Mississippi river. It took 15 years to build and was completed in 1977. They blasted through a mountain range and carved out a canyon channel lined with sheer cliffs of solid rock. If you’re into geology then this is something you should see.

I paddled down the canyon to have a look at the dam and then hiked the cliff side. Up there you’ll find drill rods still lodged in the mountainside. Carters Lake is a pretty water, fed by the Coosawattee River and not populated along the shoreline but hurry here because they just installed a new boat landing (see the GPS above) and it’s attracting a lot of watercraft. It will cost you 4 bucks to park. After you inspect the dam then paddle up a finger of Carters Lake to get some piece and quiet amidst steep mountains.

– Steve Tanner