Canoe and Kayak Trail

Travel down the scenic Elk River which empties into the Tennessee River. It is the perfect place for canoeing and kayaking in Limestone County, Alabama. The water is challenging and the scenery is beautiful. As you travel the Elk River in the fall, you will see beautiful fall colors, especially during October. In the spring, the breathtaking white dogwood and redbud trees bloom along the riverbanks. Launch your canoe and kayak near the Tennessee state line in Veto, Alabama. 

Stop for a picnic and enjoy the beautiful landscape or have lunch at local restaurants located at Maples Bridge or Elk River Mills Park.

The Canoe and Kayak Trail is a class 1 stream, with towering bluffs, untouched forests, and rolling meadows. The route begins at Elkmont, Alabama just west of I-65 at Exit 361, and is 21.9 miles along the scenic Elk River with five easy in-and-out points. Elk River water levels are TVA Dam controlled, which means good canoeing even during dry summers.

Directions

The route begins at Elkmont, AL, which is located, a short drive from I-65, Exit 361. Turn West on Sandlin Road. Once in Elkmont, turn right onto Upper Ft. Hampton Road. Proceed .1 miles and turn onto Veto Road. Go 5.2 miles to the Tennessee/Alabama Stateline. Continue straight for 6.6 miles to the Elk River.

There are five sites for easy in and out along the river.

  • Site 1 – Veto Road
  • Site 2 – AL Hwy 127 (6.2 river miles from Site 1)
  • Site 3 – Easter Ferry Road (10.3 river miles)
  • Site 4 – AL Hwy 99 (15.9 river miles)
  • Site 5 – Elk River Mills (21.9 river miles)

Riders may be picked up at either of the sites.

  • Go back to Elkmont on Veto Road, Turn right in Elkmont on Upper Ft. Hampton Road.
  • Go .9 miles to AL Hwy 127 – Site 2
  • Continue to Site 3 by traveling 3.1 miles to the river.

Parks & Recreation Quick Links

Cowford Campground

Rails to Trails

Canoe & Kayak Info

Info

Trail Hours
Daylight - Sunset

 

Access Location
Sportsmans Park Canoe & Kayak Launch

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