Float Down and Climb Up at Lake Martin - Alabama Scenic River Trail

52 Weekends on the Water

On the Alabama Scenic River Trail, there’s something new to experience every weekend of the year.

Float Down and Climb Up at Lake Martin

Region

Central Alabama

Bodies of Water to Explore

Tallapoosa River, Lake Martin

Best Season

Summer

Skill Level

Paddles: 1 – no skill, desire to learn; 2 – moderate, knowledge needed; 3 – advanced, know whats up

Distances

6 miles boating down the Tallapoosa River
72 minutes/53.8 miles by car with Google Maps for planned route

Trip Duration

Overnight, Weekend Trip

Recommended Put In & Take Out

Outfitters Nearby

Use Float Alabama for paddling trips (by appointment Thursday through Sunday).

Trip Summary

An afternoon paddle down the Tallapoosa River is how this weekend begins. You’ll enjoy the natural beauty of one of the cleanest rivers in Alabama, followed by dinner lakeside at Kowaliga Restaurant. The next day hike to and climb up the Smith Mountain Fire Tower, after which you’ll be thirsty—and ready to listen to music and have lunch at Chuck’s Marina. A swim at Lake Martin Beach is the perfect way to finish off the weekend.

Trail Highlights

Day 1

Stop 1: Horseshoe Bend National Military Park
Stop 2: Book an afternoon trip with Float AL on the Tallapoosa
Stop 3: Kowaliga on Lake Martin for dinner
Stop 4: Stay at Wind Creek State Park on Lake Martin

Day 2

Stop 5: Smith Mountain Fire Tower Trail
Stop 6: Chuck’s Marina for lunch
Stop 7: Lake Martin Beach

Side Ventures & Optional Activities to Add to Your Trip

Wind Creek State Park is a great place to camp and fish offering a variety of services to its visitors.
Explore Lake Martin Attractions
Want a day planned by a local? Check out the latest post from Lake Martin Tourism Here!

Bonus Sightings

Fishing is the thing to do out on Lake Martin and popular catches include Crappie, Bluegill, and Yellow Perch. For more information on Lake Martin fishing check out the Outdoor Alabama website.
Wind Creek State Park is also a stop on Alabama’s Piedmont Plateau Birding Trail

Non-Paddler Recommendations

There is plenty to do in the Lake Martin area. Be sure to check out the Explore Lake Martin website for the latest events, shopping, and newest attractions!