Enjoy the outdoors at the Oconee River Greenway

MILLEDGEVILLE, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – A few minutes from downtown Milledgeville lies a community treasure, the Oconee River Greenway. 41NBC’s Amanda Castro took a ride in a kayak down the river to find out what makes the greenway so special.

A smooth, relaxing ride down the Oconee River is one way you can enjoy the outdoors in Milledgeville.

"People are looking for ways to connect with their community on a deeper level and getting outside and being physically active often times with family and friends is a good way to make that happen," Adam Heagy with Oconee Outfitters said.

Heagy loves helping people connect with nature at the Oconee River Greenway.

After a quick lesson on paddling, it was time to put on a life jacket and hit the water.

"It’s flat water, easy going. There are no rapids," Heagy said. "You’re not going to get in and just tip your boat and have to swim and things like that."

Brothers Dylan and Carson Smith spent their last day of summer vacation fishing out of their kayaks.

"What do you like most about being on the river?" Castro asked. "The scenery and the fish," Dylan Smith said.

Back on dry land, you can walk, run, or ride along the two miles of paved trail.

"I like to bird watch a lot, so in that time of the year I’ll come out one day a week to bird watch and then I’ll come down and ride once or twice a week," Chris Skelton said.

"I love this area. I love the river. I love the outdoors. Just enjoy enjoy being out here," Sammie Dessau said.

Heagy called the greenway a community treasure.

"It’s really just an opportunity for citizens of the area to get out and participate in active recreation, promote physical health, and enjoyment of nature," he said.

Whether you’re looking for peace and quiet or an exciting adventure, the greenway is the place where you can float through the Antebellum Capital.

It is important to be safe while enjoying the river. Heagy said you should always wear a life jacket, be aware of your surroundings, and have at least one buddy with you.

Oconee Outfitters offers kayak rentals. To learn more about the store, you can visit its Facebook page or call (478) 452-3890.

August 14, 2014 | Posted in