This article is all about Helen Georgia tubing adventures.
If you didn’t know, Helen GA has one of the best locations in the state to go river tubing!
I go to Helen every summer, and I’m sharing everything you need to know to make your tubing experience super fun and memorable.
Let’s dive in.
Where to go Tubing in Helen Georgia
When you tube in Helen you’ll float the Chattahoochee River, which winds right through town.
Your tubing adventure will begin about a mile upriver at one of the local tubing companies, and last 1.5 miles.
You’ll launch off into the river, and float down at a relaxing pace until you reach the exit point downstream.
The route winds under canopy of trees and along riverbanks, through Alpine Helen, and back into the trees.
As you float, you’ll pass cabins, forests, and lots of folks hanging out on the riverbank.
Every time I’ve visited, the river has been full of tubers. So, expect some traffic as you drift downstream.
Tubing Companies in Helen Georgia
Helen Tubing & Waterpark
I’ve had very positive experiences with Helen Tubing every time I book with them. They are located about 1.2 miles upriver of Helen. You can rent tubes and visit their waterpark with slides.
Cool River Tubing
Cool River Tubing is located just about a mile upstream of Helen. You can rent tubes, zip-line, and go on the ropes course all at their Helen location.
What to Know Before You Go Tubing
Floating the river is a very popular pass time in Helen. Here are my top tips for how to prepare to have a great time:
- Check the local weather conditions for the day you want to float.
- Buy your tickets ahead of time online.
- If your group is big, call ahead to reserve your space.
- Think about what you want to leave at home versus in your car.
- Pack a change of clothes for afterwards, you won’t be able to avoid getting wet!
What to Expect When You Arrive at the Tubing Company
The ticket line can get long at the shops during peak months. So, I recommend getting everything signed and paid for before you arrive.
BUT, do stop at the gift shop to rent a push-off stick. You’ll use the stick to steer as you float, because otherwise you’re at the mercy of the current.
Parking & Storage
There is usually free parking at the tubing companies (we love an easy parking situation!). You can rent a locker for a small fee if you don’t want to leave items in your car.
You can leave shoes at the launch point, but it’s really nice to have water shoes in case you need to stand up during shallow parts of the float.
Bathrooms & Changing Rooms
You’ll find bathrooms and changing facilities on the premise. I also spotted picnic areas with tables if you’re bringing food.
Launching Off
After changing and renting your push-off stick, you will be guided to the launch ramp where guides will give you a life jacket and tube, and some basic instructions.
From there, you’ll get into the water and be off on your floating adventure.
Pro Travel Tip: Plan for the float to take anywhere from 2 to 3 hours. I saw 1.5 hours online, but in my experience it takes longer due to other floaters and the pace of the river.
Floating Down The Chattahoochee River
The full float is about 1.5 miles from start to finish.
As you go you’ll pass forests, cabins, and Helen’s Alpine Village. The riverside bars are very popular and get lively in the summer as people love to hang out for drinks.
I love spotting all the cute cabins beside the river, usually with people relaxing in lawn chairs or swimming.
Water level change depending on the weather and where you are in the river. Definitely talk to the guides before you take off to known what to expect en route.
Finishing Your Tubing Adventure
The final landing point of the float will have a guide helping folks get out of the water.
When you get climb out you’ll drop off your tube and take a free shuttle service back to the beginning launch point.
What to Bring for Your Tubing Trip in Helen Georgia
Ok, I am notoriously bad at remembering the essentials when I go tubing so I made a list.
Here is everything I recommend bringing to float.
- Waterproof phone pouch (or leave your phone at home).
- Sun hat.
- Sunglasses.
- Sunscreen.
- Environmentally safe bug spray.
- Waterproof shoes (sandals fall off easily).
- A water bottle that floats and clips to your stuff.
- Towel
- A change of clothes for after the float.
- Snacks (be very careful not to lose packages in the river)
Leave your towel and change of clothes in your locker or vehicle, you won’t really be able to bring them on your tube.
Pro Travel Tip: Use this Helen GA weekend itinerary to plan everything you should see, do, and experience around Helen.
What to Rent at the Tubing Gift Shop
Bring your own snacks and water, but stop at the gift shop to pick up these items.
- Push-off sticks (typically a small fee).
- Straps to tie two tubes together (usually included in the price of your ticket).
A push-off stick will make your experience 100x better. Everyone carries them on the river.
You can easily get stick together with other tubes or the shoreline, so the sticks help you steer out of the way.
When to Tube in Helen Georgia
The tubing season starts around Memorial Day (end of May) and continues through Labor Day (beginning of September).
Contact your tubing company to find out exact dates.
Helen Georgia Tubing FAQs
How long does it take to tube in Helen?
You’ll probably be on the river for 2 to 3 hours depending on the crowd and speed of the river.
What is the weather like in Helen Georgia in the summer?
The weather is generally hot and muggy with lots of sun.
Where can I get tickets to go tubing in Helen?
Visit Helen Tubing or Cool River Tubing for tickets online or in person.
What is the best month to visit Helen, Georgia?
May through September are great months to visit Helen for tubing season.
October is popular for the Helen Octoberfest.
November and December are great months to visit Helen for Christmas.
Helen Georgia Tubing: Final Thoughts
This guide was all about Helen Georgia tubing, and I hope it has been really helpful for you!
Tubing is one of my favorite things to do during the summer in Helen. It is a relaxing and very easy activity if you want to be outdoors but you’re not up for a hike.
Pro Travel Tip: Want to know where to stay in Helen? Explore this incredible hilltop retreat overlooking Alpine Helen.
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