The Complete Guide to Tubing the Chattahoochee River in Helen, Georgia

Tubing the Chattahoochee River through Helen is one of those summer traditions that everybody should try at least once. Locals call it "shooting the Hooch." You grab a tube, float through the middle of the Bavarian village, and then drift into stretches of forest with mountain views on both sides. The whole float takes 2 to 3 hours, and it is just as good for families with kids as it is for a group of friends looking for a lazy afternoon on the water.

Helen has two main tubing outfitters, and both of them handle all the equipment, shuttles, and logistics for you.

Cool River Tubing

Cool River Tubing is the only company that offers both a short and long ride option, which is a real advantage if you are bringing young kids or just want a quick float.

Location & Contact:

Main headquarters: 590 Edelweiss Dr., Helen, GA 30545

Additional location: 112 Poplar Stump Rd, Helen, GA (waterpark area)

Phone: (706) 878-2665

Website: coolrivertubing.com

Helen Tubing

Helen Tubing is the other major outfitter in town. They keep things simple with straightforward pricing and a reliable operation.

Location & Contact:

North Office (entrance): 9917 Hwy 75N, Helen, GA 30545

South Office (exit): 685 Brucken St., Helen, GA 30545

Phone: (706) 809-9393

Website: helentubing.com

The official tubing season begins on Memorial Day weekend and extends through Labor Day. However, Cool River operates several weekends before Memorial Day and after Labor Day, depending on weather conditions, so checking their booking calendar ensures you catch available dates.

The peak season runs throughout the summer months (June-August) when water temperatures are most pleasant for recreational floating. During these months, expect crowded conditions on weekends and pleasant temperatures both in the water and air.

Strategic Timing for Your Visit

Weekday vs. Weekend: Weekday visits offer significantly fewer crowds, making your float more peaceful and enjoyable. If crowds are a concern, visiting Monday through Friday is highly recommended. Similarly, arriving early in the day (around 9:00 AM when facilities open) provides less congested conditions than mid-afternoon arrivals.

Water Conditions: The river's flow and depth vary throughout the season. During periods of heavy rainfall, water levels rise and trips move more quickly. Conversely, late summer can bring lower water levels, making the shorter Cool River option more appealing. Both companies monitor conditions and update their websites accordingly.

Weather Planning: Both Helen Tubing and Cool River operate "rain or shine." However, in extreme conditions such as flash floods, operations close until water levels are safe for tubing. No refunds are issued for weather-related closures. Always check the weather forecast and company websites before planning your trip.

Here is how it works. You show up at the Helen Tubing North Office or Cool River's headquarters, buy your tickets, sign a waiver, and get a wristband.

A shuttle bus takes you upriver to the launch point, where staff help you get settled in your tube. From there, the current does the work. You float through downtown Helen past the Bavarian buildings, then out into the quieter wooded sections of the river.

Throughout your journey, the river typically remains shallow enough for non-swimmers to touch bottom, providing added security. Experienced tubers report spotting wildlife including native birds, rabbits, chipmunks, and occasionally deer along the forested banks. The dense canopy of timberland overhead creates natural shade and cooling relief during hot summer days.

Trip Duration and Pace

The typical trip takes 2 to 2.5 hours for full-length floats, though this varies based on water levels and how many times your group stops along the way. Cool River's shorter option lasts 1 to 1.5 hours. The pace is leisurely and relaxing - you're not actively paddling, but simply floating with the current. This self-guided, unstructured nature allows complete freedom to enjoy the experience at your own pace, take photos, or simply relax.

Both Helen Tubing and Cool River include everything necessary for a basic tubing experience:

Inner tube rental

U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket or preserver

Tether straps to connect your tube to friends' tubes

Free shuttle service to and from the river

Both companies offer tubes with or without headrests, and some feature enclosed bottoms for additional safety.

Highly Recommended Items to Bring

Water Shoes: Both tubing companies strongly recommend wearing water shoes or shoes with backs. The river bed may contain sharp rocks, fish hooks, and occasionally glass. Water shoes protect your feet while providing better traction when stepping in and out of the water. Cool River sells water shoes for $13.

Push Stick: A push stick (also called a pole) helps you navigate around rocks and away from the riverbank, preventing your tube from snagging on obstacles. Cool River sells branded push sticks for $5, though you're welcome to bring your own.

Dry Clothes & Towels: Leave a complete change of clothes and towels in your car at the end point (or at home if using shuttle services). You'll be soaking wet at trip's end and will appreciate dry clothing before the drive home.

Sunscreen & Bug Spray: Apply waterproof sunscreen before launching, as you'll be exposed to sun for 2-3 hours without shade in many sections. Bug spray helps protect against insects, particularly near the riverbanks.

Waterproof Phone Case: Protect your phone with a waterproof case if you wish to bring it. Many tubers use waterproof cases to take photos or listen to music on waterproof speakers.

Coolers & Food: Note that Helen Tubing prohibits coolers from being brought to the river. However, Cool River allows cooler tubes available for $25 rental, perfect for keeping drinks cold. Bring snacks and plenty of water to stay hydrated during your float.