Spooky stories on the river

    Get ready to hear some of the spookiest stories on the river.
     The Tugaloo River Water Trail (TRWT) will sponsor a Spooky Story Paddle on Saturday, Oct.23 beginning at 4:30 p.m. at the Owl Swamp pull out on Toccoa Creek.
    “For all these years,” says lcoal historian and author Kelly Vickers, “we have collected so many stories from Cherokee life along the Tugaloo River.
    “Most of these we share on our regular paddles, but there are some we hold back because they are ‘Spooky Stories.’ Now, we are ready to share those as well,” Vickers said.
    “Since it is fall and close to Halloween, it’s probably the best season to tell these for the first time, especially when it’s later in the evening when the sun is setting over the swamp — the exact time when the Cherokee Ghost Dance would take place,” he said.
    “So, join us,” says TRWT co-chair Angie Ramage “for this short but fun paddle in and out of the Owl Swamp area.
    “We’ll hear some of the very stories that the Cherokee have passed down for generations. Owl Swamp is one of those areas where wildlife can be safely viewed and late in the afternoon is the perfect time,” Ramage said.
    “After we pull out at Owl Swamp, we’ll all drive to Broken Bridges for a bonfire, S’mores and some warm cider or cocoa,” Ramage said.
    “Bring a carved pumpkin that lights up and Toccoa Mayor Evan Hellenga will judge your entries,” she said.
    “There will be a prize for the winner. It’s sure to be a fun evening on the Tugaloo River Water Trail,” Ramage said.
    The cost is  $10 per person.
    Be sure to bring a snack you can eat on the water/river and as always, your warmer paddling gear including your Personal Flotation Device (pfd )and plenty of water.
    Remember, the lake will be cooler in late October, so dress appropriately for the weather. If rain is in the forecast, we’ll cancel this event.
    For more information go to www.tugalooriverwatertrail.org or follow us on Facebook.