Grand Paddle hoping for largest weekend of whitewater rafting

It's going to be a great weekend to enjoy the Chattahoochee River.

The Grand Columbus Whitewater Paddle returns to Columbus for a second year on Friday and Saturday.

The goal of this year's event, known as "The Grand 2.0," is to host more than 1,500 paddlers. Promoters are expecting it to be the largest weekend of whitewater rafting ever in Columbus.

The event is being presented by the Georgia Conservancy, Uptown Columbus, Whitewater Express and Sweetwater Brewing Company.

The Georgia Conservancy is a statewide nonprofit organization whose mission is to protect the state's natural resources.

On Friday at 3 p.m. and 4 p.m., there will be whitewater rafting at discounted prices.

Later that evening, The Loft will host a kickoff party. Doors open at 8 p.m. and acoustic music will be provided by Fire Mountain and Sailing to Denver. There is a $5 charge at the door and all proceeds from the sale of Sweetwater Beer will go to the Georgia Conservancy.

Saturday will be filled with action.

There will be discounted rafting from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

And you don't have to paddle to have fun.

The "This Is America Musical Showcase" begins at 3 p.m. in Woodruff Park and it's free.

For those who would rather avoid riding the rapids, Whitewater Express will lead a flatwater paddle to Oxbow Meadows beginning at 10 a.m.

Every Grand 2.0 paddler receives a complementary wristband, souvenir cup and ticket good for a Sweetwater beer or Coca-Cola soft drink.

After the sun goes down, Whitewater Express employees will put on a "Saturday Night Lights" demonstration at the new section illuminated by stadium lights. The Grand Columbus Whitewater Paddle is one of the Georgia Conservancy's 12 Heartland Rivers of Georgia Paddle series events.

How do I register?

Go to www.georgiaconservancy.org. or www.whitewaterexpress.com. You may also call 706-321-4720.

How good are rafting discounts?

Uptown Columbus says the largest single day of whitewater rafting stands also to be the most affordable. Whitewater Express will be offering rafting for as little as $25 in some time slots.

Will the zip line be operating?

Yes. Check with Whitewater Express to go for a ride.

This story was originally published August 6, 2015 at 10:44 AM with the headline "Grand Paddle hoping for largest weekend of whitewater rafting ."