NORTH CAROLINA RIVER RUNS

Last Updated: January 23, 2026

North Carolina is a haven for whitewater and kayaking enthusiasts, with a variety of rivers offering thrilling runs for all skill levels. One popular destination is the Nantahala River, known for its Class II-III rapids and stunning scenery in the Nantahala National Forest. This river is perfect for beginners and families, with reliable water levels year-round thanks to releases from the Nantahala Dam. For a more challenging experience, the French Broad River near Asheville provides Class IV rapids and beautiful mountain views. Be sure to check the USGS streamflow levels for the Nantahala and French Broad rivers to ensure optimal conditions for your adventure.

For a truly unforgettable whitewater experience, head to the Chattooga River on the border of North Carolina and South Carolina. This iconic river offers Class III-V rapids and the opportunity to paddle through lush wilderness and stunning gorges. Safety is paramount on these more advanced runs, so be sure to wear proper gear, including a helmet and a PFD, and consider going with a guide if you're new to whitewater kayaking. With its diverse range of rivers and rapids, North Carolina is a mecca for paddlers seeking an adrenaline-filled adventure in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. So grab your gear, check the streamflow levels, and get ready for an unforgettable whitewater experience in North Carolina.

       

Location Streamflow (cfs) Difficulty (class)
Linville Gorge Wilderness Boundary To Southern End Of Wilderness
86 IV-V
Linville Wilderness Boundary To Lake James
86 II-III
Dark Prong From Headwaters To Confluence East Fork And Yellowstone Prong
60 NONE
Yellowstone Prong From Headwaters To Confluence With East Fork And Yellowstone Prong
60 III-IV
East Fork From Us Highway 276 To Confluence Of Dark Prong And Yellowstone Prong
60 III-IV
Headwaters To Sloan's Bridge Crossing, Crossing Of Sc 107
124 NONE
1/4 Mile Above The Walhalla Fish Hatchery To 1/4 Mile Below The Walhalla Fish Hatchery
124 NONE
1.25 Miles Upstream From Hwy 17 Bridge To Black Swamp Creek
34 II-III
Black Swamp Creek To Nc Hwy 1442 Bridge At Stella
34 II-III
Headwaters Above Linville Gap To Blue Ridge Parkway Boundary
27 IV-V
Polecat Branch To Snowbird Picnic Area
117 III-IV
Headwaters Near Graham County Line To Nc/Tn State Line
160 NONE
Headwaters In Standing Indian Basin To Slackwater Of Natahala Lake
161 III-IV
Natahala Powerhouse To Lake Fontana (River Mile 4)
581 II-III
Mills River From Confluence Of North/South Forks To Confluence With Foster Creek
90 NONE
South Fork From Confluence With Pigeon Br To Nf Boundary
90 III-IV
North Fork From Bottom Of Spillway Of Hendersonville Reservoir To Confluence With South Fork
90 II-IV
Watauga Reservoir To Tn/Nc State Line
79 NONE
West Prong From Sr 1100 To Fs Road 121 2
39 III-IV
East Prong From Sr 1100 To Confluence With Brice Creek
39 V
Fs Road 121 2 To Confluence With Brice Creek
39 NONE
Brice Creek From Confluence With East/West Prongs To Nf Boundary Past Brice Creek Boat Ramp
1060 NONE
Nf Boundary To Confluence With Trent River
1060 III-IV
Headwaters To 1.24 River Miles Upstream From Us Hwy 17 Bridge
39 III-IV
Headwaters South Of High Point And Guilford County Line To Confluence With Pee Dee River
18 II-III
Headwaters 1 Mile Above Montgomery County Line To Confluence With Uwharrie River
18 III-IV
Headwaters Near Mitchell Lick To Owlcamp Branch
160 NONE
Owlcamp Branch To Polecat Branch
160 III-IV
Blue Ridge Parkway Boundary To Linville Gorge Boundary
27 IV-III+
Sloan's Bridge Crossing To 1/4 Mile Above The Walhalla Fish Hatchery
124 NONE
Nf Boundary To Confluence With North Fork
90 III-V