North-Carolina Whitewater
LINVILLE GORGE WILDERNESS BOUNDARY TO SOUTHERN END OF WILDERNESS
STREAMFLOW: 123 CFS
• Class IV-V River Run
The Whitewater River run in Linville Gorge Wilderness, North Carolina is a popular destination for experienced paddlers seeking thrilling Class IV and V rapids. The ideal streamflow range for this 10-mile segment is between 300-600 cfs, with higher flows presenting significant danger. The Class IV rapids begin at the Wilderness boundary and continue for about 3 miles until the Class V rapid, "Gorilla". The remaining 7 miles are mostly Class III with a few Class IV rapids.
Specific river obstacles include the "Toilet Bowl" and "Sunshine" rapids, both Class IV, and the aforementioned "Gorilla" rapid, a Class V drop that requires precise navigation. Paddlers should also be aware of the large boulders and narrow channels throughout the run.
Regulations for the area include obtaining a permit from the US Forest Service and adhering to Leave No Trace principles. Due to the difficult nature of the run, paddlers should also have appropriate safety gear and experience. It is recommended that paddlers scout rapids before attempting them and paddle with a group. Multiple sources, including American Whitewater and the US Forest Service, confirm these details. Get driving directions.
Specific river obstacles include the "Toilet Bowl" and "Sunshine" rapids, both Class IV, and the aforementioned "Gorilla" rapid, a Class V drop that requires precise navigation. Paddlers should also be aware of the large boulders and narrow channels throughout the run.
Regulations for the area include obtaining a permit from the US Forest Service and adhering to Leave No Trace principles. Due to the difficult nature of the run, paddlers should also have appropriate safety gear and experience. It is recommended that paddlers scout rapids before attempting them and paddle with a group. Multiple sources, including American Whitewater and the US Forest Service, confirm these details. Get driving directions.
Last Updated | 2024-04-25 |
River Levels | 130 cfs (1.52 ft) |
Percent of Normal | 34% |
Reporting Streamgauge | LINVILLE RIVER NEAR NEBO, NC |
Elevation | 1,206 ft. |
River | Linville-River |
Watershed | Upper Catawba |
Nearby Camping
Location | Campsites | Reservations | Toilets | Showers | Elevation |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Lake James State Park | 20 | 1,246 ft | |||
Jacobs Creek Rec Area | 51 | 1,832 ft | |||
Linville Falls - Blue Ridge Parkway | Numerous | 3,220 ft | |||
Backbone Rock Rec Area | 50 | 2,231 ft | |||
Croft State Natural Area | 50 | 724 ft |
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