North-Carolina Whitewater

HEADWATERS IN STANDING INDIAN BASIN TO SLACKWATER OF NATAHALA LAKE


STREAMFLOW: 192 CFS

Class III-IV River Run

The Whitewater River run from Headwaters in Standing Indian Basin to Slackwater of Natahala Lake in North Carolina is a popular destination for kayakers, rafters, and canoeists. The ideal streamflow range for this run is between 250 and 800 cubic feet per second (cfs), with 400 cfs being the optimal level. The segment mileage for this run is approximately 13 miles, and it is rated as a class III-IV river, with some rapids approaching class V.

Some of the specific rapids and obstacles on this run include the S-Turn rapid, the Corkscrew rapid, the Brainard's Bridge rapid, and the Final Curtain rapid. These rapids can be challenging, with steep drops, tight turns, and powerful currents. Participants should have proper gear, experience, and knowledge of the area before attempting this run.

There are specific regulations and guidelines in place for this area to ensure the safety of all participants. These include wearing a personal flotation device (PFD) at all times, obeying all posted signs and warnings, and obtaining necessary permits and licenses before entering the area. Additionally, participants should practice Leave No Trace principles and respect the natural environment.

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HEADWATERS IN STANDING INDIAN BASIN TO SLACKWATER OF NATAHALA LAKE
Last Updated 2024-04-25
River Levels 92 cfs (1.03 ft)
Percent of Normal 61%
Reporting Streamgauge NANTAHALA RIVER NEAR RAINBOW SPRINGS, NC
Elevation 3,073 ft.
River Nantahala-River
Watershed Upper Little Tennessee

Nearby Camping
Location Campsites Reservations Toilets Showers Elevation
Sandy Bottoms Rec. Area 14 2,311 ft
Standing Indian 100 3,406 ft
Wildcat 2 16 2,667 ft
Sevier County Park - Douglas Reservoir Numerous 1,073 ft
Seed Campground Numerous 1,769 ft
Jackrabbit Mountain 100 1,959 ft
Unicoi State Park Numerous 1,678 ft
Cable Cove 26 1,796 ft
Wildcat 1 16 2,509 ft
Tsali 41 1,717 ft
Douglas Dam Tailwater 62 1,023 ft
Tallulah River 17 1,979 ft
Tate Branch 19 2,273 ft
Lake Chatuga 10 1,973 ft
Fort Yargo State Park Numerous 914 ft
Elkmont - Great Smoky Mountains National Park 220 2,177 ft
Moccasin Creek State Park Numerous 1,881 ft
Georgia Mountain Fair Campground 200 1,970 ft
Andrews Cove 10 2,056 ft
Douglas Dam Headwater 65 1,037 ft
Cades Cove - Great Smoky Mountains National Park 159 1,884 ft
Lake Russell 42 1,081 ft
Cherokee Dam 42 1,132 ft