Gauge Description:

Runnable as low as 100 cfs but you gotta be really hardup. Ideal is from 250-400 cfs. The Watauga gets harder and harder the higher the flow. There aren't many boaters willing to run it over 650 cfs and those that do often portage some of drops (especially Hydro). The exception to this general rule is Stateline Falls, which is actually harder at very low levels than it is at moderate levels because the ankle-breaking rock just to the left of the landing zone becomes less padded. To find out what the Watauga is running, call the TVA at 800-238-2264 and press 3 or online at Boating Beta - My Flows or here. Note the Sugargrove gauge is upstream of the Gorge itself and can sometimes read low compared to actual conditions in the gorge due to feeder creeks downstream of the gauge.

IV to IV+(V-) (fun in a drought low) 100-150 cfs

IV to V- (low) 150-250 cfs
IV to V- (ideal) 250-400 cfs
IV+ to V (pushy) 400-650 cfs
V (screaming) over 650 cfs