West Fork Tuckasegee Gorge Release (NC)

Each year Duke Energy releases ideal recreation flows of 250cfs into the Class IV+(V) West Fork Tuckasegee’s steep gorge on seven days. These releases were negotiated by American Whitewater and affiliate paddling clubs in the early 2000’s, along with the access trail and parking areas, over the course of a five year process. Each year we meet to plan the next year’s releases and address any issues. Paddlers park at a trailhead on Lake Glenville, hike down a steep trail to the base of two massive waterfalls, and paddle 5.6 miles of steep slides, drops, and rapids in a gorge comprised of private lands.