Moormans, South Fork

Above Sugar Hollow Reservoir

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DifficultyIII-IV(V)
Length0.4 mi
Avg Gradientn/a
GaugeMoormans River Near Free Union, Va
Flow Rate as of 1 hour
18 cfsbelow recommended
Reach Info Last UpdatedAugust 24, 2013

River Description

The South Fork of the Moormans River flows off the Blue Ridge Mountains, and out of Shenandoah National Park, emptying into the scenic Sugar Hollow Reservoir. (Boating is not allowed on the reservoir itself). This drainage is best known for a swimming hole known as 'Blue Hole' about a mile up the South Fork from the reservoir. The creek rarely has enough water to paddle. Harris and I made a run after 5'+ of rain hit the mountains, blowing out most of the usual creek runs in the area. We had a great level on this creek though. Unfortunately there was also plenty of wood - we had about six portage around logjams between Blue Hole and the lake. The highlight of the run is the Blue Hole drop. There are two stout drops leading into the main falls, then another drop not far below (the last one was full of wood in January, 2010). The Blue Hole drop went well and was by far the best part of the run.

(Coordinates provided are approximate.)


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