Catawba
2. Bridgewater Dam to Route 1147 Bridge
| Difficulty | I-II |
| Length | 5.7 mi |
| Avg Gradient | n/a |
| Gauge | Catawba R at Sr1223 Bl Lk James Nr Bridgewater, Nc |
| Flow Rate as of 36 minutes | 94 cfsbelow recommended |
| Reach Info Last Updated | June 19, 2017 |
River Description
The Bridgewater section of the Catawba River offers dam release Class II+ whitewater on a set schedule. The water is clear and cold! The first mile or two is similar to the Nantahala, with small waves and holes. After the whitewater section the river spreads out for a lazy float to the takeout.
The flow regime was negotiated by American Whitewater and Carolina Canoe Club, and other partners. Check out the [3-day flow forecast](http://Duke Energy provides releases on a set schedule as well as many additional days each year.) for the Bridgewater project to see what flows are on the horizon. There is also a link on the upper right of the forecast page to the calendar of scheduled releases.
This is likely an underutilized recreation opportunity in the summer when flow is scarce. Give it a try!
River Features
Put In
Take Out
Trip Reports
Log in to add a reportNice class II whitewater right at the beginning with long flatwater stretches in between. Makes for a great float fishing trip in canoes/kayaks.