Catawba
1. Route 1234 Bridge to US Route 221 Bridge
| Difficulty | I-II |
| Length | 11.8 mi |
| Avg Gradient | n/a |
| Gauge | Catawba R Nr Pleasant Gardens, Nc |
| Flow Rate as of 1 hour | 203 cfsrunnable |
| Reach Info Last Updated | August 5, 2015 |
Projects
On August 11th, 2006, American Whitewater joined a group of 70 organizations, agencies, and individuals in signing a Settlement Agreement that will shape the management of the Catawba River for the next 30-50 years. The agreement marks the culmination of 3 years of studies and negotiations among a diverse [...]Read More
River Description
Carolina Whitewater, B.Benner
River Features
Put In
Take Out
Trip Reports
Log in to add a reportFun, easy, place to play when above 550cfs, 1150cfs or above makes for fun I-II. I wouldn't bother if its below 400 unless you really enjoy flatwater. The sweet spot for CFS is 1100-2000. One metal cable in the water between Tom Johnson's and the Catawba river Park.
Ran on 6/30/18 at 290 cfs and 8/5/18 at 720 cfs. At 290 cfs the first mile has a lot of scraps but you can still get thru without getting out of the boat. I'd say the floor for this run s/b 300 cfs. At 720 cfs the river is much faster and a little pushy in some narrow spots. There are a few new river wide strainers that you can get thru if you're careful. This is a nice paddle.
Access at the Catawba River Park on Old Greenlee Rd. by Tom Johnson Camping World. Take out Phillips Landing Business 221 downstream of the greenway.
Fun little rapids at the river park above the cement steps, cool wave along the greenway, this section takes 45 min to an hour to run with canoes. lots of tubes, canoes, and kayaks family friendly!
Greenway section is Delayed Harvest Trout Waters stocked October through May
Ran this section at about 1000 cfs in skirted crossover kayaks and an inflatable. Also wore helmets.
Fast moving water with many I and II rapids. The biggest danger was strainers. Never had to portage but had to scout around each bend in the river. Overall, this section was enjoyable. The outside temp was 90 so the largely tree shaded river and cool water were refreshing.
the spot is not as good if the bridgewater plant is running two units (call 1-800-829-5253) for flow releases.If they are running one unit it is mutch better.It is under the power house bridge.
This is good class 1 stuff at 1300 cfs.