Toe

The Toe Gorge rapids have changed substantially from Hurricane Helene. The old put-in bridge is gone. You can fit 4-5 cars at the circle / wide spot about 1/4 mile upstream; this is the better put in. Where the bridge used to be is a serviceable but less friendly put-in. From the put-in to Toecane is approximately one half mile and fairly flat. At Toecane, Cane creek enters from the right adding more flow and then the river narrows somewhat and the gradient picks up and the rapids start. Most are in the class 2-2+ range. At higher levels some are 3-. The action is fairly continuous but there are plenty of pools. There are a couple good surfing spots. Soon you will come to the relatively new rte 197 bridge. The best takeout is about 100 yards below the bridge on river left. Those who are youthful and adept at climbing over boulders & up large rip-rap can also take just above / at the bridge / below the bridge on river left. There is a space to load / unload boats at the 'good' takeout but you are not allowed to park there as space is quite limited. A sign directs you to nearby approved parking near the bridge.