Roanoke

Ran today with 2700 cfs upstream and 18 ft downstream. This was a good combo for the big drop at the end. We also checked out the far left channel and then around the island. There was not quite enough water to be good, but it was somewhat interesting. Mostly class 1 in this channel and we paddled around the big island and back upstream to the boat ramp. No rapids down there but the current is strong and it’s a tough paddle back upstream.

paddled the fall line back on late September. water running close to 2300cfs. should have been a perfect day for the wave. Two other boaters were there as well. Wave did not form up as it had in the past. not sure but I think the heavy rains of Fall 2015 through early summer 2016 may have upset the formation. if anyone else has info please let us know.

I went to Weldon Falls park two weeks ago. The level should have been prime for the Weldon Wave, 2800 cfs. A couple other boaters were there looking for some surf. Unfortunately, the wave did not produce. High water from Fall of 2015 through the 2016 summer rains may have shifted the formation. what surf was left, wasn't on par with my experience of the past. There are still a couple surf holes in the upper part of the rapid but they are shallow and sticky. surfing Dumpster Hole is still a Paddle at Your Own Risk adventure.

Kyle surfing center wave @ ~ 19 ft on Halifax gauge-great park and play for beginners and intermediate paddlers

One can avoid the long flat water section described and paddle the swiftwater/class I-II rapids near the 95 bridge by using a lower, public access point. The Roanoke Canal trail runs along the river. On River Road, in Roanoke Rapids, there is a parking lot to access the trail (use Google Maps to find it). A short 5 minute walk along the lower trail brings the trail next to the river and an abandoned housing development on the right. Put in here, next to a drain culvert with good eddy service.

The 'insignificant' rapid noted in the river description is not that insignificant. I consider this section to be a great run for beginner paddlers and the noted rapid that is just below I-95 can be fairly technical depending on the level and particular channel on chooses. I first paddled this section in an open canoe with a girlfriend and I found the run to be enjoyable, minus the occasional unpleasant odor associated with Roanoke Rapids in general. Long story, short: this section offers more than just park 'n play, especially for those looking for a fun and relaxing day on the river with a grand finale!

Running river right at Weldon at ~ 19 on Halifax Guage(looks bigger than it is for sure). Easy class II+(III-)

was there on 7-26-08 center line play hole was great right side dumpster hole was rocky with little water watch for fishing equipment in rapids. will update again on 8-3-07

Eric surfin with hand paddles at ! 19.5 ft on Halifax Gauge

At the present 1500 CFS the wave is harder to ride, and things are a little bony.

First warm weekend of the year.

Halifax gauge at 18.7', releasing 2700 from the dam.
Halifax gauge at 18.7', releasing 2700 from the dam.

apparently the gauges have been changed a little, I was there yesterday at about 3000 cfs and the wave was great. one of the best park and play spots anywhere for quality of features and ease of use.

Robin surfing dumpster hole.

At the right levels, this wave is has a nice pocket that
allows you to surf/spin all day long. You can even go
vertical (as you can see) but you are more likely to
flush out.