Watauga
4. US Route 321 Bridge to Guy's Ford(Section Three)
| Difficulty | II(IV) |
| Length | 4.9 mi |
| Avg Gradient | 35 fpm |
| Gauge | Watauga River Near Sugar Grove, Nc |
| Flow Rate as of 36 minutes | 44 cfsbelow recommended |
| Reach Info Last Updated | March 10, 2014 |
River Description
This is a reliable class two run within about 20 minutes of Boone. It can be run pretty low, but most don't bother below 250cfs. The section has good variety - ledges, a slot move, a few surfing waves, shoals, etc.
Be aware of a 'mandatory' portage 1/4 mile into the run called the Clog. After the first set of shoals and rapids, where the Laurel Fork joins the river from the left, the river pools up above the Clog. This is a difficult class V rapid that terminates in a narrow slot that feeds a huge undercut rock that is stuffed with debris such as plywood, logs, etc. Portage the whole thing on the right. Take out as far down as you can go before the rapid begins to minimize walking on private property. There is an old road at the top of the bank. We need to be EXTRA LOW-PROFILE as there are rumors of property owners not being happy about boaters in or near their yards.
Everything else is boat-scoutable.
Note: There is a good surfing wave just below Guy's Ford Bridge where you can get in a little more river at the end of the run.
River Features
Put In
Take Out
Trip Reports
Log in to add a reportBeautiful scenery and a great place for young boaters or people who have just picked it up. Might want to walk the Snak Pit the rapid 1/4 of a mile down if you have never done it before.
lil jon the s****r, will (peg leg) rollover and I (the muffin man) run this almost everyday no matter what level... but bring a case if under 150cfs. Don't miss snake pit and the clog... best rapid on the river! (actually the only rapid.. really.. do it!)
It's close, fun, and unbelieeeevable (OH!)