Jackson
6. Low Moor to James River(Rainbow Gap)
| Difficulty | I-II+(III) |
| Length | 9.5 mi |
| Avg Gradient | 12 fpm |
| Gauge | Jackson River Bl Dunlap Creek at Covington, Va |
| Flow Rate as of 30 minutes | 652 cfslow runnable |
| Reach Info Last Updated | February 25, 2026 |
River Description
This is a surprisingly nice trip, considering that it follows I-64 for a while and then flows through Clifton Forge. There's decent current even at low levels, scenic cliffs near the community college, a tunnel-like experience under the railroad bridge, nice scenery and rapids at Rainbow Gap, and you can see where the James River begins at the confluence of the Jackson and Cowpasture.
Be aware of the low bridge behind the community college about 2 miles downstream of Low Moor. Since there is nothing memorable in the first 2 miles, it might be worth checking out the community college grounds for a put-in, especially if the flow is approaching 1000 cfs or above (the road to the low bridge is heavily posted, however). At 550 cfs decked boats can pass under, but if in doubt portage river right.
Note that the gauge is upstream of the Potts Creek confluence. Add the two gauges together to get a better idea of flow at Low Moor. Or to get the flow at the mouth, take the James at Lick Run and subtract the flow from the Cowpasture near Clifton Forge. This will add Wilson Creek flow which comes into this section just upstream of the Rainbow Gap rapids.
See Also:
Alleghany Highlands Blueway for maps and info.
Virginia Whitewater, Roger Corbett (2000 ed.), p. 275.
Exploring Virginia's Waterways, Ed Gertler (2022 ed.), p. 195.
River Features
Put In
Put in at Low Moor Boat Launch, accessed from exit 21 off of I-64.
Hazard - Low Bridge
The low bridge behind the community college is a hazard at moderate to high river levels due to swift current. At low to moderate levels, decked boats can float under, but canoes are iffy and it's probably safer to portage on river right. At moderate levels it's not an easy portage, with brush against the bridge and lifting boats up to the bridge. Putting in at this bridge would be ideal, since there is not much in the way of scenery or rapids to this point, but the road is posted. Photo taken at ~1500 cfs.
Railroad Bridge/Tunnel
The river flows beneath a very wide railroad bridge here, creating a tunnel-like experience on the river. No real rapid or hazard, but an interesting spot.
Swinging Bridge boat ramp
Boat ramp, river right. Clifton Forge access.
Rainbow Gap rapids
Once you pass under Rt. 220 and the river turns to the right, you are in Rainbow Gap, a scenic micro-gorge with class II+ rapids, possibly III at high water levels. Great place to stop and enjoy the scenery. Sadly the rapids are fairly short, and are followed by a long flat section of river.
Head of the James
James River begins at the confluence of the Jackson and the Cowpasture. Possible access on river right at a large gravel bar off of Head of the James Road.
Take Out - Rt. 220 bridge
Take out at the Lick Run access on the James River, on the downstream side of the Rt. 220 bridge, river left. Parking at the top of the hill, across Glen Wilton Road. The short but steep access road can get washed out and treacherous at times.
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