Nolichucky River
1. Poplar NC to Chestoa TN(Nolichucky Gorge)
October 21, 2025
Low Water Trip To See Railroad Changes
| Reporter | Kevin Colburn |
| Gauge Reading | 1.2 ft at NOLICHUCKY RIVER AT EMBREEVILLE, TN |
| Flow | Low Flow |
This was a very low water descent, but still enjoyable for us. The big news is that paddlers should stay heads up downstream of Roostertail in the vicinity of the old Rollercoaster. CSX has filled in the once-clear left channel completely with rock, and what remains is a steeply sloped 5 food drop into a significant hole, which is backed by an undercut right at the foot of the drop on its right side. There is a swift wave train leading to this narrow drop. Scout right. You can run down a left side tongue at some levels, and likely at higher water you'll be able to safely run right of the undercut. This is a dangerous spot. We saw some fish and wildlife, surfed a bunch of nice small holes, and enjoyed the fall colors.