Saluda, Middle
2: Jones Gap State Park to Gap Creek Rd.
| Difficulty | II-III(IV) |
| Length | 2.4 mi |
| Avg Gradient | 99 fpm |
| Gauge | Middle Saluda River Near Cleveland, Sc |
| Flow Rate as of 1 hour | 1.38 ftbelow recommended |
| Reach Info Last Updated | January 8, 2013 |
River Description
The first part of this run is in the state park and requires a permit to run. Stop at the park office - you will need you car tag and driver's license information. The river leaves the park after about 1/3 mile.
The Middle Saluda changes character very quickly as it leaves Jones Gap State Park. Essentially from the put in at the last parking lot in Jones Gap State Park to the Gap Creek road access this run goes from a class IV boulder field to a gentle stream. The first rapids are the steepest and require scouting to determine if strainers block them.
This section carries a much greater flow than the Gap.
The river enters a wide flat valley below Gap Creek and only a few rapids exist on the section from Gap Creek to the Hwy 11.
Part of this run is private and posted (and is above the officially navigable section of the river, so a low profile is a good idea).
River Features
Put in Bridge
The first rapid is the lead in for State Park Rapid (Boof and Boogie). If you are not up to Class IV+ put in at the steel bridge.
State Park Rapid
The largest rapid on the run. See the river description from teh previous section See also Jones Gap.
Take Out
Trip Reports
Log in to add a reportUnfortunatly like many of the upstate guagues this one was discontinued in late 2003. Fortunately, turned back on July 2012.
There is now a gauge on the North Saluda at the Hwy 11 bridge. It should correlate fairly well to this run but the range needs to be determined.
Part of this run is private and posted.
This is the first rapid for the lower run down the Gap Creek.