Greenbrier River
08. Fort Spring to Alderson
| Difficulty | I-II |
| Length | 6.4 mi |
| Avg Gradient | 10 fpm |
| Gauge | Greenbrier River at Alderson, Wv |
| Flow Rate as of 18 minutes | 4.52 ftmedium runnable |
| Reach Info Last Updated | May 1, 2025 |
River Description
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River Features
Put In
The Fort Spring put-in is at the intersection of 63 and 43. Coming from Alderson on 63, turn right on 43 and then immediately into the gravel lot. Concrete stairs with handrails and a slide for inflatables.
Take Out
The takeout is at the Alderson mini-park, with concrete steps down to the water and several parking spaces. This is located on Hwy. 12 just west of the intersection with 63 and next to Camp Greenbrier. Historically folks have taken out about 3/4 mile upstream where there are gravel pull-outs along 63, but this area is posted, and it's not much further to this public access.
Trip Reports
Log in to add a reportthe site of the wvwa's beginner clinic, I actually like the 3 ft level, More to do, some rocks are out so there are eddies to catch, little waves to surf and moves to make. This run tends to wash out at higher flows (+6 feet).
We just ran it down to Stuart's at 7 feet. It only took about 35 minutes! Great ride, rapids are pretty big at this stage, but still manageable with sit on tops. Big fun!
This section of the Greenbrier is very popular with all manner of river patrons, including tubers, float fishermen, whitewater boaters and anything else that will float. There are a number of class 2 rapids to spice things up. Towards the end of the trip be on the lookout for Anvil rock, a great spot for showing off your diving skills ( close to 20 feet high ). On summer days, you'll probably be sharing this jump rock with a number of inebriated leapers, each intent on proving the validity of natural selection. Just a little further downstream is Stuart's, a river side restaurant, famed for it's hot dogs. They will invite you in, soggy or not, and you can have a few libations while watching the parade of tubes, rafts etc. float by. Great section to cool off in the heat of summer
This is a great section to train Novice paddlers. Need about 4 feet on the gauge. Shuttle is a breeze for multiple runs. Put-in at pull over near intersection of SR63 and CR43, Take out at the river side park at Alterson upstream of the Bridge. A truely fast run at High water levels.
History buffs can enjoy the Museum at Talcott - The John Henry legend and Tunnel where it all happened. Great way to have Lunch and get some Pics.