Fontana Lake is a large, meandering body of water in western North Carolina that offers miles of unique and undeveloped shoreline for exploration. The narrow channels and protected bays are an ideal setting for paddlers in search of secluded and protected waters. The lake has over 240 miles of shoreline with multiple launch areas and campsites located at different points around the lake. This paddling trip starts from the Lemmon Branch launch which is a developed ramp with parking and a restroom located in the southeast section of the lake.

The run down the Linville River from the falls is one of the most scenic and epic whitewater runs in the eastern United States and should only be attempted by the most experienced paddlers out there. The advanced run through the steep gorge consists of multiple class IV-VI rapids which are relentless even for even very expert paddlers. The gorge is remote and steep so access and rescue is difficult. Scouting and portaging is also very challenging and can be dangerous in spots. The full stretch between the falls and the 126 bridge is best done as an exhausting two-day trip but there is an option of a shorter day trip by hiking and portaging out the Sandy Flats Trail. The put-in is accessed by a short portage down a steep trail below the falls. The run down Linville Gorge provides awesome scenery and a technically challenging run but do your research and know your limits before even considering taking the run down.

Center Hill Lake is nestled in the Cumberland Mountains and considered one of the most beautiful reservoirs in Tennessee. Stretching 64 miles, you’ll find 415 miles of mostly undeveloped shoreline to paddle and explore. It is known for its clear water, rock bluffs and amazing waterfalls. The US Army Corps of Engineers built it in 1949 for flood control along the Cumberland River. Fishing is a popular activity and the TWRA have places several fish attractors throughout the lake. Cane Hollow access is a large gravel parking area with a ramp into the water. It is close to the popular Burgess Falls and makes a perfect paddle trip to see the falls. Wildlife and birds abound with amazing scenery surrounding you. You can also paddle the other direction towards the main channel of the lake.

This large stream travels over 60 through diverse terrain of western North Carolina before entering into Watagua Lake in Tennessee. This stretch of the river offers an exciting run through a steep gorge that consists of multiple class III-V rapids with limited visibility. Very large drops and massive boulders result in some very tricky sections that require expert paddling and thorough scouting skills. Rescue on this section of the river can be very tricky as well so only attempt if you are very confident in your abilities. To check current water levels, contact Tennessee Valley Authority.

The Cheoah River, located in the southwestern corner of the state, runs between Santeetlah Dam and the Little Tennessee River. The river provides a challenging and enjoyable run when water is flowing . The river is usually dry but after extended rainfall it becomes an excellent option for intermediate and advanced paddlers. The first part of the run is best suited for intermediate paddlers with mostly class II-III rapids through boulder fields and over one ledge downstream from the overhead pipe. The second part of the run is more challenging with bigger rocks and higher ledges which can result in class V drops when water levels are high. There are alternate take-outs and put-ins along the way providing paddlers the option of only running the section that suits their abilities. Scouting the river through the second section is advised. The minimum level for the run is 4 feet and there is a gauge near Bearpen Gap on the bridge in the lower section.

The Green River is a dam-release river that travels through the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina and provides excellent and challenging runs for experienced paddlers. This section starts immediately downriver from the power plant and provides an enjoyable class II-III (IV) run for the first half with a couple of class III(IV) drops/slides that needed to be scouted and run cautiously. The second part of the run, however, is where most of the action is and should only be attempted by the most experienced and adventurous paddlers. Not only does this section offer multiple class V-VI elements but the area is very remote and hiking out is not an easy or short task if you are not able to complete the run by boat. There is not a lot of room for error when running The Narrows so be very confident in your paddling and scouting skills if considering to attempt this run. The river is runnable only when the plant is operating so call ahead to confirm the schedule and current flow conditions. The Narrows can become even more dangerous when the Hungry River is releasing higher levels of water from runoff.

Center Hill Lake is nestled in the Cumberland Mountains and considered one of the most beautiful reservoirs in Tennessee. Stretching 64 miles, you’ll find 415 miles of mostly undeveloped shoreline to paddle and explore. It is known for its clear water, rock bluffs and amazing waterfalls. The US Army Corps of Engineers built it in 1949 for flood control along the Cumberland River. Fishing is a popular activity and the TWRA have places several fish attractors throughout the lake. Rock Island State Park’s launch ramp offers access to some amazing paddling. Some areas are for experienced whitewater kayakers and can be dangerous. You will have access to view the beautiful Twin Falls as well as some fine fishing.

Center Hill Lake is nestled in the Cumberland Mountains and considered one of the most beautiful reservoirs in Tennessee. Stretching 64 miles, you’ll find 415 miles of mostly undeveloped shoreline to paddle and explore. It is known for its clear water, rock bluffs and amazing waterfalls. The US Army Corps of Engineers built it in 1949 for flood control along the Cumberland River. Fishing is a popular activity and the TWRA have places several fish attractors throughout the lake. This access point explores the waters of Dekalb County. You’ll paddle along an undeveloped shoreline where wildlife and beautiful scenery surrounds you.

The Nantahala River is located in western North Carolina and travels through national forest before entering Nantahala Lake and offers multiple sections of runnable river for paddlers of all skill levels. This section of the Nantahala River is a consistent, thrilling run of class I-III rapids. The roadway follows the river closely through this section so scouting the river before is easy to do and is strongly advised. Some of the rapids are upgraded in difficulty depending on water flow so it is important to know what the river is doing before running it. Nantahala Falls, as well as a few other rapids, can be easily portaged giving paddlers that are not as skilled the opportunity to run the river. The river can only be run when the power plant is operating so verify this information and current water gauges before attempting the run.

Surrounded by the beautiful Cherokee National Forest, this lake has many miles of shoreline enjoy as well as other recreation. The shoreline is lined with thick vegetation and is undeveloped. You’ll find many coves to explore and have the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife. The King Slough access point is located on the southwest end of the lake and has a paved launch ramp, a big parking lot and restrooms.