Carolina Whitewater. David Benner

primarily Class II–III. The water here is flowing over small-to-moderate boulder fields and through shrubs and small trees, as the riverbed is normally dry. There is one 4-foot ledge just downstream of the overhead pipe carrying water to Lake Cheoah. The more enjoyable run for advanced boaters is to put in 3 miles above the takeout. This section picks up volume (because several creeks enter) and gradient quickly. The action here is more continuous, with only a few flat stretches. The boulders are larger and the view is often blocked. At moderate levels, everything can be boat-scouted, with the exception of one 10-foot drop, best run on the far right. The last 2 miles drops at a rate of 100 feet per mile. At higher levels (water spilling over the dam), the extra push would make for some Class V drops.

      SHUTTLE: There are any number of places to put in on this run, as US 129 follows the river for most of its length. For those wanting to do the entire run, take US 129 north of Robbinsville to the Cheoah Point Recreation Area and scramble down to the base of the dam. To take out, follow US 129 north of Robbinsville to the bridge over the Little Tennessee River (just downstream of the Cheoah Dam).

      GAUGE: The USGS gauge is near Bearpen Gap on the bridge for the put in of the lower section. The minumum level for a run is 4 feet.

SANTEETLAH CREEK