Читать книгу Carolina Whitewater. A Paddler's Guide to the Western Carolinas онлайн

65 страница из 66

MAPS: Tapoco (NC/TN), Fontana Dam (USGS); Graham (County)

class: III–IV

length: 9.2 mi.

time: 4.5 hrs.

gauge: Visual

level: 4 ft.

permits: No

gradient: 70

scenery: A

SANTEETLAH DAM TO US 129 BRIDGE (JUST BELOW CHEOAH DAM)

DESCRIPTION: The first 7 miles of this run are 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.