This section of the Pacolet River requires portaging the Clifton I and II Dams. Portage is available river-right around both dams. Paddlers can expect to encounter a few Class I rapids along this industrial stretch of the Pacolet River.

Clifton Beach is a short 5-minute drive from the Clifton Old Town River Access; shuttling cars would be quick and easy. The Clifton Old Town River Access is located off of River Street, northwest of the Town of Clifton. There is a gravel parking area and a short trail that leads to the river. 950 feet downstream of the put in, there is a set of shoals called "Big Shoals", with Class I-II rapids. After crossing under the first bridge (Cowpens Clifton Road), paddlers will come across the Clifton I Dam. Portaging the Clifton I and II Dams requires paddlers to exit the river and carry boats around the dams, re-entering the river downstream. Be advised that although these dams are not large, they pose significant hazards to paddlers. Paddlers should avoid the dams and their facilities, exiting the river well before the dams, and carefully re-entering below the dams, avoiding their tailrace. Once around the first dam, there are 1,300 feet of Class I-II shoals. The river then becomes relatively flat as it approaches the Clifton II dam. Exit the river well before the dam, river right. For additional information, view Upstate Forever's Pacolet River and Lawson's Fork Creek Blueway Map.