There are a few Class I and II rapids along this stretch, but as the river nears Ware Shoals, the channels become clear, wide, and still, impounded by the downstream Ware Shoals Dam.
Very limited parking (~2 cars) is available along the side of Maddox Bridge Road, north/upstream of the bridge on river-left. A trail leads from the road to the river. This access is unofficial but widely used. Use at your own risk.
Avoid the dam entirely! After crossing below the State Hwy 252 bridge, stay to the left side of the river. Take-out is on river-left about 300 feet before the dam and buoy line. Parking is available in the dirt clearing east of the dam. Portage around the dam is available, but is 0.15 miles long and strenuous. Using a vehicle to shuttle boats to the downstream put-in is recommended.
The Ware Shoals Dam take out and dam portage is located a short 10 minute drive from Maddox Bridge Road. Very limited roadside parking is available along Maddox Bridge Road, upstream river left. A short trail leads from the road to the river. Once on the river, paddlers will encounter several Class I-II rapids and shoals. As the river nears Ware Shoals, the river slows to flatwater. After crossing under the State Hwy 252 bridge, stay to the left side of the river. Take out is river left, about 300 feet before the dam and buoy line. Parking is available in the dirt clearing east of the dam. Portage around the dam is available, but is 0.15 miles long and strenuous. Using a vehicle to shuttle boats to the downstream put in is recommended.
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