Class IV Cheoah River, NC
Cheoah River (Santeelah Dam to Little Tennessee River)
The Cheoah River, 20 miles long, is located in the extreme southwestern corner of North Carolina, near Robbinsville. Unique in it’s features, the Cheoah is one of the most physically demanding rivers in the world and the perfect challenge for the most adventurous paddlers.
For seventy years, the nine-mile section between the Santeetlah Dam and Lake Calderwood was dewatered. American Whitewater advocated for the releases which began in the fall of 2005. Each year, there are at least 18 releases for paddlers to enjoy for the next 40 years. (Source: Smoky Mountain Blueways)
Section Details
| Fishing | Yes |
| Camping | Yes |
| Manager | U.S. Forest Service, Nantahala National Forest |
| Wild & Scenic | No |
| Water Trail | No |
| Partner Information |
http://www.visitsmokies.org/smoky-mountain-blueways/
http://www.visitsmokies.org/smoky-mountain-blueways/cheoah-river/ |
| Description | American Whitewater |
| River Flow Information |
https://safewaters.com/facility/3 This section of river is dependent on flow being released from an upstream hydropower dam. For 77 years the nine-mile section between the Santeetlah Dam and Lake Calderwood was dewatered. American Whitewater along with the Western North Carolina Paddlers advocated for releases for over 6 years. Whitewater releases on the Cheoah began in the fall of 2005. Each year there are at least 18 releases for paddlers to enjoy for the next 40 years. (Source: American Whitewater) |
