Class III-IV Wilson Creek, NC

A two-year partnership, exemplifying bipartisan support between county governments, local communities and the U.S. Forest Service, culminated in designation of Wilson Creek on August 18, 2000.

Jack Horan, Outdoors Editor for the Charlotte Observer, aptly describes Wilson Creek's special resources. "Kayakers and canoeists plunge through Boatbuster and Thunderhole Rapids. Anglers probe the greenish pools for brook, brown and rainbow trout. Sunbathers stretch out on massive boulders after a dip in the chilly waters. Wilson Creek long has been an easy-to-reach mountain oasis in the Pisgah National Forest. The free-flowing creek rises on the slopes of Grandfather Mountain in Avery County and, 20 miles later, makes a frantic dash through a 200-foot deep gorge before joining the Johns River in Caldwell County."

Current recreational use in the area of the stream includes fishing, hiking, primitive camping, hunting, and viewing scenery. The 15.4-mile section from below Mortimer Campground to Johns River is a canoe/kayak run with a range of Class I-V rapids. The most difficult section with Class III-V rapids occurs in the gorge. Water levels are generally sufficient for paddling after rain events. Upper reaches of Wilson Creek are also paddled after rain events.

 

For More Information Visit:

Wilson Creek - rivers.gov