Class III-IV Obed River, TN

Obed Junction to Nemo

Obed River - Tennessee 

The Obed River corridor extends from one mile downstream (east) of Highway 298 (Genesis Road) in the Catoosa Wildlife Management Area to the confluence with the Emory River; Clear Creek from the west Morgan County line to the confluence with the Obed River; Daddys Creek from the Morgan County line to the confluence with the Obed River; and the Emory River 1/4 mile upstream from the confluence with the Obed River to Nemo Bridge. The site is the only Federal scenic river in Tennessee.

 

This pristine, non-dammed river attracts whitewater boaters to some of the finest paddling (class I-IV rapids) in the United States. There are numerous waterfalls both in the river and falling off the steep walls of the canyons.

 

The Lilly Bluff Overlook on the Obed Wild and Scenic River looks much the same today as it did when the first white settlers strolled its banks in the late 1700s. The Lily Bluff Overlook is just a short walk through the woods from the parking lot and boasts an excellent boardwalk to the edge of the bluffs overlooking the river. - Credit: Paul Mashburn, Flickr Public Photo

 

A variety of outdoor activities await you at the Obed Wild and Scenic River. Kayaking, canoeing, and rafting are popular seasonal activities. The 45 miles that comprise the entire river system includes whitewater runs that range from Class II to Class IV.

Rock climbing and boulder climbing are also available at the park. Dozens of climbing routes ranging up to 200 feet in length are offered.

For those who love to fish, the Obed is home to a variety of bass, bluegill, catfish, and muskie, among others.

Obed Wild and Scenic River also offers several different hiking trails at varying lengths throughout the park. Camping is offered at Rock Creek Campground, and picnic benches and grills are provided at the Nemo Picnic Area.

 

 

rivers.gov

Section Details

Trip Length Full Day, 10.0 Miles
Notes Backcountry Camping along stream permitted with permit.
Fishing Yes
Camping Yes
Permit No
Manager National Park Service
Wild & Scenic Yes
Water Trail No
Partner Information http://www.nps.gov/obed/planyourvisit/index.htm
https://www.rivers.gov/river/obed
Description American Whitewater
Photo Credit: From Point Trail above the confluence with the Obed River. (Photo by Tim Palmer - www.timpalmer.org)