Data Disclaimer: Water level data is provided by USGS and NOAA for informational purposes only. Verify conditions on-site before any water activities.
Learn more
Cardinal Cove Resort provides boat access to Cherokee Lake, a major impoundment on the Holston River in Grainger County near Rutledge, Tennessee. This location offers access to a substantial waterway with an average flow of approximately 4,890 cubic feet per second and a drainage area of 3,642 square miles. The Holston River system extends 137 miles with a significant elevation change of 349 feet, creating varied water conditions along its length.
Paddlers and boaters should be aware that Cherokee Lake, as an impounded section of the Holston River, will have different characteristics than free-flowing river sections. The average river velocity of 4.97 feet per second and moderate gradient of 2.5 feet per mile indicate manageable current in most conditions, though water levels can fluctuate due to dam operations. The site's location in eastern Tennessee places it within a scenic mountain region with considerable drainage area upstream, meaning water conditions can change with seasonal precipitation and dam releases.
Access at Cardinal Cove Resort appears suited for various watercraft types common to reservoirs and slower river sections. Boaters should verify current facility amenities and any day-use requirements before visiting, and should check local dam operation schedules that may affect water levels and current strength.