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Access Site TN

Moon Hill Bridge

French Broad River - Douglas Lake

Source: tennessee_wildlife_resources_agency Updated 1 year ago

City: Chestnut Hill, TN
County: Jefferson County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 35.95544294, -83.36743203
Air Temp: --
Location
Nearby Gauge Conditions
About This Access Site
Moon Hill Bridge provides access to the French Broad River in the Douglas Lake area near Chestnut Hill in Jefferson County, Tennessee. This is a major river system with significant flow characteristics - averaging nearly 7,600 cubic feet per second with an average velocity of 6.34 feet per second. The French Broad River at this location represents a substantial waterway with a drainage area of over 5,000 square miles, making it suitable for various types of boating activities. The river maintains a moderate gradient of 6.5 feet per mile through this section.

Paddlers and boaters accessing the French Broad River at Moon Hill Bridge should be prepared for moderate current conditions typical of a major river system. The water body profile indicates this is a well-established river corridor with significant flow volume. Given the river's classification as a Stream Order 8 waterway and its average velocity characteristics, this access point is best suited for paddlers with intermediate experience who are comfortable navigating moving water. The elevation change along the broader French Broad River system is substantial at over 1,300 feet across its 214-mile length, though specific conditions at this particular access point would benefit from local consultation.

The French Broad River system supports diverse recreational uses given its size and established nature as a major river. Boaters should be aware of the consistent current and flow characteristics when planning trips, and should check current water conditions before launching, as flow rates can vary seasonally and with upstream dam operations.