Tuckasegee, East Fork - 1. Greenland/Panthertown confluence to Rock Bridge (NC)
Approximate - nearest available gauge. Use as general reference only.
The approach series and 3 entrance drops are not overly difficult and are class 4, but the consequences of a mistake are class 6, as death by sieves and wood is a certainty. Right after the first 3 drops, the river charges into an undercut alley full of giant logs, of which there is no escape. This rapid is very reminiscent of sketchy class 5 boulderchokes found over on the Cumberland Plateau. There, it is a rapid, here its a portage.
Several portage "trails" are here. Easiest seems to be on river left. You should be in eye shot of the river...if you aren't you've gone up too high.
NOTE: The river corridor is private property below Plinko. Enjoy the river accordingly and respect private lands.