4. NC Route 9 below Lake Adger Dam to Big Level Road

The 7 miles below Lake Adger Dam is a dam controlled run with beginner friendly rapids, deep pools and long boiling eddy lines. The dam generates power primarily in the afternoon and evening. Releases can be substantial, 500 to 1000 cfs, resulting in deep fast flows. There is not a posted release schedule or data online.  There is a gauge 45 miles downstream on the Broad (Boiling Springs). It takes about 15 hrs for the flow to reach the gauge, so you can see what the flow was the day before. Most releases start at 4 or 5 PM. There is usually no releases on weekends. A 3 mile float from the dam to Wilson Hill Road includes fast moving water, shoals, some play waves and strong eddies. The streambed is wide but do watch for strainers. The 4 miles from Wilson Hill to Big Level Road is slower but still worth the time. There are several strong eddy lines to play in and a couple of fun splat rocks. The scenary is primarily woodlands and there are several large rocks for breaks. Avoid island channels that are not obviously open. The exit of at least one channel was blocked by wood as of June 2022. Access There is a small parking lot below the bridge on Hwy 9 on river left. The driveway into the lot is steep. Check out the river left and right eddies for stern squirts. If taking out at Wilson Hill Road, scout out parking and river egress prior to your trip. If taking out at Big Level Road, there is a small goat path just before the bridge on river right. There may be a partially submerged rock at the base of the path. Park with caution on the right of ways adjacent to Big Level Road. Do not block driveways or gates. Credits Risa Callaway