Hazard Warning: Hazard information may be user-submitted and unverified. Conditions change frequently. Always scout rapids and obstacles yourself.
Hazard NC Class V+

Headless Horseman

Raven Fork - 2. Enloe Creek Trail to Big Cove Road (NC)

Monitor this Rapid
Gauge Conditions
Oconaluftee River at Birdtown, NC Downstream Primary
Runnable: 800.0 – 3,000.0 CFS

Upper limit for best boatability uncertain. Please help your fellow boaters with a comment or report.

Data from American Whitewater & USGS
Photo
Headless Horseman
Photo courtesy of American Whitewater
Description
The Headless Horseman is a brutal Class V+ rapid featuring a massive, recirculating hole at the center that can easily trap and flip boats, demanding precise boat control and an aggressive line. Paddlers must navigate a narrow, technical entrance with sharp rocks and then commit to a hard right or left move to avoid the central hydraulic, which becomes increasingly dangerous at higher water levels.
Location
Type
Hazard
Difficulty
Class V+
Mile Marker
1.2 mi
Directions
Navigate
View Full Run
2. Enloe Creek Trail to Big Cove Road
Raven Fork
V+ 4.4 mi
Hazard — Exercise extreme caution in this area.
Current Conditions
5-Day Forecast
Whitewater data from
American Whitewater