Watauga, North Carolina, US

1. SR 1557 to NC 105 - Red Roof (Red Roof Run)

Usual Difficulty	II-IV (for normal flows)
Length	2 Miles
Avg. Gradient	75 fpm
Max Gradient	135 fpm

Gauge Information

Name	Range	Difficulty	Updated	Level
WATAUGA RIVER NEAR SUGAR GROVE, NC
usgs-03479000	200 - unknown cfs	II-IV	00h42m	206 cfs (rc= 0.0 )

River Description

This is better understood as a run with two distinct personalities. The upper section, above the dam, is an easy class II drop-pool with a II+ ledge at the end. This is a favorite, close run of Boone boaters. Below the dam, are 3/4 mile of continuous, rocky class IV (V at higher water). This drops 125 feet in the first 0.4 mi. (equal to about 300 ft./mile) then levels out for the last 0.3 mile to rocky class II-III.


To reach the take-out, follow HWY 105 out of Boone toward Banner Elk. The bridge over the Watauga and traffic light are followed by a small parking area on the left. For the put-in, continue 2 miles further on 105. Bear left just before Appalachain Angler's shop on Old Shull's Mill Rd, noting the dam which divides the run. Your next left will be Shulls Mill Rd. When you pass over the river again, look for a place to park. We have not had trouble parking behind the church on the left, but obviously we don't want to lose the priviledge, so tread lightly and be modest in changing. I have been told that some good ledges exist above this put-in, but I'm unfamiliar with them.