Holston River - Cherokee Dam to Indian Caves - 12 miles

*Event time is based on dam release schedule from the past week.The schedule for the day we are going will not be released until the day before. This trip can NOT be done without a release. So, we may have to alter the time or reschedule if the release information changes. PLEASE RECHECK THE MEETING TIME THE NIGHT BEFORE*

Sorry, no rental kayaks are available at this location. However, you may be able to rent one from Riversports or another place in town. I have no affiliation with them. You will have to work the details out with them.

This is very similar to the Clinch River.

With it getting a little warm, it's time to cool off with a float. This will be a 12 mile float (good current with little paddling) on a dam release river. It's mostly a flatwater paddle with a few ripples. There are a couple of small drops on the upper portion. The water will be cold, bottom release dam. TWRA does require a life jacket and prohibits alcohol on these rivers. This does typically take all day, so bring water, snack/lunch, sunscreen, and whatever else you will need to be out on the water.

The best boats for this river section are 10' to 14 feet flat water kayaks or canoes. There are sections in this river where the rocks will scratch your boat, so if you have a fiberglass boat or can't handle some scratches on the boat, this is not the river for you. This is not a lake. Longer boats have trouble navigating through the several drops that we have, but so far, everyone has made it through. I do not recommend any tubes or inflatable kayaks that you will be in the water and typically much slower than the rest of the group. (The water is too cold to remain submerged for any extended period of time). I also do not recommend paddle boards because it is such a long trip. Because of the flow and limited access, there is no easy return to the put-in.

PLEASE check the meeting time the night before. TVA may alter the dam release schedule, and we will need to cancel or change the time we meet. This float is not fun without water.

LOCATION

We will meet at the put-in. If a few can help me set the shuttle prior to the stated time. I will have a flat bed trailer and truck that can take your kayak to the top if you can shuttle people back to the put-on.

LATECOMERS AND "NO-SHOWS"

It’s important that everyone is on time (or early). You wouldn't want to get left behind because you’re running late. If your plans change and you can’t come on the paddle, please remember to change your RSVP so we’re not waiting for you or looking for you.

*** Failure to change your RSVP or let us know at least an hour ahead of the hike's start time qualifies as a 'No-Show' for me, and you may not be able to hike with me in the future. ***

LIABILITY WAIVER

Paddlers will assume all responsibility for their own well-being throughout the paddle/float. While paddlers may choose to paddle as a group, they should not assume that event organizers or other paddlers will provide any aid, support, or guidance during the trip, and all paddlers should plan to be self-supporting throughout the entire trip. (See additional info below)

FULL DISCLAIMER

Meetup organizers are not guides. Expect the same risks and take the same precautions you would take if you were paddling alone. You are solely responsible for your own safety and well-being.

By signing up for and/or attending this Meetup event, you acknowledge, understand, accept, and agree that paddling and other activities can be dangerous and can cause serious bodily injury and possible death. The organizers of this group and current and former members can not be held responsible or liable in any way for the actions of any participant-including you at any event.

All attendees participate at an event at their own risk and are solely responsible for any damage to their property and/or any injury to themselves or their guests. By signing up for this event you affirm that you understand this disclaimer and that you knowingly and voluntarily agree not to bring any type of claim arising out of or related to this Meetup event against organizers of this event.