Discover the Broad River Paddle Trail

Official River Access Points

Each of Rutherford County’s four official access points—and one in Cleveland County—is designed to make your paddle safe, simple, and enjoyable. You’ll find comprehensive kiosks and NC Wildlife Resources Commission signage at every site, offering river details, safety information, and directions to the previous and next official access. Each location also features ample parking, paved access, and well-built stairs and entry points—everything you need for a smooth launch with your entire party. They are located at:

1) 520 Gray’s Rd, Rutherfordton, NC 28139

2) 2254 Coxe Rd, Rutherfordton, NC 28139

3) 6480 US Hwy 221 N, Forest City, NC 28043

4) 5360 US Hwy 221-A, Mooresboro, NC 28114

5) 126 Broad River Dr., Shelby, NC 28152

Easy Trips

Gray’s Road Access → Coxe Road Access

4 miles · 3 hours · Easy
Ways to travel: Paddleboard, Kayak, Canoe

This section is a favorite for its balance of peaceful stretches and light Class I–II riffles. It’s a comfortable afternoon paddle—perfect for families or groups—so pack water and snacks to enjoy along the way.

Put-In: 520 Gray’s Rd., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 at the Twitty Bridge
Take-Out: 2254 Coxe Rd., Rutherfordton, NC 28139

Hwy. 221 Access → Hwy. 221-A Access

4 miles · 3 hours · Easy

Ways to travel: Paddleboard, Kayak, Canoe

A beginner-friendly stretch with broad views, gentle flows, and abundant wildlife. This short float offers a relaxed way to experience the river, with plenty of time for a snack stop or quiet break along the sandy banks.

Put-In: 6480 U.S. Hwy. 221 N, Forest City, NC 28043
Take-Out: 5360 US-221A Hwy, Mooresboro, NC 28114

Moderate Trips

River Creek Campground → River Road

7 miles · 3.5+ hours · Moderate
Ways to travel: Kayak, Canoe

This longer section includes rapids that require basic maneuvering skills. A parking fee applies at River Creek Campground (if reopened). Always check river levels before attempting this route. The first mile of this trip can be very shallow during low flows (less than 1.5'). At one mile, Cove Creek enters the Broad and deepens the water. If the water level on the Cove Creek gauge is above two feet, the water level is usually fine to float.

Put-In: River Creek Campground, 179 River Creek Dr., Rutherfordton, NC 28139
Take-Out: River Rd., Rutherfordton, NC 28139 (unofficial but public)

River Road → Gray’s Road Access

7 miles · 3–4 hours · Moderate

Ways to travel: Kayak, Canoe

Starting from an unofficial but public put-in, this section combines meandering waters with a number of obstacles that require maneuvering. It’s a quiet, shaded stretch with plenty of character, best suited for paddlers ready for light challenges.

Put-In: River Rd., Rutherfordton, NC 28139
Take-Out: 520 Gray's Rd, Rutherfordton, NC 28139

Coxe Road Access → Hwy. 221 Access

14 miles · 6–7 hours · Moderate (due to distance)
Ways to travel: Paddleboard, Kayak, Canoe

A full-day paddle for those ready to spend the day on the water. While the current is mostly easy, the length makes this trip moderate overall. Below the confluence with the Green, the river widens, offering open views and good spots for a riverside picnic. There are a few fun splashy class II rapids on this section, so be prepared to get wet.

Put-In: 2254 Coxe Rd., Rutherfordton, NC 28139
Take-Out: 6480 U.S. Hwy. 221 N, Forest City, NC 28043

Hwy. 221-A → Broad River Greenway

7.5 miles · 5 hours · Moderate

Ways to travel: Kayak, Canoe, Paddleboard

This route requires a portage on river right. You will need to carry your boats about 200 yards around the Duke Energy Cliffside Dam. Below the dam the river is wide and easy to navigate with a few class I, II riffles. There is also a USGS gage on this section. If the level is above 1.5 feet, there will be plenty of water. If the level is above 3 feet, proceed with extreme caution.

Put-In: 5360 U.S. Hwy. 221-A, Mooresboro, NC 28114
Take-Out: Broad River Greenway, 126 Broad River Dr., Shelby, NC 28152

Broad River Greenway → Big Bay Access (South Carolina)

7 miles · 5 hours · Moderate

Ways to travel: Kayak, Canoe, Paddleboard

Crossing into South Carolina, this section begins at the Broad River Greenway and flows to Big Bay. There are a few fun riffles to begin the trip, then the river slows down. The dam below Big Bay backs the water up for about the last 1.5 miles of the trip, so you will need to be prepared to paddle, not just float, to get to the takeout. It’s a scenic route with dependable water levels.

Put-In: Broad River Greenway, 126 Broad River Dr., Shelby, NC 28152
Take-Out: Big Bay Access, 197–399 Sarratt Rd., Gaffney, SC 29341

People in inflatable kayaks going along the Broad River in some fun rapids with helmets & PFDs

River Safety Basics

A safe trip makes for the best memories. Keep these guidelines in mind before you launch:

Always wear a life jacket. Even in calm water, it’s your best protection.
Check river levels. Review the USGS gauge before each trip—especially for the section from the Lake Lure dam down to River Road. South of River Road, flow is typically high enough for paddling (between 1.5-3 ft.). Do not paddle or swim in high muddy waters.
Know your route. Choose a section that matches your time, comfort, and skill level. See our Suggested Trips above for options.
Bring essentials. Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, proper footwear, and a dry bag for valuables.
Don’t paddle alone. Travel with friends or family whenever possible.
Respect the river. Conditions can change quickly. Stay alert and watch for obstacles such as overhanging limbs, submerged logs, or strainers that can trap debris and pose a hazard.
Paddleboarding is recommended for experienced paddlers only.

lady on a paddle board enjoying the Broad River Paddle Trail

The Broad's River Rating

The Broad River is generally rated Class I–II. According to American Whitewater, Class II (Novice) rapids are “straightforward rapids with wide, clear channels that are easy to navigate, requiring occasional maneuvering.” This means paddlers may encounter medium-sized waves and minor obstacles like rocks, but these sections remain suitable for beginners, offering gentle excitement with low risk. When approaching a rapid, watch for the “V” in the water to guide you through the most passable route. Self-rescue is usually straightforward if a boat tips.

Learn More About Ratings

River Flow & Gauges (USGS)

Check real-time river levels and flow conditions from USGS before you head out to ensure a safe and enjoyable paddle. If you are below River Rd, flow is usually fine. Ideal water flow for paddling is between 1.5 and 3 ft. on the Cove Creek or Boiling Springs gage.

Check Levels Now

Broad River Paddle Trail - family-friendly paddling made easy

The Trail winds through 12 unique sections across Rutherford and Cleveland counties. Open the sections below to see access points, distances, and river features. Details shared in partnership with the Rutherford Outdoor Coalition. Contact ROC for annual clean-up info.

SECTION 1: Lake Lure Dam / Island Creek Rd → Rock Springs Church Rd

Difficulty: 3 | Length: 3.3 miles

Start your journey just below the Lake Lure Dam and ease into the uppermost stretch of the Broad River. This section features mostly Class I–II water with several short rapids that require careful reading and basic paddling experience. Helmets and skirts are recommended for kayakers.

Put-In: Small unmarked gravel area near Island Creek Rd. (unofficial access). Space for 2–3 cars. Scramble down the bank to launch.

Take-Out: River Creek Campground (private). Call ahead to request access; a $5 parking fee is suggested. Additional unofficial take-outs exist along US 64/74-A before Rock Springs Church Rd.

SECTION 2: Rock Springs Church Rd → Clark Rd

Difficulty: 2 | Length: 4.25 miles

A peaceful stretch with gentle riffles and scenic banks—ideal for those with some river experience. The first few miles feature light rapids, followed by an easy float through shallow water (3–4 feet deep).

Put-In: River Creek Campground (private). Call ahead to arrange access and parking ($5 suggested fee). Small store with food and drinks available.

Take-Out: No official access. Some paddlers exit on the left bank near the dredging company before the bridge—permission is not guaranteed. The safer option is to continue to River Rd.

SECTION 3: Clark Rd → River Rd

Difficulty: 2 | Length: 3.75 miles

A scenic float through tree-lined banks and minimal development. Water remains calm and predictable, with the occasional shallow riffle during low flow.

Put-In: Informal access at Clark Rd. (see Section 2 notes).

Take-Out: Informal access under the River Rd bridge. Park only near the bridge on Thompson Lake Rd; do not block private driveways or park in fields.

Section 4: River Rd → Grays Rd

Difficulty: 2 | Length: 7.05 miles

A beautiful stretch of river with calm flats and light riffles. Expect some maneuvering around downed trees, especially after storms.

Put-In: Informal access under the River Rd bridge (limited parking).

Take-Out: 520 Grays Rd River Access (Rutherford County’s first official public access). Paved parking, concrete steps with rails, and an articulating dock. Managed by NC Wildlife Resources Commission.

Section 5: Grays Rd → Coxe Rd

Difficulty: 2 | Length: 4.08 miles

This is one of the most popular and scenic sections, with mostly Class I rapids and one Class II drop. The river meanders under shaded banks, passing a rope swing and several play spots along the way.

Put-In: Grays Rd River Access (520 Grays Rd, Rutherfordton). Paved parking, concrete steps, articulating dock. Managed by NC Wildlife.

Take-Out: Coxe Rd River Access (2254 Coxe Rd, Rutherfordton). Paved parking, concrete steps, dock under US 74 bridge.

Section 6: Coxe Rd → Poors Ford Rd

Difficulty: 2 | Length: 4.3 miles

A wider, more open section of river that joins the Green River around mile 3. While mostly calm, some debris and downed trees may appear after high water.

Put-In: Coxe Rd River Access (2254 Coxe Rd, Rutherfordton). Modern facilities with parking, concrete steps, and dock.

Take-Out: No official public take-out at this time.

Section 7: Poors Ford Rd → Big Island Rd

Difficulty: 2 | Length: 3 miles

A transitional section of river featuring light current and potential log jams. This is a scenic, undeveloped stretch suitable for experienced paddlers comfortable with limited access.

Put-In / Take-Out: No official or informal access currently available at either bridge.

Section 8: Big Island Rd → Jack McKinney Rd

Difficulty: 2 | Length: 2.6 miles

This peaceful segment offers a relaxed flow and picturesque surroundings—an enjoyable float when combined with nearby sections.

Put-In / Take-Out: No public access currently available at either bridge.

Section 9: Jack McKinney Rd → US 221

Difficulty: 2 | Length: 3.75 miles

A quiet, steady stretch connecting the mid-river area to more developed access points downstream. Best enjoyed as part of a longer route.

Put-In: Limited access points; confirm with ROC for current conditions.

Take-Out: Hwy 221 Access (6480 US 221 N, Forest City, NC 28043).

Section 10: US 221 → US 221A

Difficulty: 2 | Length: 4 miles

A newly improved section featuring modern public put-in and take-out points, making this one of the most accessible segments of the Broad River.

Put-In: Hwy 221 Access (6480 US 221 N, Forest City, NC 28043).

Take-Out: Hwy 221-A Access (5360 US 221-A, Mooresboro, NC 28114).

Section 11: US 221A → Lake Houser

Difficulty: 2 | Length: 3 miles

A calm, quiet stretch that requires a portage around the Duke Energy Cliffside Dam (river right, approx. 200 yards). Ends at Lake Houser with fee-based parking.

Put-In: Hwy 221-A Access (5360 US 221-A, Mooresboro, NC 28114).

Take-Out: Lake Houser Adventures (1350 Lake Houser Rd, Mooresboro). Private property—public access allowed with a fee.

Section 12: Lake Houser → Broad River Greenway

Difficulty: 1 | Length: 4.5 miles

The final leg of the Broad River Paddle Trail flows directly into the Broad River Greenway. Expect calm water, scenic views, and convenient facilities at the take-out.

Put-In: Lake Houser Adventures (1350 Lake Houser Rd, Mooresboro). Private property—public access allowed with a fee.

Take-Out: Broad River Greenway (126 Broad River Dr., Shelby, NC). Fee required for access and parking.

Plan Your Trip

Official River Access Points

With calm waters and easy access, this River is perfect for families, groups & paddlers of all ages

Suggested Trips