Stonewall Tailwaters to Middle Run - West Fork River

by  jbryzek

A self-supported trip created by jbryzek

Trip Overview

Put in: Stonewall Jackson WVDNR Tailwaters Access

Take Out:

Length: 3.4 miles

Estimated Time: 1.5 hours

Flow: Impoundment, Bendale Dam located 1.7 miles from put-in, portage on river right

Class: Flatwater

Description: The upper section is mostly slow and flat. A nice forested ecosystem parrallels river right. The river passes under I-79 bridge. A suspended cable spanned the river near the DOH building but you could float under it. Approximately 1.7 miles into the paddle, you must portage on river right to avoid Bendale Dam. There is a sign on river Right to alert river uses of the dam. Portaged around the dam using a rough narrow fisherman trail. Continued down the river 1.7 miles to Middle Run Bridge in Weston. There was some debris in the water that created exciting riffles, but no blockages. Take out was a muddy bank and grass path / "ramp". There was a public access sign on the road. Water level seems to be about 6 inches above normal flow levels. This section has many houses and industrial buildings visible from the riverway. There were some notable places of stream erosion where riparian trees were absent. There was a good amount of litter along stream banks. Saw an otter!

Safety Notes

Portage required

Portage Notes

1.7 miles from the put-in, portage on river right to avoid Bendale Dam. River right property is owned by American Water. There is a small fishermen's trail.

Trip Details

  • Trip Dates: 4/4/2023
  • Sport/Activity: Kayaking, Canoeing, Stand Up Paddling, Kayak Fishing
  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate
  • Water Type: Flat/Sheltered Water, River/Creek (Up to Class II)
  • Number of Portages: 1

Trip Location