Uwharrie River in North Carolina

Trip Overview

We entered the beautiful Uwharrie River at the Low Water Bridge just out from Eldorado. From Eldorado on Hwy 109 travel to Coggins Mine Rd. and turn right. Take a right on Low Water Bridge Road. Then arrive at the landing.

We had to do the normal vehicle shuffle and chose to leave our exit vehicle at Morrow Mountain State Park near the boat ramp. The staff were very helpful and friendly. Our vehicle was safe and not vandalized while left. After arriving back at the point of entry, our party of three kayaks, set off on the smoothly flowing river.

This section of the river to the Hwy 109 bridge is mostly slow paddling, with a few shallow sections. As there is no working water gauge on the Uwharrie, we estimated that it was flowing around 2'. It would be nice to have a little more water, but none the less, we made it without alot of trouble. We put in at 1145, and arrived at 109 at 1600. This was 6.8 miles by GPS.

We decided to paddle past the 109 to find a place to camp. Within a short distance after the bridge we encountered shallow water. I was riding on my new Ascend fs128t 12'6" sit on top kayak, and had to exit a few times and drag. Overall it wasn't bad, but more water would have been nice.

We arrived approx 1 mile down river from 109 and found a place to camp. We were located near Cotton Place parking area on a forestry service road. The scenery was great, and peaceful. After the evening meal, we sat by the fire and enjoyed conversation.

After a nights sleep, we ate breakfast and left at 1000. We encountered more swift water on this section. We encountered 4-5 up to class I sections. We had one class I + before arriving at the flat section leading into Lake Tillery. We paddled the approx. 2 miles of flat water and arrived at Morrow Mountain State Park at 1400.

The water was comfortable and most of all we had a peaceful trip. I would recommend this trip to anyone wishing to enjoy nature, and friendship.

Fees:

No

Directions:

US Hwy 109 from Uwharrie turn Right onto Coggins Mine Rd. Travel to Low Water Bridge Rd. and turn Right. Arrive at Low Water Bridge entrance to Uwharrie River