The North Fork Broad River has its headwaters in Stephens County near Toccoa. The section described here provides a mild journey through a mostly wooded environment near the end of the river. Although not covered here, the river can also be navigated in the hilly areas of southern Stephens County; the consistently mild gradient produces few rapids or shoals. After entering Franklin County, passage becomes difficult, as a great deal of the river's course becomes slow flowing and marshy. Deadfall portages are frequent from the crossing of GA 145 north of Carnesville downstream to Jackson Bridge Road. To avoid an unpleasant experience, it is inadvisable to attempt this section above Jackson Bridge unless there has been above-average but not torrential rainfall.

JACKSON BRIDGE TO US 29 ON THE NORTH FORK BROAD RIVER

TRIP SUMMARY: Class, 1-II; Length, 9.9 miles; Time, 5 hours; Gauge, none; Level, unknown; Gradient, 9 feet per mile; Scenery C. VIEW INTERACTIVE MAP.

DESCRIPTION: Most paddlers prefer to begin at Jackson Bridge Road, or for a shorter trip, 3.4 miles farther downstream at GA 51. Here, the progress is aided by an increase in flow volume and a gradient of over 13 feet per mile. The streamside environment provides miles of secluded paddling and potential wildlife encounters. After GA 145 crosses the stream (near the intersection with GA 51), the North Fork is subsumed by the Middle Fork. GA 145 is the easiest take-out point: the US 29 access point 3.5 miles farther downstream involves a steep carry-out on the river-right side.

SHUTTLE: From Danielsville, take US 29 north to the bridge over the Middle Fork Broad River. Access is available via the dirt road on the right just before the start of the bridge guardrail. To get to the put-in, continue on US 29 toward Franklin Springs and turn left onto GA 145. Follow GA 145 as it turns to the northwest after crossing the North Fork; turn right onto Jackson Bridge Road and follow the road to the bridge and the river.

GAUGE: There is no gauge on the river. The local outfitter may be able to provide advice over the phone.

MAPS: USGS 1:24,000 topographical maps: Carnesville, Danielsville North; County maps, Franklin

Tagged with: North Fork Broad River Savannah River Watershed Paddling Guides

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