A trip on the Toe River Canoe Trail takes paddlers on an adventure-filled journey through class I, II and III rapids, passing beautiful scenic views of mountains, rapids and valleys on its 37 mile journey from the town of Spruce Pine to Poplar Township. The river itself begins in Avery County on the western slope of Sugar Mountain where it flows south to the Nolichucky River before crossing into Tennessee and eventually the Mississippi River and the Gulf of Mexico.
The Toe River Valley Canoe Trail begins at Riverside Park on the North Toe River in the town of Spruce Pine. From there it continues at an easy pace of about 2-3 miles per hour allowing for plenty of sightseeing on the way to Poplar Township on Hwy 197 North. Below Poplar the river becomes more dangerous with numerous class III and IV rapids which should only be attempted by experienced whitewater paddlers.
Wildlife on the Toe River
Various species of wildlife can be found along the river including over 40 species of fish and other rare animals such such as the Eastern hellbender, a salamander that can reach up to two feet in length and is often found on the end of a fisherman's line. Small mouth bass and muskie can also be found along the lower river sections.
Trout fishing is another big draw for the area and signs are prominently posted listing the regulations for specific streams and rivers. The town of Spruce Pine is designated a Mountain Heritage Trout City and special three-day fishing licenses are available for purchase at Spruce Pine Town Hall. Guides and outfitters are available for those seeking to learn the secrets of how to hook into a rainbow or brook trout.
Paddling the Toe River
Planning a float trip on the Toe River is relatively easy, especially when using local outfitters for guided and unguided river trips. For paddlers wishing to tackle the river using their own watercraft, they should obtain a river map from local outfitters. The map shows regular access points along its length that make trip planning easy.
At Spruce Pine, paddlers will want to put in downtown at the park on Riverside Drive. The take-out for this section is downstream off of 19E heading toward Burnsville. Turn right onto Penland Road to River Road to reach a small access point on the river. Use caution and avoid blocking traffic at this location. Inexperienced boaters should take out here to avoid the next section.
The section from Boonford to Roses Branch can be hazardous due to the numerous class II+ rapids and should not be attempted by the inexperienced. There is a dangerous low-water bridge that should be portaged as it has metal debris beneath it, and once past the bridge the river enters a long, canyon section on its way to a class III rapid named Abby Three. Before running this section consult with local outfitters regarding current river conditions..
From Roses Branch, the next access points are at Newdale Bridge, Toecane Road, Redhill, Green Mountain, Pigeon Roost, Huntdale and the takout at Poplar.
The Toe River is one of the few locations that permits overnight camping, but before heading out for a trip on one of North Carolina's finest paddling, fishing and camping destinations, be aware of the river levels and plan accordingly. Water levels can be estimated by viewing the gauges here and here. Make your next adventure a safe one.
Additional Resources:
Rivers Edge Outfitters, (828) 765-3475
Loafers Glory Rafting and Tubing, 1-866-933-5628
Beverly Hill - Beverly is an outdoor adventure writer who owns and maintains Northwest Florida Outdoor Adventure.
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