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Little River Canyon Kayak Put In, Little River Canyon National Preserve Travel Guide

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Launch your kayak into the heart of Little River Canyon, where thrilling whitewater and stunning scenery await experienced paddlers.

The Little River Canyon Kayak Put-In, near Fort Payne, Alabama, provides access to the Little River, known for its challenging whitewater kayaking. This unique river flows almost its entire length along the top of Lookout Mountain, offering diverse rapids for experienced kayakers.

A brief summary to Little River Canyon Kayak Put In

Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Little River Canyon Kayak Put In.

  • Check water levels before you go. The park brochure recommends a minimum of 400 CFS, but a ranger suggests 500 CFS. Levels above 1500 CFS are considered too dangerous.
  • Be prepared for a strenuous portage. Trails to the river can be steep and rocky.
  • The "Suicide Section" is only for expert kayakers. Scout the rapids beforehand and be honest about your abilities.
  • Leave a float plan with a friend. Include your put-in and take-out locations, and your estimated time on the river.
  • Wear a helmet and personal floatation device (PFD). These are essential safety gear for whitewater kayaking.

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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Fort Payne, take Alabama Highway 35 east for approximately 10 miles. Look for signs for Little River Canyon National Preserve. Turn onto Little River Trail NE (County Road 472). Follow this road to the kayak put-in. Parking is available in designated areas, but can be limited during peak season. There are no parking fees in this area.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Local taxi or rideshare services from Fort Payne can provide transportation to the kayak put-in. Expect to pay around $20-$30 for a one-way trip from downtown Fort Payne.

Discover more about Little River Canyon Kayak Put In

Little River Canyon Kayak Put-In serves as a thrilling entry point to the Little River Canyon National Preserve, a haven for experienced kayakers seeking challenging whitewater adventures. Located near Fort Payne, Alabama, this put-in offers access to a remarkable river system that flows almost entirely along the crest of Lookout Mountain.The river's difficulty varies depending on the section. The stretch from Little River Falls to Lower Two-Mile, infamously known as the "Suicide Section," is reserved for expert kayakers only, featuring Class IV-VI rapids. These demanding rapids require advanced skills and a deep understanding of whitewater navigation. Below Lower Two-Mile, the rapids transition to Class III-IV, providing a challenging but more accessible experience for seasoned kayakers.Little River itself is considered one of the cleanest and wildest waterways in the South. The surrounding Little River Canyon National Preserve was established in 1992 to protect the canyon's landscapes. The canyon features sandstone cliffs towering up to 600 feet above the river, creating a dramatic and scenic backdrop for kayaking adventures.Visitors can explore the Little River Canyon Center for information about the park.
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