Big South Fork — Yamacraw to Alum Ford: Water Level Today — Can You Paddle It?
Big South Fork Cumberland River · Class II · Kentucky
Current verdict
Level unavailable
We can’t read this gauge right now, so we can’t give a verdict. Check the USGS gauge page directly before relying on any estimate.
USGS gauge 03410600
7-day flow trend
Section facts
- Difficulty
- Class II
- Length
- 7.8 mi
- Float time
- ~5.5 hr
- Best months
- April–October
- Put-in
- Yamacraw Bridge Access (KY 92)
- Take-out
- Alum Ford (KY 700, Big South Fork NRRA)
Reading USGS gauge 03410600 — SOUTH FORK CUMBERLAND RIVER NEAR YAMACRAW, KY ↗ · runnable range is an estimate (see methodology)
FAQ
What water level is good for paddling Big South Fork — Yamacraw to Alum Ford?
We don't yet have a published runnable range for this section, so we can't give a firm number. Check the live USGS gauge and ask a local outfitter before you go.
How do I check Big South Fork Cumberland River levels?
We read USGS gauge 03410600 — the same public data USGS publishes — about every 30 minutes and compare it to the runnable range for this reach. You can also view the raw gauge yourself at waterdata.usgs.gov.
Is Big South Fork — Yamacraw to Alum Ford good for beginners?
This section is rated Class II. At good levels it suits confident beginners and up, but it can have riffles or small rapids. Scout anything you can't see, and stay off it at high water.
When is the best time to paddle Big South Fork Cumberland River here?
Typically April–October, when flows are most reliable for this section. Spring can run high after rain or snowmelt; late summer can drop too low. Always check today's gauge reading rather than assuming.
How long does it take to float Big South Fork — Yamacraw to Alum Ford?
This reach is about 7.8 miles, roughly 5.5 hours at a relaxed pace. Higher water is faster; low water and headwinds are slower. Add time for stops.