Drakes Creek — Phil Moore Park to KY 2629 (Alvaton): Water Level Today — Can You Paddle It?
Drakes Creek · Class I · Kentucky
Current verdict
Good to paddle
Levels are within the typical runnable range for this section.
USGS gauge 03314000 · updated Jul 9, 7:45 AM UTC
7-day flow trend
Section facts
- Difficulty
- Class I
- Length
- 5 mi
- Float time
- ~2.5 hr
- Best months
- March–October
- Put-in
- Phil Moore Park (US 231)
- Take-out
- KY 2629 bridge (Old Scottsville Rd), Alvaton
Reading USGS gauge 03314000 — DRAKES CREEK NEAR ALVATON, KY ↗
FAQ
What water level is good for paddling Drakes Creek — Phil Moore Park to KY 2629 (Alvaton)?
This section is generally runnable at above 100 cfs. Below that it gets too low and bony; well above the top of the range it becomes pushy and then dangerous. We compare the live USGS reading to that range to produce today's verdict.
How do I check Drakes Creek levels?
We read USGS gauge 03314000 — 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 Drakes Creek — Phil Moore Park to KY 2629 (Alvaton) good for beginners?
This section is rated Class I. 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 Drakes Creek here?
Typically March–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 Drakes Creek — Phil Moore Park to KY 2629 (Alvaton)?
This reach is about 5 miles, roughly 2.5 hours at a relaxed pace. Higher water is faster; low water and headwinds are slower. Add time for stops.