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CanWePaddle

Green River — Green River Ferry to Houchin Ferry: Water Level Today — Can You Paddle It?

Green River · Flatwater · Kentucky

Current verdict

Good to paddle

Levels are within the typical runnable range for this section.

12.7 ft/ 1,930 cfs
Runnable ?–20 ft

USGS gauge 03309000 · updated Jul 9, 8:00 AM UTC

7-day flow trend

4,3838672026-07-022026-07-08
Daily mean flow (cfs), past 7 days. Shaded band = runnable range.

Section facts

Difficulty
Flatwater
Length
12.4 mi
Float time
~5 hr
Best months
April–October
Put-in
Green River Ferry Access (Mammoth Cave NP)
Take-out
Houchin Ferry Access (Mammoth Cave NP)

Reading USGS gauge 03309000 — GREEN RIVER AT MAMMOTH CAVE, KY

FAQ

What water level is good for paddling Green River — Green River Ferry to Houchin Ferry?

This section is generally runnable at below 20 ft. 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 Green River levels?

We read USGS gauge 03309000 — 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 Green River — Green River Ferry to Houchin Ferry good for beginners?

This is a flatwater section — no rapids under normal levels — so it's beginner-friendly when the gauge is in range. High water changes everything: cold, fast water is dangerous for anyone.

When is the best time to paddle Green 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 Green River — Green River Ferry to Houchin Ferry?

This reach is about 12.4 miles, roughly 5 hours at a relaxed pace. Higher water is faster; low water and headwinds are slower. Add time for stops.

Nearby sections

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