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Kentucky River Pool 4 — Clifton to Lee's Ramp: Water Level Today — Can You Paddle It?

Kentucky River · Class I · Kentucky

Current verdict

No runnable range yet

We don’t have a runnable range for this section yet — many of these are calm or dam-controlled reaches. Here’s the current gauge reading; check it (and, for tailwaters, the dam’s generation schedule) before you go.

2,590 cfs/ 7.8 ft gauge
Estimated range

USGS gauge 03287500 · updated Jul 9, 8:30 AM UTC

7-day flow trend

8,0381,1022026-07-022026-07-08
Daily mean flow (cfs), past 7 days. Shaded band = runnable range.

Section facts

Difficulty
Class I
Length
10.5 mi
Float time
~5 hr
Best months
April–October
Put-in
Clifton Marina & Boat Ramp
Take-out
Lee's Ramp

Reading USGS gauge 03287500 — KENTUCKY RIVER AT LOCK 4 AT FRANKFORT, KY · runnable range is an estimate (see methodology)

FAQ

What water level is good for paddling Kentucky River Pool 4 — Clifton to Lee's Ramp?

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 Kentucky River levels?

We read USGS gauge 03287500 — 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 Kentucky River Pool 4 — Clifton to Lee's Ramp 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 Kentucky 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 Kentucky River Pool 4 — Clifton to Lee's Ramp?

This reach is about 10.5 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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