Red River — Middle Gorge (KY 715 to KY 77): Water Level Today — Can You Paddle It?
Red River · Class II · 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.
USGS gauge 03283500 · updated Jul 9, 8:15 AM UTC
7-day flow trend
Section facts
- Difficulty
- Class II
- Length
- 8 mi
- Float time
- ~3.5 hr
- Best months
- April–October
- Put-in
- KY 715 bridge (Red River Gorge)
- Take-out
- KY 77 bridge (blue steel bridge)
Reading USGS gauge 03283500 — RED RIVER AT CLAY CITY, KY ↗ · runnable range is an estimate (see methodology)
FAQ
What water level is good for paddling Red River — Middle Gorge (KY 715 to KY 77)?
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 Red River levels?
We read USGS gauge 03283500 — 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 Red River — Middle Gorge (KY 715 to KY 77) 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 Red 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 Red River — Middle Gorge (KY 715 to KY 77)?
This reach is about 8 miles, roughly 3.5 hours at a relaxed pace. Higher water is faster; low water and headwinds are slower. Add time for stops.