Cheoah River

The Cheoah River in Graham County, western North Carolina, is a short but powerful tributary of the Little Tennessee River, flowing approximately 20 miles from Santeetlah Lake near Robbinsville through a steep, scenic gorge before entering Calderwood Lake. It is famous for its thrilling whitewater experiences, especially on scheduled dam release days when it transforms into one of the most challenging and continuous Class IV-V runs in the Southeast. The river attracts advanced paddlers for expert-level rafting and kayaking, featuring steep drops, big waves, and technical rapids. Additional recreational activities include fly fishing for trout, hiking on nearby trails in the Nantahala National Forest, and exploring the surrounding mountain landscape.