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Access Site KY

Put In

Otter Creek

Source: american_whitewater Updated 3 months ago

City: KY
County: Madison
Type: Whitewater Put In
Location: 37.82490000, -84.27530000
Air Temp: --
Location
Nearby Gauge Conditions
Whitewater Run
II(III) Put-in Otter Creek - Bill Eades Rd. (W.Fork / Main Stem) to KY388 (Red House Rd) (4.6 miles)
27 ft/mi
View Run
Current Conditions
Whitewater Runs on Otter Creek
1 run
There are no whitewater runs within 50 miles of this access site.
These whitewater runs are on the same river but located more than 50 miles from this access site.
Difficulty Classes
I Easy II Novice III Intermediate IV Advanced V Expert/Extreme VI Unrunnable
Whitewater data from American Whitewater
About This Access Site
Put In is a whitewater put-in access point on Otter Creek in Madison County, Kentucky. Otter Creek is a significant stream classified as a large river (Stream Order 6) with a drainage area of 699 square miles. The creek originates in the headwaters and drops approximately 1,231 feet in elevation over its 85-mile length, creating an average gradient of 14.5 feet per mile. This gradient indicates consistent moving water suitable for whitewater paddling activities.

The average flow rate of 38.85 cubic feet per second and velocity of 1.91 feet per second suggest moderate current conditions that require paddling skill. Boaters using this put-in should be prepared for whitewater conditions typical of a headwater stream with significant elevation change. The creek's large drainage area and stream classification indicate it is a substantial waterway capable of handling various paddling craft.

Paddlers should consider the creek's gradient and flow characteristics when planning trips from this access point. Water conditions can vary seasonally based on rainfall and runoff, which affects both flow volume and current speed. Proper assessment of current conditions before launching is recommended for safe paddling on Otter Creek.