Put In

Laurel Creek's Put In at Damascus provides access to a scenic whitewater stream in southwestern Virginia. This is a headwater section of Laurel Creek, a medium-sized river (stream order 4) with a steep average gradient of 63.6 feet per mile. The water conditions here reflect the upper watershed characteristics with significant elevation drop and faster current flow typical of these headwater sections. Paddlers should expect moderate to moderately fast water conditions with an average velocity of 1.8 feet per second and a drainage area of 67 square miles feeding into this access point.

The Damascus location places this put-in in the heart of Virginia's whitewater country. With an average flow of 147.72 cubic feet per second, Laurel Creek offers consistent water for paddling throughout much of the year. The 21.24-mile total length of the creek provides multiple run options and takeout possibilities downstream. Boaters using this access should be prepared for whitewater conditions appropriate to a medium river with steep gradient and moderate volume flow.