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The U.S.F.S. take-out at Chestoa provides access to the Nolichucky River, a significant whitewater resource in East Tennessee. This is a take-out point, meaning it's designed for paddlers finishing their runs rather than launching. The Nolichucky River at this location is a large stream order 7 river with substantial flow averaging over 2400 cubic feet per second and a relatively steep gradient of 9.2 feet per mile, indicating continuous whitewater character suitable for intermediate to advanced paddlers.
The site is situated in Unicoi County at an elevation of approximately 1044 feet above the lowest point of the river system. The surrounding area features typical Appalachian geography with significant elevation changes across the watershed's 113-mile length. Being a U.S. Forest Service facility, the access point is maintained as part of the public recreation infrastructure in the region.
Paddlers using this take-out should be prepared for the dynamic conditions typical of the Nolichucky River, which maintains strong current and continuous gradient throughout this section. The site provides essential egress for commercial and private whitewater operations running the river.