1. Rt. 624 to Rt. 630

This section of the North Fork Holston is a gem, with frequent class II rapids in a beautiful wooded gorge.  The Rt. 624 (Ridgedale Rd.) put-in is just before the gorge begins. A couple of miles in, the Rt. 629 (Ridge Rd.) bridge  would also be a good put-in, since the most interesting scenery and rapids are downstream, but access looks limited and it's well posted.  The class II increases in intensity until a low water bridge at an impressively situated fishing lodge (easy portage left).  A bit downstream is the first significant rapid, a II+ that can be run down the center V, or more easily on the far left over a small ledge.  A mile or so downstream is the second significant rapid, a II+ with a good drop and hole on the left, easily avoided by staying near the right bank where the gradient is more gradual.  Near the end of the trip is a low water bridge (portage right).  Lack of parking and extensive posted signs mean it's better to continue another half mile to the second Rt. 631 bridge. See Also: _Virginia Whitewater_, Roger Corbett (2000 ed.), p. 411. _Exploring Virginia's Waterways_, Ed Gertler (2022 ed.), p. 376.