1. US Route 501 to Route 1614

Data from Joe Greiner, local ex This section of the Flat is probably less popular than the lower, which goes to Lake Michie but it is decent and on par with other similarly rated rivers around. However, unlike the section further downstream, there is no permit required for parking if you take out earlier than the suggested one. There is some limited parking on Red Mountain Rd. Another option that gets the best stuff and shortens the trip a bit is to park on the shoulder of Moore's Mill Rd, but make sure you stay on the Durham County side before the No Parking Signs start at the line for Person County. This avoids two miles of flat water for this section and the parking fee at State Forest Rd, which is either $60/year or $13/day for a day pass, which can be purchased here if preferred. At 3.35 miles from the South Flat put in, there is Moore's Mill busted dam. It can be run at low water and is probably worth portaging at higher levels. Scouting is recommended regardless, getting out well ahead of the drop since current is strong at higher levels. After the dam, there are two ledges before Moore's Mill Rd and one similar and slightly tricky ledge immediately after the bridge. I would love to know the names of these if they ever had them if anyone knows. ZCS