French Broad River
Tennessee Scenic River - Class III Developed River Area
The French Broad River is 213 miles long. It begins just west of the Eastern Continental Divide near Rosman NC and flows into Tennessee where it is impounded behind Douglas Dam and continues to the confluence with the Holston River in Knoxville, TN. Experienced and novice paddlers as well as anglers love the river because of its diverse intensity and scenic beauty throughout the seasons. The 33 mile scenic river section provides nine access points along more than forty miles of blueway extending from the NC line to Walters Bridge at river mile 64.4 in Jefferson County. From this point there are no public access areas until you reach Mountain Cove Marina at river mile 32.4 just before Douglas Dam. Whitewater rafting is popular through the Cherokee National Forest from the NC line to Del Rio, TN. Several rafting agencies provide raft and equipment rentals, as well as guided trips along this stretch of river. The French Broad River is part of the Tennessee Blueways Program (BluewaysTN).
Quick Facts
- Located in Cocke County
- Approximately 28.6 miles designated
- Designated a Class III Developed River Area on April 4, 1968 as "That segment from the North Carolina state line to its confluence with Douglas Lake."