Blackwater Creek Blueway – Curry Highway (Hwy 257) to Walston Bridge Road

Fishing
Paddling
Primitive Tent Camping
Dogs Allowed

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Access off Curry Highway (AL 257) turn on Camp O’Rear Rd and in 100 ft. turn on the gravel road running to the old bridge. Gravel parking area with space for cars along left side. Grassy area by entrance for trailers to park.
Semi-steep but stable gravel path down to the creek (~150ft from parking to creek). No kayak or canoe slide.

A scenic 4 mile trip with mostly shoals with some sections of Class II rapids. This section
of Blackwater is the most technical of the creek. It makes a great introductory trip for
beginner whitewater paddlers. However, if you are new to paddling, this section is not
recommended. Be aware of the water levels PRIOR to getting on the water. After the
put in, there are shoals and one small rapid. Be cautious of boulders and slabs at higher
water levels. The creek runs in a small gorge with higher, steeper and more wooded hills,
most of which are topped with low bluffs. Be mindful of the upcoming long shoal that
narrows to about 40 feet; the shoal has about a three foot drop and lots of rocks. The
largest rapid is known locally as the “S Curve” or “Rattlesnake Bend”. As you enter the
main rapid, the creek narrows to about 30 feet and there is a series of 7 hard rapids.

The first one (Class II) has a slot running diagonally right to left in the middle.
Immediately, cut diagonally from left to right for that series. Then, cut back
towards the middle and ride a series of waves. After that, the creek opens back
up to about 50 feet. There are two more shoals, with the second harder than
the first. Before you get to Walston Bridge, there is Camp O’ Rear, a Boy Scout
Camp, at the swinging bridge. Notice the beautiful bluffs on the left in the
curve after the bridge. There is a Rock House built into the side of the bluffs
on the left. On the right is Captain’s Landing, a primitive campsite for paddlers
only. From there to Walston Bridge Road access point, it is a flat, scenic paddle.


Water
Snacks/Food
Trail Map
Driving Direction/GPS
Insect Repellent
Hiking Shoes
Rain Gear
Compass
Sunscreen
Lip Balm
First Aid Kit
Emergency Contact Info
Driving Directions/GPS
Flashlight

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Blackwater Creek Blueway – Curry Highway (Hwy 257) to Walston Bridge Road | Trail length: 4 miles | Latitude: 33.9089591 | Longitude: -87.2560588 | 205.302.0001 Nearest Cities: Curry, Jasper


Activities Available: Fishing | Paddling
Amenities Available: Dog Friendly | Dogs Allowed | Primitive Camping