Moving water throughout the millennia left an indelible mark on Carter County, Kentucky. Water flowing through the ground melted the porous limestone bedrock prior to the creation of the Ohio River, creating a series of labyrinthine caves. The most scenic and unique of these are now contained within the boundaries of Carter Caves State Resort Park.

Through time, flowing water cut down into the bedrock and created the spectacular Tygarts Creek Gorge, rivaling anything found in Kentucky. The sheer slate gray bluffs of the gorge that rise straight from the banks and tower above you, the mild rapids and blue-green water draw paddlers to Tygarts Creek from all over Kentucky and surrounding states. Two floats showcase the Tygarts Creek Gorge. These floats are suitable for beginners and families at normal water levels, but grow more challenging at higher water.

The first float begins in downtown Olive Hill at the Tygarts Creek Rail Trail Park, adjacent to the KY 986 (Cross St.) bridge over the creek. The launch and parking area are on the right just before the bridge on Cross St. The take-out is at the KY 182 bridge at Carter Caves State Resort Park. Take U.S. 60 north out of Olive Hill to a left on KY 182. The parking area lies on the right just before you reach the bridge and entrance to the park.

This 12.5 mile section flows low and skinny at this time of year. Water levels of less than 150 cubic feet per second (cfs) make this section a challenge to complete in a day. Check the flows for Tygarts Creek on the U.S. Geological Survey website at www.waterdata.usgs.gov. Plan on launching just after dawn and arriving at the take-out at dusk.

Expect to carry your boat over shallow riffles and shoals in summer on this float. The smart paddler would quickly burn the first 6 miles of water till they reach the I-64 bridge, so they may enjoy the incredible views of the Tygarts Creek Gorge that begin shortly after the bridge. At water levels above 300 cfs, this float increases in difficultly, with several borderline Class II rapids. Also, strong current carries you into the many beautiful bluffs with overhanging rocks, so be mindful you don