NORTH CAROLINA - North Carolina's diverse geography, from the high peaks of the Appalachian Mountains to the coastal plains, creates a rich network of rivers. While many face environmental pressures, a significant number of waterways, particularly those originating in the protected mountain wilderness of the western part of the state, are renowned for their exceptional purity, clarity, and ecological health. Here's a guide to some of the top contenders for the cleanest rivers in North Carolina.
The Mountain Headwaters: Where Purity Begins
The cleanest rivers in North Carolina are almost universally found in the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains, where their sources are protected within national forests and parks.
- The Horsepasture River:
- Why It's a Top Spot: Designated as a National Wild and Scenic River, the Horsepasture River in Transylvania County is celebrated for its exceptional water quality and stunning beauty. It's known for a series of breathtaking waterfalls, including Rainbow Falls and Turtleback Falls.
- The Experience: This river is a popular destination for advanced kayakers and for hikers who follow the trails to view its spectacular cascades.
- The Linville River:
- Why It's a Top Spot: Flowing through the rugged, 2,000-foot-deep Linville Gorge Wilderness (often called the "Grand Canyon of the East"), the Linville River is a mighty and pristine waterway. Its remote location and protected status ensure its water remains exceptionally clean.
- The Experience: The gorge offers some of the most challenging and rewarding hiking and backpacking in the state, with stunning views of the river below.
- The Davidson River:
- Why It's a Top Spot: Located near Brevard, the Davidson River is considered a benchmark for water quality. Its ability to support a thriving, year-round, naturally reproducing population of wild trout makes it a world-class fly fishing destination. Wild trout are an indicator species, meaning they can only survive in cold, clean, and highly oxygenated water.
- The Experience: Anglers from all over come to test their skills in its crystal-clear waters.
An Ancient Waterway: The New River
- Why It's a Top Spot: Paradoxically, one of the world's oldest rivers, the New River, is also recognized for being remarkably clean for a large waterway. The North and South Forks in North Carolina are designated National Wild and Scenic Rivers.
- The Experience: Its gentle current and clean water make it one of the most popular rivers in the state for canoeing, kayaking, tubing, and smallmouth bass fishing.
The Official Standard: Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW)
North Carolina's Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) designates its highest-quality waters as Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW). Many of the rivers listed above, along with dozens of other small, pristine mountain streams, carry this official designation, protecting them from new pollution sources and ensuring their continued health.
North Carolina's cleanest rivers are its mountain jewels. Waterways like the Horsepasture, Linville, Davidson, and New Rivers represent the pinnacle of water purity in the state of North Carolina, also known as the Tar Heel State. Their crystal-clear waters, protected status, and ability to support sensitive ecosystems make them invaluable natural resources, providing breathtaking destinations for anyone looking to experience the wild, untamed beauty of North Carolina.
