Broad River
🏔 Scenic River
Cherokee / Union Co. · 150 mi · Class I–II
1,220CFS/ 2.91 ft
Optimal→Stable
Water temp: 63°F
Optimal: 500–5,000 CFS · USGS #02156500
Length
Difficulty
Optimal
Avg Flow
Hist. Median
USGS Gauge
SC Scenic River · Broad River Waterfowl Area
A wide Piedmont river flowing 150 miles from the North Carolina border through upstate South Carolina to Columbia, where it merges with the Saluda to form the Congaree. Rocky shoals, Class I–II rapids, and the famous Broad River shoals near Columbia make this a year-round paddling destination.
Trip sections
Upper — Cherokee County to Lockhart, 50 mi, Piedmont shoals
Middle — Lockhart to Parr Shoals, 50 mi, islands and rapids
Lower — Parr Shoals to Columbia, 50 mi, approaching the capital
Outfitters
Broad River Outfitters
Kayak and canoe rentals for Broad River paddling
72-Hour Flow Forecast
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10-Year Flow Patterns
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Your Optimal Range
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Data Quality
River conditions are community-verified. CFS ranges, difficulty ratings, and trip sections may not reflect every flow level or seasonal change. Always check current conditions, scout unfamiliar rapids, and paddle within your skill level. If you spot an error, use the Improve This River button at the top of the page — your local knowledge is what makes this atlas accurate.