The dam at Lake Glenville is released periodically throughout the year transforming High Falls from a gentle giant into the incredible hulk. There are two access points for High Falls. One right next to Glenville Dam and another just a couple miles down the road.
(Video: WNC Dronography)
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The High Falls Trail is a 3.7 mile out and back trail located near at the Lake Glenville dam. (See map below) There is ample parking at the trail head. This hike features the High Falls waterfall and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, nature trips, and bird watching and is accessible year-round. During water release kayakers use the trail to carry their gear to the river below.
West Fork Tuckasegee River 2026 Bypass Release Dates:
April 25-26
June 13
July 4
July 25
August 8
August 29
Target flow for all releases is 250 cfs and will be from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
WARNING: HIGH FLOWS AND THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT WHERE SUCH FLOWS OCCUR CAN CREATE DANGEROUS CONDITIONS IN THE BYPASSED REACH. DUKE ENERGY RELEASES THESE FLOWS SOLELY TO COMPLY
WITH ITS LICENSE REQUIREMENTS. DUKE ENERGY NEITHER ENCOURAGES NOR DISCOURAGES RECREATIONAL USE OF HIGH FLOWS BY THE PUBLIC. ANY RECREATIONAL USE BY THE PUBLIC DURING HIGH FLOWS SHOULD BE LIMITED TO EXPERIENCED BOATERS.
This event is worth the effort! The water flow changes is nothing short of amazing. You will be very safe - just stay out of the water! Experience kayak users flock to these releases to practice.
Click on the map image to bring it up on Google Maps
High Falls - Lake Glenville Dam Release
West Fork of the Tuckasegee River
Opening Day 2021 Kayak Run
This video from Southern Yak - Chronicles of my adventures in kayaking. ACA certified L4 Whitewater kayaking instructor. I live in Georgia so most stuff in the GA/NC/TN/Etc area.
(Southern Yak YouTube)