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Obed Wild & Scenic River IMG_6089
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Experiencing the Obed

The Obed Wild and Scenic River looks much the same today as it did when the first white settlers strolled its banks in the late 1700s. While meagerly populated due to poor farming soil, the river was a hospitable fishing and hunting area for trappers and pioneers. Today, the Obed stretches along the Cumberland Plateau and offers visitors a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities.
 
whitewater paddling along the rushing current

Paddling

Canoeing, kayaking, and rafting bring many people to the Obed. The river includes three different difficulty classifications (II-IV), making it one of the best whitewater rivers in the eastern United States.

 
Rock Climbing

Rock Climbing

The Obed's rock faces provide a challenging climbing opportunity for experienced climbers, with several hundred climbing routes spanning through much of the park. Boulder climbing is also available along the Obed.
 
Fishing

Fishing

Fishing opportunities are plentiful at the Obed Wild and Scenic River. An assortment of smallmouth bass, bluegills, catfish, and muskie are but a few of the various fish that swim the river.
 
Hiking

Hiking

Hiking the trails along the Obed Wild and Scenic River is one of the most enjoyable activities that we have to offer. Several different trails with different lengths and scenery are available.

 

 
Obed and National Park Service logo

Social Media

Keep up to date and interact with Obed:

@ObedWSR on Twitter

and

ObedWSR on Facebook

 

 
 

Write to

Obed Wild and Scenic River
P.O. Box 429
Wartburg, TN 37887

E-mail Us

Phone

Visitor Information
(423) 346-6294

Fax

(423) 346-3362

Climate

The Obed Wild and Scenic River sees a variety of weather patterns throughout the year. Spring and winter are usually the best times to paddle on the river, as increased water levels are common. Flooding can occur after several consecutive days of precipitation, however. Summers are generally hot and humid, resulting in lower water levels. Temperatures during the summer often reach over 90 degrees.  Winter water levels are generally navigable, and winter temperatures can drop below 30 degrees. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable clothing for possible extremes in temperature and climate.
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Did You Know?

Did You Know?
Did you know that sandstone cliffs rise up to 400 feet above the Obed river? The cliffs can be most prominent along the Lilly Bluff area of the river.

Last Updated: January 10, 2012 at 09:57 MST

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