Broad Riverkeeper Urges Caution After River Rescue

Low water, log jams and storm-related hazards continue to pose risks on Broad River Paddle Trail

The Broad Riverkeeper is urging the public to use caution when recreating on the Broad River after a group of people floating in tubes became stranded for more than eight hours and required a rescue by Rutherford County emergency personnel.

According to a public service announcement issued by the Broad Riverkeeper, the incident occurred on July 3 on the Gray's Road to Coxe Road section of the Broad River Paddle Trail.

The group reportedly became trapped in trees and log jams, known as "strainers" and "sweepers," while tubing. They were rescued by Rutherford County first responders after dark, according to public audio from emergency communications.

Audio from the public records show there were six adults, and two toddlers in the group.

"It was a dangerous and awful way to spend over 8 hours in the water," the statement said.

The warning comes as waterways across western North Carolina continue to recover from the destruction caused by Hurricane Helene, which dramatically reshaped rivers and streams throughout the region in September 2024. Floodwaters uprooted thousands of trees, deposited massive amounts of woody debris and altered river channels, creating new hazards for recreational users.

While federal, state and local agencies have spent more than 21 months removing storm debris from rivers and public rights-of-way, officials caution that debris removal does not eliminate every hazard. New log jams can form after heavy rains, and submerged trees, branches and other obstructions may not be visible from the water's surface.

The Broad Riverkeeper said volunteers cleared tires and many obstacles with chainsaws this spring and plan to return to remove additional debris. Even so, paddlers should expect to encounter fallen trees, woody debris, strainers and sweepers between Lake Lure and the Coxe Road access, they said. 

The organization is advising the public not to use tubes on any section of the Broad River Paddle Trail, noting that the distance between access points exceeds 4.5 miles, making tubing unsafe—especially during periods of low water.

Current river conditions present additional challenges. Water levels are low, causing slower currents that can significantly increase travel times for paddlers in canoes and kayaks.

The Broad Riverkeeper, part of the nonprofit MountainTrue, recommends visitors:

• Do not tube on the Broad River Paddle Trail.

• Always wear a properly fitted personal flotation device.

• Approach fallen trees and other obstacles slowly and cautiously.

• Be prepared to assist fellow paddlers if they encounter trouble.

• Plan for longer trips due to low water levels during drought conditions.

Officials emphasize that even experienced paddlers should remain vigilant, as river conditions can change quickly and hazards may exist around bends or beneath the water's surface.