ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WLOS) — Scorching heat and ongoing drought conditions across western North Carolina have taken a toll on water levels in mountain creeks and rivers. As locals and visitors head outdoors for the Fourth of July weekend, one outdoor recreation group has some advice for anyone planning to get into the water.
Although drought conditions have improved in recent months, data released by the U.S. Drought Monitor Thursday, July 2, show that much of the area remains in moderate to extreme drought.
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The effects of the drought and current heat wave can be seen in water monitoring from the U.S. Geological Survey, which, as of July 2, reports the gage height (water height) of the French Broad River in Asheville as “extremely below.” The same is true for multiple locations along the Pigeon River in Haywood County and the Davidson River near Brevard.
JULY 1, 2026 – People recreating on the North Toe River in Mitchell County on July 1, 2026, with NC Outdoor Adventures. (Photos courtesy: NC Outdoor Adventures)
NC Outdoor Adventures, an outdoor guide service based in Bakersville, said it is also seeing low water levels and sweltering heat on the North Toe River, creating conditions that visitors may not have expected.
NC Outdoor Adventures said anyone planning to visit the North Toe River should expect to find a few shallow areas where they will have to step out and walk to deeper water. Staff also said heat will be an issue for anyone outdoors and advised visitors to book their excursions as early in the day as possible.
“Because of Hurricane Helene, many of the large trees that once shaded the riverbanks are gone,” staff members said in a social media post Wednesday. “During the hottest part of the day, there are long stretches with zero shade, and the water has warmed dramatically.”
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Other advice included wearing sunscreen, a hat and lightweight clothing — and bringing plenty of drinking water to stay hydrated.
JULY 1, 2026 – People recreating on the North Toe River in Mitchell County on July 1, 2026, with NC Outdoor Adventures. (Photos courtesy: NC Outdoor Adventures)
Despite the challenges, NC Outdoor Adventures said it remains open and offers a variety of outdoor experiences that do not depend on water levels, including swim hole tours and waterfall rappelling.
Resources
If you plan to get in the water over the Fourth of July weekend, here are some resources to check water levels and quality: