Little Conemaugh River, South Fork

Beaverdale to South Fork                               7.3 miles

Class           Grad                    Size (Area/Volume)                  Scene/Poll             Level

    III           58/100                    Small (64/107)                         C/C                           
                                                          South Fork                                            Streamside

Topographic Maps: Beaverdale, Geistown

County Maps: Cambria

Description: The South Fork has been run from Lloydell, where size and gradient are extreme; however, even the most adventurous canoeists will prefer to start at Beaverdale for 2 small, steep miles to Sidman. Below Sidman the stream enters the limits of the old South Fork Dam of Johnstown Flood fame. The pace through here is enjoyable. Below US Route 219 is a minor canyon with small ledges and playing waves. [Reported 1981]

Difficulties: Trees above Sidman. Boat-swamping waves below US Route 219.

Shuttle: State Route 869 parallels the stream.

Gauges: None. Check level at put-in, South Fork Dam site, and take-out.

Normal Wet Period: No available statistics on seasons. Since this section is small, it should normally be runnable approximately January through April.