Running the Warrior section of Locust Fork in northern Alabama offers paddlers a rewarding blend of technical whitewater challenges and scenic river landscapes over a compact 5.6-mile stretch. This run is a favorite among locals and visiting enthusiasts alike, delivering steady Class II+ rapids that build to Class III features as water levels rise, all under the watchful presence of rugged rock walls and wooded riverbanks. Launching from the north side of the US 231/79 bridge near Blountsville, the current immediately nudges you into rhythm with the river’s pulse, inviting you to navigate a series of warm-up shoals before testing your skills on named rapids like House Rock and Tilt-a-Whirl. Each rapid has its personality—the undercut House Rock demands a careful ferry to the right, while Tilt-a-Whirl mixes boulder fields with playful wave trains.

As the Warrior section unfolds, the river widens creatively, presenting obstacles like the S-Turn/Tree Rapid where subtle navigation through scattered trees and rocky turns keeps paddlers alert. Approaching Double Trouble, scouting is essential. The distinctive undercut ledge and complex currents require precision and respect; a misread here leads quickly to challenging swims, so avoid the sieve on river right by swimming to river left if needed. Beyond these technical patches, Bullard Shoals tests your control with rocky shallows that can swell into impressive waves when flows reach 3 feet or higher. Just below Swann Bridge, the river relaxes slightly before Powell Falls, the highlight rapid that demands careful line choice and strong bracing to avoid the flipping holes that claim unaware paddlers and their gear.

The take out at the County 160 bridge offers a short but steep scramble uphill, so be prepared for a quick hike and limited parking space. Alternatively, paddlers can choose Swann Bridge as a takeout to shorten the trip and avoid the tougher hill climb. The river’s flow gauge near Cleveland, AL, shows optimal runnable conditions between 2.2 to 3.5 feet; below that, the run gets technical with shallow rocks, and above 5 feet, the waves push hard but remain manageable with experience.

Camping options are varied nearby, ranging from rustic cabins and primitive campsites at Boogie Bottoms four miles from the takeout, to more developed parks featuring RV hookups like Rickwood Caverns or Smith Lake Park. Whether you’re launching on a brisk spring weekend or enjoying a late summer paddle, the Locust Fork Warrior run balances adventure with approachable whitewater, framed by Alabama’s lush woodlands and steady currents that dare you forward. Proper footwear, reliable hydration, and scouting key rapids will enhance your experience, ensuring both safety and excitement amid every rapid and calm pool.