In the last few weeks I paddled this trip twice, but instead of taking out at Gardendale continuing on to stop at the Saluda Riverwalk, both times with gauge height ~3.7-4 ft. Really good paddle; calm part of the river with no obstacles. Great trip, finished in just under 3 hours each time.

Great section of river to explore. The flow was very light around 850 I believe. Saluda Shoals park is really great. Once you pay $5 to enter the park, they will instruct you to drive to upper boat launch area. You can either rent a kayak or inner tube. We brought our own kayak and SUP. They offered to have me drive my car to the lower boat launch area after I downloaded all of my gear. This actually worked out great. This shuttle service cost me $5. Once we arrived by boat at the lower boat ramp, we just loaded our gear and drove away. Along the river there are a few easy class 2 rapids. I quickly realized my SUP was ill suited for this since my rear fin was sticking down too far. I carried my board over the rocks. I think next time I will just kayak. My Wife really enjoyed it. Water is clear and cold. Probably in the 60's. Enjoy!

great little trip, water was really cold