This exciting trip features Class I-II rapids, many shoals, and wide river channels. While rapids are not Class III, they can become more technical in very high and very low waters.

Erwin Mill Road is a 10-15 minute drive from Holliday Dam Road; shuttling cars could take half an hour. The Holliday Dam River Access is downstream of the Holliday Dam (no portage is available). It is located southwest of the Hydroelectric facility, which should be avoided.  A 250-foot long trail leads from the road to a beach on the left side of the island separating the hydroelectric station fromthe Saluda River. Once on the river, paddlers will immediately encounter some exciting Class II rapids and shoals. There are exciting Class I-II rapids and shoals throughout this trip.

Erwin Mill Road is the second road crossing. Paddlers should stay to the left of the island when approaching Erwin Mill Road and take out downstream of the bridge, river-left. Limited roadside parking is available along Erwin Mill Road, south/downstream of the bridge river left. River access is limited to the road right-of-way beside the bridge only. Do not use the path through the woods, it is private property. The path to the river is brushy and has some riprap. For more information see The Upper Saluda River Blueway map.