How do I access Highway 19 Bridge?

Highway 19 Bridge is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Highway 19 Bridge?

Highway 19 Bridge supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Highway 19 Bridge?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, ada accessible, lighting. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Highway 19 Bridge?

The best time to paddle at Highway 19 Bridge is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Highway 19 Bridge?

Water conditions at Highway 19 Bridge include mild current.

Is Highway 19 Bridge good for beginners?

Yes, Highway 19 Bridge is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

Kayakers paddling through a cypress-lined Southern waterway with Spanish moss

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParkingADA AccessibleLighting

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Highway 19 Bridge

Elizabethton, TN · Boat Ramp · Public

Highway 19 Bridge is a public boat ramp on Watauga River near Elizabethton, Tennessee. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, ada accessible. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

River

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Fee

Free

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

About This Location

River access at Highway 19 Bridge near Elizabethton, Tennessee. Good for kayaking and canoeing.

Highway 19 Bridge offers access to Watauga River in Tennessee. This stretch of river draws paddlers looking for mild current conditions.

This is a solid spot for kayaking, with enough room to settle into a comfortable paddling rhythm. Canoeing works well here, especially for those looking for a peaceful day on the water.

Water conditions are generally mild current. March through November is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and ada accessible and lighting.

Getting here from Elizabethton takes about 5 min, putting Highway 19 Bridge within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

Paddling Tips

•Know where your take-out is and how long the run takes before launching.
•Scout downstream from the launch before committing to your paddle.
•Always face upstream when entering or exiting your boat at the ramp.
•River levels change with rainfall — check the USGS gauge before you go.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Highway 19 Bridge?: Highway 19 Bridge is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Highway 19 Bridge?: Highway 19 Bridge supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Highway 19 Bridge?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, ada accessible, lighting. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Highway 19 Bridge?: The best time to paddle at Highway 19 Bridge is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Highway 19 Bridge?: Water conditions at Highway 19 Bridge include mild current.
Is Highway 19 Bridge good for beginners?: Yes, Highway 19 Bridge is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 36.3565, -82.2234