How do I access Highway 51?

Highway 51 is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Highway 51?

Highway 51 supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Highway 51?

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

When is the best time to visit Highway 51?

The best time to paddle at Highway 51 is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Highway 51?

Water conditions at Highway 51 include mild current.

Is Highway 51 good for beginners?

Yes, Highway 51 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.

Photo by Barbara Burgess on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Highway 51

Mercer, TN · Boat Ramp · Public

Highway 51 is a public boat ramp on Hatchie River near Mercer, Tennessee. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. 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

Launch into Hatchie River near Mercer, Tennessee. Beginner level with mild current water.

Highway 51 is a public launch site on Hatchie River in Tennessee, serving as a popular put-in for paddlers exploring this section of the river.

Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. Canoeists can enjoy the calmer sections for a relaxed paddle. The Southeast's warm climate and diverse waterways support paddling across most of the year.

Expect mild current conditions on the water. The best time to visit is March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Highway 51 sits about 5 min from Mercer, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

Paddling Tips

•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.
•Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Highway 51?: Highway 51 is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Highway 51?: Highway 51 supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Highway 51?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Highway 51?: The best time to paddle at Highway 51 is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Highway 51?: Water conditions at Highway 51 include mild current.
Is Highway 51 good for beginners?: Yes, Highway 51 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: 35.4376, -89.0793