I'm going to document this while it's fresh in my mind as this is an option for Class II/III boaters at CreekWeek when the water is high.
It's a very remote, pretty canyon of rhodo and hemlock. Many waterfalls dropping into it.
The rapids aren't overly technical (think Nanty in a 20' wide channel) but there are many strainers/sweepers in play the whole day. There are also some usual plateau under cut spots (but none came into play for our group). It starts with minor flat water paddle then once the rapids begin, it's pretty continuous until you hit the Emory River. The Emory is swift flatwater to take out.
we ran it in about 4 hours with booat scouting, a few minor swims, and one bank scout. water level was about 1.2' on gauge at put in.
Personally, I'd recommend having 1 stronger paddler in front to boat scout lines to avoid strainers and 1 stronger paddler running sweep to try to help if there is a strainer issue. It's a small creek so groups around 5 would be best.
There is 1 technical rapid about mid way. there is a small pool above it and larger horizon line than usual. it was a bit of a pain but we foot scouted from river left (where there is good place to set safety). the sneak is between the bank and exposed rock on river right (a 3' drop and run out without much water going over it).
Put in: at exit 340 on I-40, go north on TN299 (only direction it goes). drive 5.0 miles (just past gas station with red roof on right) and turn left on WMA Road. Follow this road to an obviously improved put in (small gravel lot and ramp).
Oakdale Take out on Emory River: from put in listed above, take left (north) on TN299 to Oakdale, TN. Cross the bridge over Emory River and take left on Camp Austin Rd. Go down the hill to parking lot in the city park. Plan on 45 minutes to set shuttle. Important for paddlers coming to take out. As you approach the bridge, you will have to paddle through the trees to go under the rail road tracks. be watchful as you can easily float past it. paved path to carry boat to parking lot.
One thing we missed out on... 100 yards upstream as you enter the Emory River is a giant surf wave (you'll see it). If you have the energy left, apparently it's worth it to work upstream to get on it.
