Overview:
Strait Creek joins the South Branch of the Potomac River in Forks of Water, located in northern Highland County, after draining a small, scenic watershed north of Monterey. Because Strait Creek is small and pebbly, it rarely has enough water to run. However, after a good rain in the spring one can run the few miles from Route 635 or Route 634 to its confluence with the South Branch for a pretty afternoon run. Since it is located in Highland County, Strait Creek is very pretty and has excellent water quality. It also has a couple fences across it.
Recommended Trip:
Route 635 to Forks of Water: This two mile trip only takes about an hour, but is a nice complement to the nearby South Branch from Blue Grass to West Virginia. If there’s enough water it would be worth an attempt to put in on Route 634 or Route 220 higher upstream.
Directions to Put Ins and Take Outs:
View South Branch of Potomac, Strait Creek in a larger map
Route 635: After asking permission from the residents of the trailer/house located next to the Route 635 bridge, put in on river left and park on the gravel at the side of the road. This bridge is visible from Route 220. Other put ins upstream are also near Route 220.
Forks of Water: Park in VDOT right of way along Route 625 next to Route 220, and be discreet. Much of the land around this intersection is posted.
Section of River to Run:
From Route 635 to its confluence with the South Branch Strait Creek passes over many gravel bars, with good views of farms and mountains along the way.The creek passes under Route 220 halfway through.Be alert for fences.
