Black Fork Mohican River
About
From the headwaters through Richland and Ashland counties, the Black Fork Mohican River runs 36 miles to its confluence at Loudonville, averaging 427 CFS with an optimal range of 150–800. Charles Mill Reservoir interrupts the flow midway, creating distinct upper and lower sections. Above the reservoir, flatwater paddling dominates through agricultural countryside. Below Charles Mill Dam to Mifflin, the river picks up pace with Class I–II riffles as it cuts toward the main Mohican confluence. The final stretch from Mifflin to Loudonville mellows back to Class I water but gains character as it carves through a sandstone corridor. USGS gauge 03131500 tracks the flows that determine whether the riffles below the dam will have enough punch to be interesting or too much to be safe for novice paddlers.
River conditions are community-verified. CFS ranges, difficulty ratings, and access points may not reflect every flow level or seasonal change. Always check current conditions, scout unfamiliar rapids, and paddle within your skill level.