The New River is said to be the second oldest river in the world actually pre-dating the Appalachian Mountains. The New River starts as two rivers in mountains of northwest North Carolina – the South Fork and the North Fork – before they join in Ashe county. The New then flows north into Virginia and West Virginia where it merges with the Gauley River and eventually into the Ohio River.
The South Fork of the New River is a designated National Scenic and Wild River and it belongs to the New River Paddle Trail which starts in Todd. The Todd Island Park is part of the Mountain Heritage Trout Waters program. The program stocks trout at the park several times a year. Learn more about this program and fishing regulations here or at the NC Wildlife Resources Commission.
Todd’s position directly on the South Fork of the New River is an important part of its past and present. The even grade along the river made for an excellent railroad route and has become a well-known bike and running route today. Residents and visitors can enjoy its natural beauty as the river slowly flows by farms, meadows and woodlands providing animal and fish habitats. Paddlers, tubers and fishermen and women enjoy the outdoor recreation that the river provides.