In my experience mostly between Route 50 and Route 7, a reading of 1.5' or lower at the Millville, WV USGS gauge means the Shenandoah is quite low.  Above 3.0' the water will be pretty fast and making any headway against the current will be difficult.

Historically, the Shenandoah was used by early American Indians for fishing, and the fertile soil along the river's banks for agriculture. The remains of fishing weirs can still be seen just north of Route 7. The Shenandoah Valley was also a key supply area for the Confederates in the U.S. Civil War.

Wildlife is abundant along the river, and kayaking offers a unique vantage point for viewing them in their native habitat. Deer can be seen on most outings, sometimes darting across the river from an island to the mainland.  Duck, geese and herons are the most common of the larger birds, but this area is also known for its many species of migratory birds that make their way through in spring and fall. Turtles will generally keep their distance but are actually quite curious of you, and I've seen them following me underwater for quite a ways at times. Occasionally you may run into water snakes either swimming or more likely sunning on a rock. Most sightings are of the harmless Black Snake, but there are Copperheads and Rattlesnakes in this area too so it's best to leave them alone (they would rather leave you alone too).

The Shenandoah is one of the few north-flowing rivers in the United States. It flows into the Potomac at Harper's Ferry, WV.