Nantahala Gorge Excursions depart west from Bryson City, first following Alarka Creek and Fontana Lake. The Fontana Trestle then takes you across the serene Fontana Lake and into the beautiful Nantahala Gorge. Onboard dining is available in First Class by selecting from the First…
Join us at NOC this season for unforgettable live music every weekend! Enjoy local bands playing rock, jazz, bluegrass, and more, with the beautiful Nantahala River as your backdrop. August 1st 1-4pm Mike Hollon August 1st 5-8pm Beer and Loathing August 2nd 2-5pm Blues with Blue…
Come enjoy Music Bingo by the river at NOC every Thursday starting on June 4th. Instead of numbers, your bingo card is on your phone and is filled with songs. As your host plays clips, just listen, tap, and mark your card. Each 2-hour event features 4 chances to win with multiple…
This entry-level course is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and newcomers to the outdoor industry. The 16 hours of instruction cover patient assessment and how to provide basic care for sick or injured patients. Students will participate in hands-on scenarios in addition to…
Riverside Artisan Market at NOC Join us monthly on the banks of the Nantahala River for our Riverside Artisan Market—a vibrant showcase of local goods, crafts, and art. Whether you're gearing up for an adventure or winding down after a day on the water, come explore unique…
SOLO Southeast’s Wilderness First Responder is a 9-day comprehensive course that teaches students to assess and treat injuries and illnesses in the wild. This course also covers the standards of backcountry and front country medicine. The Wilderness First Responder (WFR) is the…
Join paddlers and the community to enjoy the Upper Nantahala and Cascade water releases! On campus, we’ll be hosting our popular used boat sales at multiple locations along with live music, artisan vendors, and local food and beverages.
Join us Saturday, October 10, 2026, for Live from the Gorge, a concert event presented by our sponsor Explore Bryson City, New Belgium, and Teva. Get ready for a fun night in the Nantahala Gorge with Musical Guests The Hillclimbers at 5:00 PM and Amanda Platt and the Honey…
NOC’s longest running event, Guest Appreciation Festival celebrates the end of adventure season with sales on used boats, gear, and apparel, paddling events, live music, food, drinks, games and more. Shop from the Used Gear marketplace and Artisan market.
Hiking & Trails
With the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Nantahala National Forest…
Waterfalls
Waterfalls are one of the most rewarding outdoor experiences near Bryson City, with…
Elk Viewing
Observe the elk in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on grasses and fords in…
Tubing
Ready to cool down? Grab a tube and enjoy a float through the Great Smoky Mountains…
Whitewater Rafting
Here in Bryson City, we’re fortunate to be conveniently located near four…
Lake Kayaking & SUP
Rent a craft, pack your own or take a guided tour and explore the serenity of Fontana…
Biking
Mountain biking continues to grow in popularity, and Bryson City is no stranger to…
Motorcycling
Explore the open roads of Bryson City and the Great Smoky Mountains with views for…
Boating
Fontana Lake, the crown jewel of Bryson City, is your perfect under-the-radar…
Fishing
Bryson City and the Great Smoky Mountain National Forests are some of the most…
Gem Mining
A perfect activity for all ages, our gem mining spots provide you with the best tools…
Horseback Riding
Whether traversing around Fontana Lake or exploring the trails of Deep Creek, channel…
Ziplining
Channel your inner Tarzan and explore the beauty of our national parks and forests by…
Swimming
Get refreshed with a swim in the Smokies! This seasonal activity is just the cool…
