Nantahala River Gorge

America's Whitewater Playground. Explore whitewater rafting, zipline, gem…

America's Whitewater Playground. Explore whitewater rafting, zipline, gem mining, fishing, picnicking, hiking, and scenic drives.

Nantahala Gorge

Fun for all Ages and Activity Levels!

There are exciting activities for all ages and experience levels here in Nantahala Gorge. Active to easygoing adventures include: whitewater rafting and kayaking, zip lining, hiking, biking, fly fishing, horseback riding, jeep tours, gem mining, picnicking, waterfalls, and riverside trail walks. Watching paddlers play on the river is highlight for many visitors - from the freestyle wave at the Nantahala River takeout - site of the 2013 World Freestyle Championships - to the many picnic areas and pullouts along the scenic Nantahala Gorge. The Great Smoky Mountain Railroad travels up the Nantahala Gorge from Bryson City, and rafting and train trip combo packages are an outstanding way to both experience and see the wonders of the Nantahala Gorge.

What is a child's age and weight limit for Nantahala River rafting?

All participants must be at least 7 years old OR weigh at least 60 lbs. No prior experience necessary.

Is the Nantahala River and National Forest pet-friendly?

The Nantahala National Forest is a pet-friendly public area. Dogs are allowed to join their owners at the pet-friendly Nantahala Outdoor Center in Bryson City, however outfitters in the Nantahala Gorge do not permit pets on the shuttle or on their equipment including rafts

What does the word "Nantahala" mean?

"Nantahala" is a Cherokee word which means "Land of the Noonday Sun." The area fits its name because in a few spots, the sun's rays only reaches the floors of the Nantahala National Forest when it is directly overhead during the middle of the day.

Events in the Nantahala Gorge

Summer Music Series May 22

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. May 22nd 5-8pm Shane Meade Duo May 23rd 1-4pm Mike Hollon May 23rd 5-8pm Log Noggins May 24th…

Music Bingo at Big Wesser Jun 04

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…

Riverside Artisan Market Jun 13

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…

Wilderness First Responder Training Jun 20

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…

July 4th Weekend at NOC Jul 03

Celebrate July 4th Weekend at NOC! Ring in Independence Day at the Nantahala Outdoor Center! Enjoy a weekend of live music, a special July Fourth Artisan Market, and food & drink from River’s End Restaurant, Big Wesser, and Slow Joe’s Donut Bus. Beat the heat with adventure…

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More Things To Do

Waterfalls

Waterfalls are one of the most rewarding outdoor experiences near Bryson City, with…

Tubing

Ready to cool down? Grab a tube and enjoy a float through the Great Smoky Mountains…

Biking

Mountain biking continues to grow in popularity, and Bryson City is no stranger to…

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…

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…