Experience the Nantahala River with a family-owned outfitter delivering unforgettable whitewater adventures in Western North Carolina for nearly 40 years. Enjoy fun, scenic trips through the heart of the Nantahala National Forest.
This is a Class II–III, family-friendly river known for its crystal-clear mountain water, lush forest views, and exciting rapids. The Nantahala is dam-controlled with scheduled daily releases from Nantahala Lake, and because the water is pulled from deep below the surface, it stays cool year-round—perfect for a refreshing mountain adventure.
Whether you’re brand new to rafting or have been down the river before, there are options for your skill level. Looking for something different? If you’ve already rafted the Nantahala, try a duckie (inflatable kayak) for a more hands-on ride.
Along the way, tackle 20+ named rapids—including favorites like Patton’s Run, Whirlpool, and The Bump—with calmer stretches in between to soak up the beauty of the river and the surrounding Great Smoky Mountains region.
