Nantahala Outdoor Center

Closest whitewater rafting to Asheville. NOC offers 3 experience levels within an hour's drive from downtown Asheville.

French Broad River: Conveniently located 25 miles north of Asheville, the free flowing French Broad River offers playtime and beautiful views as it winds through the mountains of the Pisgah National Forest. On this guide - assisted trip durinf spring's higher water flows, there is generally a guide in every other raft, allowing those looking for more challenge the chance to captain their own boat. During summer and fall when the water flows are usually more moderate, we run "duck" trips in one person inflatable kayaks, thus providing you the best quality trip, as well as challenging fun for adults and kids alike! At least one guided raft accompanies all "duck" trips.Three trip types are available: Half day without lunch (4.5 Miles), Half day with lunch (4.5 Miles deli-style, riverside lunch provided), Full Day with lunch (8 Miles deli-style,riverside lunch provided). Minimum age: 8 years old.

Pigeon River: Located 57 miles from downtown Asheville is the thrilling Pigeon River. The skill level for the Pigeon River is just above the skill level for the French Broad River. The Pigeon River offers a thrilling Class III and IV experience. This River provides a very fast and fun whitewater experience; trips are limited to the release schedule of the Dam; usually every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday of the summer months. Call NOC Reservations to confirm release schedule. One trip type is available: Half Day without lunch (4.5 Miles). Minimum age: 8 years old.

Nolichucky River: Located just 47 miles from downtown Asheville is the beautiful Nolichucky River! The "Noli" boast steep, technical rapids while traversing one of the deepest canyons in the East. On this scenic 8-mile adventure through the Pisgah and Cherokee National Forests, we'll pause for a riverside deli lunch and, at the day's end, step directly from the river to our wonderful sauna and hot showers. Spring's higher water ensures a thrilling trip with a guide in every raft. During summer's moderate to lower water levels, we run "duck" trips in inflatable one-person kayaks to provide the best quality trip and an exhilarating challenge. At least one guided raft accompanies all "duck" trips. The Nolichucky is a strenuous trip available on in spring and summer. One trip type is available: Full Day with deli-style, riverside lunch (8 Miles). Minimum age: 13 years old.

We also offer rustic cabins overlooking the Nantahala River with full kitchens, housekeeping services; 2-10 BR units available.

Our newest adventure the Nantahala Outdoor Center Adventure Park allows you to soar over 550' through the air on the Wesser Zip, the Nantahala Gorge's most fun zip line, and take on a multi-level rope challenge as high as 60' above the forest floor. Raft and Zip Combo also available.