Whitewater Rafting
From Scenic Floats to Class I-III Rapids
The Nantahala River, named “Best Paddling River,” by Blue Ridge Outdoors, is a classic family-friendly whitewater rafting experience on an iconic mountain river, perfect for families and paddlers of any skill level. Local river outfitters offer river trips that are self-guided, fully guided, and guide assisted. Rafting options include rafts, sit-on-top kayaks, canoes, and funyaks/duckies.
If you're new to whitewater rafting, then the Nantahala River is a great place to begin. It is best known for entry level whitewater and one of the most rafted streams in the country.The majority of the run is class two whitewater, with Nantahala Falls - at the end of the run - a class three rapid.Take the plunge and experience the adrenaline rush only rafting can bring!
The U.S. Forest Service requires that children be at least 7 years of age OR weigh at least 60 pounds in order to raft the Nantahala River.
Experienced boaters can find Class III+ continuous fun on the Upper Nantahala and Cascades during eight annual release days This upper stretch of the Nantahala River stretches past the commercial put-in, for Class III+ continuous fun on the Upper Section. Upper Cascades scheduled releases are brought to you by American Whitewater. Their work is to protect and restore rivers across the country, especially in the Southeast.
