Nantahala Rafting Center
Nantahala River
The Nantahala River, located in Nantahala National Forest, is one of America's favorite whitewater playgrounds. Its ideal location at the edge of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, just a short distance from Cherokee and Bryson City, NC, makes the Nantahala River convenient to mountain vacationers.
Eight miles of clear water, constant waves and swift currents make the Nantahala River a delight for all ages and groups interested in an exhilarating introduction to whitewater rafting. The trip takes over 3 hours and contains numerous class I and II rapids, with a class III at the end. On our rafting trips, there is a lead guide, a sweep guide, and typically a guide in about every other raft. Since the Nantahala River is a dam-controlled river, one can expect good water flows at all times of the year.
Follow-A-Guide & Guided Trips
Minimum age 7 or minimum weight 60 lbs.
Follow-A-Guide trips down the Nantahala's 8 miles of magnificent scenery provides an exhilarating introduction to whitewater rafting. Families, groups and individuals will enjoy this 3-4 hour trip. Perfect for first-timers of all ages. Fully Guided option available.
Raft and Inflatable Kayak Rentals
Minimum age 7 or minimum weight 60 lbs.
Many groups and individuals prefer the flexibility and excitement of guiding their own rafts or inflatable kayaks and traveling down the river on their own. If you have rafted before and feel comfortable with your skills, this may be just what you are looking for.
Raft & Rail
Minimum age 7 or minimum weight 60 lbs.
A unique family adventure found in the heart of the Smokies. Take a 2-hour rail excursion on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad up the Nantahala River, meet your guides and raft back down the river. Wildwater will meet you at the take-out and return you to our Rafting Center where dry clothes, hot showers, and a hearty lunch await. Transportation back to the train depot in Bryson City is provided.
Wildwater Jeep® Adventures
Minimum weight 40 lbs.
Join our skilled and knowledgeable local guides by following in the steps of the early explorers, visiting the back roads of the region and learning more about this beautiful region directly from North Carolina natives.
Rails & Trails
Minimum weight 40 lbs.
Start the day out with the scenic 22 miles along the foothills fo the Smokies and up the Nantahala River Gorge. At the top-of-the-line, disembark from the train and climb aboard our customized Jeep® for a personal exploration.
