Outdoor & fun
Nantahala River
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The Nantahala River is a premier destination for whitewater rafting and kayaking, offering a 8-mile stretch of rapids ranging from Class II to III. Surrounded by the Nantahala National Forest, the river's cool, clear waters also attract fly fishermen targeting rainbow and brown trout. Visitors can launch from the Nantahala Outdoor Center or enjoy riverside trails and picnic spots. The river's reliable flow, fed by a dam, ensures consistent conditions for paddling from spring through fall.
Don't miss
- Run the Nantahala Falls, a Class III rapid near the river's end
- Fish for trout in the delayed-harvest section below the dam
- Hike the nearby Appalachian Trail segment along the river gorge
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Nantahala River
You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.
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