The Nantahala is a "family" river that's
also a training site for Olympic kayakers

Located about a dozen miles west of Bryson City on US 19/74, the scenic Nantahala River ranks among the most popular whitewater rafting rivers in the country. Without a doubt, it is the most popular in the Southeast luring more than 200,000 paddlers to its waters every year. A perfect combination of frisky whitewater and placid pools, the Nantahala is a great introduction to the exciting sport of whitewater paddling.

The Nantahala River, with Class II and III rapids, is considered a “family” river suitable for senior citizens and children — providing the kids are at least 7 years old or weight at least 60 pounds.

But, don’t get the wrong idea. Just because the river is suitable for families doesn’t mean it’s not exciting. Just ask someone who has made the climactic Class III plunge through Nantahala Falls at the end of the eight-mile course. It's also challenging enough for the US Olympic Kayaking Team, which often trains on the Nantahala.

There are a number of outfitters along or near the river where trips can be schedule. A variety of trips are offered and each company seems to add its own personal touch. All outfitters provide approved life jackets and require rafters to attend a safety presentation before they are allowed on the river.

In the mood for something more sedate? Try the Tuckaseigee River. With its Class I and II rapids, Tuckaseigee rafting trips provide great outdoor entertainment for the entire family. You can run the “Tuck” from right in downtown Bryson City.

For a guide to water activities in Swain County, click here for a downloadable PDF.

Endless River Adventures
PO Box 246, 14157 Hwy 19 W Bryson City, NC 28713 828-488-6199 or 800-224-RAFT Fax: 828-488-2259
Offers whitewater rafting on the Nantahala and Ocoee Rivers. Ocoee rafting package includes transportation from our Nantahala Outpost, saving you the extra driving. Kayak instruction from the beginner to advanced level and kayak/mountain trips to Costa Rica and Ecuador. Lake touring offered for half-and full-day trips. Also, fly fishing instruction & guide service with drift boat option. Silver level sponsor of Freedom Fest 2009!

Carolina Outfitters Rafting Company
12121 Hwy 19 W, Bryson City, NC 28713 828-488-6345 or 800-GOT-RAFT
Offers Guide-in-Boat, Guide Assisted, or Non-Guided whitewater rafting trips on the popular and scenic Nantahala River. Inflatable Funyak/Ducky rentals. Excellent equipment, friendly staff, and comfortable facilities. Great low prices and group rates available. Combine our rafting with gemstone mining, horseback riding, and scenic train tours. Fully furnished vacation rentals available. Convenient to all area attractions.

Appalachian Rivers Raft Co., Inc.
1365 Hwy. 19 West, Topton, NC 800-330-1999 or 838-321-3815 Contact: John Griffin
Appalachian Rivers Raft Company has, since 1979, offered exciting and enjoyable whitewater activities for families and groups. We feature excellent equipment and a courteous, professional staff as well as very reasonable rates. We invite you to come and enjoy the river in one of our self-bailing rafts or funyaks. For the inexperienced, we offer guide-assisted or fully guided trips. The more adventurous may enjoy renting a raft. Contact us soon and join the fun!!

Paddle Inn Rafting Company
14611 Highway 19 West, Bryson City, NC 28713 828-488-9651 or 800-711-RAFT Fax: 877-265-7253 Contact: Mark Thomas
We offer "Guided," "Guide Assisted," and "Be Your Own Boss" (Rentals.) We have Funyaks (single and double), Pumas, Self Bailers and regular rafts. Come and enjoy our riverfront cabins, RV sites and group tenting areas. We are here to share our passion for the river with you and we take pride in our customer service excellence. At our business, you are our number one concern. 15 miles from Bryson City, Open April-Nov. Also open by advance reservation Nov. - April.

Adventurous Fast Rivers Rafting
14690 Nantahala River, 19W, Bryson City, NC 28713 800-438-7238 or 828-488-2386 Fax: 828-4886481 Contact: Steven & Susan Matz
Experience the beauty and adventure of whitewater on the crystal-clear Nantahala River. We are family owned and located directly on the Nantahala River. Our specialty is giving economical prices with the very best in personal service, equipment, facilities, and staff while offering the most options. No experience necessary. Guided & unguided trips available March through October. Walk-ins are welcome or call now to reserve your next adventure. We look forward to seeing you on the river with us.

Blue Ridge Outing Company
PO Box 1636, Lake Junaluska, NC 28745 828-586-3510 or 800-572-3510
Trips are offered on the Tuckaseigee River, which provides Class I and II rapids. We are located on US Highway 74 between Bryson City and Sylva.

USA Raft Nantahala
11044 Hwy 19 W, Bryson City, NC 28713 828-586-3510 or 800-745-9356
Rush down Nantahala River Whitewater. Years of experience, great guides and quality equipment ensure you have a great time. We give you a money back guarantee. Self-bailing rafts and duckies are available. Camping on-site. Visit our website for details. Call to reserve.

Nantahala Outdoor Center
13077 Hwy 19 W, Bryson City, NC 28713 828-488-6900 or 800-232-7238 Fax: 828-488-0301
Named "One of the Best Outfitters on Earth" by National Geographic Adventure, NOC has led the rafting industry in professionalism, safety and service since 1972. Along with our ideal family rafting options on the Nantahala, our riverside campus features four distinct dining options, a variety of lodging, our world-class Paddling School, mountain/road bike rentals, fully-dedicated fishing guide service on the Nanty, Little Tennessee and Tuckaseigee Rivers, lake kayaking, our famous Outfitter's Store and more! Come see for yourself why NOC is a legend in the outdoors. Proud sponsor of June Music in the Mountains Evening Concert Series!

Rolling Thunder River Company
10160 Highway 19 West, Bryson City, NC 28713 828-488-2030 or 800-408-7238
For over 30 years Rolling Thunder has provided high quality, fun filled rafting experiences. Over 300,000 guests have chosen to raft with us over the years. Choose guided, follow- a- guide or non-guided/rental trip options. We use top of the line, well maintained equipment. Hot showers. Campground. Bunkhouse sleeps up to 65 people. Family owned and operated with a caring staff. The only experience you’ll need is ours!

Wildwater, LTD Rafting
10345 Hwy 19W, Bryson City, NC 28713 PO Box 190, Almond, NC 28702 800-451-9972 or 828-488-2384 Fax: 828-488-9130
Fully Guided, Guide Assisted, and Rental trips available. A family-owned business since 1971, Wildwater runs on the Nantahala, Ocoee, Big Pigeon, and Chattooga Rivers. Offering the Raft 'N Rail® since 1988, this excursion combines a scenic rail trip with rafting. Wildwater, the only outdoor provider who offers 100% quality service guarantee. Wildwater also offers unique lodging at Falling Waters Adventure Resort. Yurt cabins offer the experience of camping with the comforts of home.