A Complete Review Of White Water Rafting At The Nantahala Outdoor Center

Please note that this post is part of a paid collaboration with the Nantahala Outdoor Center. The partnership started when I reached out to them because I love their services so much!

I’ve been drawn to water ever since I was a kid, and some of my earliest memories feature the view from floating around on my back and memorizing the pipes in the ceiling in my diaper dippers class. As I grew up, that translated to me joining the swim team, hitting the public pool as often as I could as a teen, and now to plunging into that cold mountain water as frequently as possible. I am lucky to live in North Carolina, and although many folks just view this as a beach or mountain state, I hold it in my heart as a watery adventure state. From clear blue pools and powerful waterfalls to the chance to fly down white water rapids, I’m hooked.

Alongside our many ways to enjoy the water here exist many companies that want to help you do just that. My partner and I have taken trips with a few different companies but keep coming back to the Nantahala Outdoor Center. We’re drawn to their beautiful outdoor spaces, friendly staff, can-do attitude, diverse activity options, and affordable prices.

About The Nantahala Outdoor Center

There is a special crowd that is drawn to the Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC). You have a delightful mix of out-of-town tourists who came specifically to catch some white water, free-bird guides, crunchy hikers from the Appalachain Trail (the AT runs right through the NOC), and supportive family members of adventurers that just came to relax and soak in the atmosphere.

The NOC has been a leader in the outdoor adventure space since 1972. To my benefit, inflatable kayaks (also known as ‘ducks’) were brought to the NOC in 1983. They get over a million guest a year and have an exciting collection of over 120 different river and land-based itineraries. Some of those include rafting, kayaking, zip lining, mountain biking, tubing, and more. They also offer training plans and courses, as well as group activities for businesses, families, or other large groups. Their expansive outdoor property is home to a restaurant, bar, retail space, fire pit and longe area, and more.

Our White Water Adventure

On my first trip to the NOC in 2021 I took on the famous 8 mile white water stretch on the Nantahala river in my own single ducky, while my partner went on his own kayak. Because of the NOC’s flexibility we were able to pay for the ducky rental for me and two spots on the bus, even though he didn’t rent one of their boats. Fast forward to this year and we decided to share a double ducky, which requires flexibility, the ability to laugh, and good communication between those in the boat.

What Is A “Ducky”?

If you’re new to the white water lingo, you may be confused as to what a “ducky” is. Basically, it is a blown-up raft that allows you to sit on the floor with one or two rafters. Ducks are great for beginners as they are harder to flip than kayaks and canoes. We’ve met many people on the river going through class 3 rapids for the first time in ducks who feel quite safe and secure due to the stability of the ducks. For those who have 2 or more guests, larger raft options are available. 

The White Water Preparation Process

When you first arrive to the Nantahala Outdoor Center it’s best to check in, use the restroom, get geared up, and then relax until it’s time to hit the river. The center has a beautiful waterfront are where you can kick back in chairs and watch kayakers and rafters pass through. When it gets close to your adventure time, an NOC employee rounds everyone up to go over safety features and instructions. They then let you choose from different types of wetsuits and gear and make sure that everything is properly fitted. After that, it’s a 8 mile bus ride up river!

After getting dropped off in the parking lot, you’ll see that rafts are waiting and ready to go. If you chose to go on a self-guided trip like I did, you’re then on your own. I can always feel the excitement building as we carry our ducky down to the powerful river and ease in, leaving solid ground in the rearview mirror.

Who Is The River Run Suitable For?

The run that I like to do at the NOC is great for beginner and intermediate rafters, families, and nature lovers in general due to its diverse water features. I’ve even seen really experienced kayakers running this course, playing in different rapids and practicing new moves. There is a nice push and pull on the track of exciting white water stretches and then calm, serene areas where you can give your muscles a break and sit back and coast.

Expect Class 2 And 3 Rapids On This Run

To go into more detail, there are two memorable class 2 rapids on the run and one class 3 rapid at the end. You have the option of opting out of the class 3 rapid at the end, and there’s a pull-out where you can get out of your raft and see what it’s all about before taking the plunge. I’ve ran the class 3 rapid two times now and made it down easily each time! It is a medium-sized drop that is just big enough to give you a thrill (and if you’re like me, you’ll probably let out a happy scream!) before pushing you back to calm waters. The rapid, called Nantahala Falls, is hard to butcher if you are going down in a raft or ducky as an adult. It’s more challenging for those in kayaks, and solo kids in ducks seem to take a lot of spills here. There always a lot of people waiting here and watching, so if anything went wrong, help would soon be on the way!

Food Options At The Nantahala Outdoor Center

After we got off of the river we went over to the River’s End restaurant, that is on the property, to check out the vegan options. To my surprise, there were some solid plant-based meals that were really delicious on the menu!

Vegan-Friendly Food Options

If you’re looking for something satisfying and delicious, my partner and I tried the veggie burger without cheese (it is not on the menu, so tell them that you are vegan or ask for it), fries, cauliflower bites, Sherpa rice and veggie dish with tofu and drinks, and would happily eat this meal again. For those wanting to dine at the restaurant, the lettuce wraps and portobello burger are other meal options that can be made 100% vegan-friendly, and you can sub tofu for animal flesh with any option on the menu. The food was well flavored and River’s End provides an epic river-side view.

Forever A Fan Of The Nantahala Outdoor Center

Although I don’t live too far from the NOC, I can see why others flock from all around the country to experience its outdoor amenities, activities, and white water adventures. The NOC is great for families, couples, solo wanderers and adventure-viewers alike. If you’re ever in North Carolina and looking for me on a hot day, you can probably catch me on the Nantahala River, with a huge smile on my face, riding the rapids!