Only Wildwater offers daily trips with discounts on zip & raft or kid zip packages! The America Outdoors Association (AOA) is an international trade association for adventure travel outfitters, outdoor educators, tour companies, and their suppliers. You can find more information at the Obed Visitor Center in Wartburg, TN or on the National Park Services page dedicated to, experiencing the wild and scenic Obed River, At the North Carolina entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park lies the Oconaluftee River or Luftee for short. 7. Click to find the answer. Train Rude into the Gorge was awesome. You may cancel your reservation in full or in part and receive a refund less a $14.00 fee per adult ticket and $6.00 fee per child ticket as late as 5 days before departure with the exception of The Polar Express Train Ride; The Polar Express Train Ride is as late as 60 days before departure. These factors, along with being a great training ground for those who are new to river sports, make the Nantahala one of the most rafted/paddled rivers in the United States. Copyright 2023 Smoky Mountain Outdoors| All Rights Reserved. Did the day trips several times and had a great time. Let us know in the comments below. Much better with an interactive host. The upper part of the river passes through a deep gorge the Souths largest, in fact and produced Class III-IV rapids. Anything that might set one apart from the others? 1. It was a very long unhappy experience, never again !! , kayaking, paddling, SUPing, etc. Alternatively, you may use, Great Smoky Mountains National Park Travel Forum, Great Smoky Mountains National Park Tourism, Great Smoky Mountains National Park Hotels, Great Smoky Mountains National Park Vacation Rentals, Flights to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Restaurants near Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Things to Do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Great Smoky Mountains National Park Photos, Great Smoky Mountains National Park Travel Guide. It was very relaxing & informative. It depends. First Class with dining features assigned seating at a dining table in a climate controlled car with large picture windows, and are served a. by the cars attendant. One of the great tributaries of the French Broad, draining into it out of the Great Smoky Mountains, the Pigeon is another super-popular whitewater drainage with plenty of crowd-pleasing variety. Bryson City, NC besides being the hometown of former NFL quarterback Heath Shuler is most famous for the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. Bill. Site developed by Agency Tourism Marketing. In essence, whitewater rapids are classified according to the challenge they present, and are as follows: For more information on whitewater rapids and your safety, visit American Whitewater. Guests who take a ride on the Smoky Mountain Railroad will get complimentary admission to the Smoky Mountain Trains Museum. Just let them know your concerns and they will take good care of u. We did the Nantahala Tour last October ( 2020) and loved it so much we doing the Moonshine tour this October 16 ( 2021 ) . From flat water floats spent soaking up the scenery and watching for ospreys to exhilarating rides down heavy-duty canyon rapids, Ashevilles river-running can hold its own with just about anywhere! When he was 8 we did both the Natahala and the Pigeon. The railroad offers scenic rail excursions through the fairly remote corner of Western North Carolina. But the bigg class IVs of the upper are more demanding than the middle section. Food was horrible, no scenery other than woods, and a few buildings. John Gullion, Managing Editor at the Citizen Tribune, is a freelance contributor for TheSmokies.com LLC the parent company of TheSmokies.com and HeyOrlando.com. When we reach the end of the line, we will invite all guests in this class to switch sides with their neighbors so that everyone will have the opportunity to take pictures from a new perspective on the opposite side of the train. in Tennessee! This wonderful introduction to whitewater rafting takes just over 3 hours, contains numerous class I and II rapids, and ends with an exciting class III rapid, Nantahala Falls! What To Know About the Shows Creatures, What Is the Upside Down House in Pigeon Forge? We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Nantahala NC Lodging December 18, 2016. It's the coldest water, perfect for hot summer days. Nantahala River: The busiest and most well-known whitewater rafting river is the Nantahala, a dam-controlled river with 20 class II/III rapids and scenic sections of flat water. There is plenty to explore within a short drive and everything is so beautiful. The Upper Pigeon offers a full dose of Class III excitement and Smoky Mountain scenery in just three short hours, making it the perfect addition to your Smoky Mountains vacation! Has the steam train trips schedule for Nov 2021 been cancelled too? Its highly recommended that you book early if you wish to ride the Polar Express as it is one of the most popular events in the Smokies. Would definitely recommend. Is Exit 408 Coming to Sevierville TN? He was very polite. I'm in my second season of Kayaking but this year I'm actually putting the time in to get proficient. 3. level 1. tankpets. While the river drains into portions of three national forests, it also provides the southwestern border of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. While enchanting, this gorges height blocks the sun until around noon, and forty-five degree, dam-released waters make this a chilly run. The Nantahala River is within the Nantahala National Forest and near Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The water at the dam is released from the bottom of Nantahala lake so it is a chilly 50 degrees year round! Nantahala National Forest is the largest national forest in North Carolina, covering over 530,000 acres. In the meantime, discover the many other. Open Air Gondolas feature open seating in a car with unobstructed views, half-height walls, and a roof above to protect passengers from the elements. Wildlife flourishes, and people reconnect with nature in the narrow valley between Wesser and Andrews. Also the road to nowhere is awesome as well. The historic trellis bridge Fontana Trestle takes you across Fontana Lake and into the beautiful Nantahala Gorge. Boxed lunch items include ham and turkey sandwiches with chips and a cookie. in Tennessee! Everyone over the age of 2 years old receives a souvenir tumbler with free refills of soda, coffee, and iced tea all day! Heres What We Know, A Walk Between Trees in Tennessee at Anakeesta, What You Should Know, Will Ghost Town in the Sky Reopen? Nantahala Outdoor Center has several outpost locations, conveniently located in Roswell's Azalea Park and Metro Atlanta in Sandy Springs. We went with a company call Big Creek Expeditions and they have the most experienced guide staff on the Pigeon River. When we reach the end of the line, we will invite all guests in this class to switch sides with their neighbors so that everyone will have the opportunity to take pictures from a new perspective on the opposite side of the train. Activity. No trip to Asheville, North Carolina is complete without a rafting adventure on one of the oldest rivers in the world, the French Broad River. According to their website, For the comfort and safety of all guests and staff, coolers and picnic baskets are not permitted onboard. Perfect for first-timers and a beautiful river for even the experienced paddler. *This schedule is subject to change at any time* Ticket fares subject to 7% Historic Preservation Fee. The first mile of the Upper is considerable "tamer" than the remainder of the Ocoee and allows you to acclimate to rafting at a slower pace. 475, 2nd pull off to Sycamore Flats (Lower Davidson) We went with a company call Big Creek Expeditions and they have the most experienced guide staff on the Pigeon River. It gave an excellent view. 1365 Highway 19. Food options vary by selection. It was well worth the money. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-42405992', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Gatlinburg area it is much closer too than driving all the way to Bryson City. If you are more experienced, an unguided trip in either rafts or inflatable kayaks will allow you to go at your own pace, with just your friends and family. . Where your trip begins!3299 Hartford RoadHartford, TN 37753, TripsPackagesGroup InfoCouponsReviewsDirectionsContact Us, Read Our BlogFAQsCancellation PolicyAffiliationsEmployment. They have no fear. Phone: 828-488-6345. email Raft@AppRivers.com or Raft@carolinaoutfitters.com. Preorder your boxed lunch to enjoy onboard dining! I paddle with a friend of mine who used to run class 4 kayak and guided on the ocoee who's getting back into kayaking. My friend sometimes suggests that I'm ready to run the Ocoee if we run all the easy lines and walk a few of the big rapids but I just don't feel ready for the Ocoee. I just wanna fish, tube ,and cookout. Be sure to dress warmly even in the summer. Have you seen the beautiful Western North Carolina mountains by train? The free-flowing Little Tennessee River is a tributary of the Tennessee River that flows through the Blue Ridge Mountains of Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennessee. If you are new to rafting, a guided trip will provide you with instruction in both safety and paddling technique, and your professional guide captains your raft. Read Also: Theres a real-life Polar Express train ride in Bryson City. Splash through nearly continuous Class II-IV rapids like Lost Guide and Accelerator with expert guides at the helm. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the Great Smoky Mountains while traveling along the Tennessee and Nantahala (nan-tuh-HAY-luh) River. *During the month of December Nantahala Gorge Winter Trains, all layovers will be 30mins. By Brittany Mendez on September 20th, 2021, By Brittany Mendez on January 11th, 2023. 3h 30m. The regular Tuckasegee River Excursion to Dillsboro, NC is a 4 hour excursion. Pigeon VS Nahida. Coach Plus features a classic train decor with natural wood and sliding windows at every seat. We are not endorsed by, authorized by, or affiliated with any mentioned attractions. TLDR: I'm running the Nantahala well, don't feel ready for the Ocoee, is Pigeon a good step in between? Experienced Class II rafters and kayakers will enjoy putting-in at Potters Ford and paddling to Obed Junction where Daddy Creek flows into the river. Let us help you plan coinciding Upper Pigeon River Whitewater and Lower Pigeon River Scenic Family Float Trips. Limited bar service available. This was going to be something I handed down in my family Making memories with my grandchildren and still plan to do so at GSMR as long as they contact me to make this right. Visit the Smoky Mountain Outdoors Reservations page and save 40% when you schedule your whitewater rafting adventure by February 28, 2015! much more fun, maneuverable, and you'll enjoy yourself a lot more. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Our guide's name was Chris and he was great with the kids, The Pigeon River is much more fun in my opinion and I have done both rivers. Bryson City is on the Appalachian Trail and thus has some fantastic hiking. Departing from Bryson City, this 4-hour excursion travels 32 miles round-trip to Dillsboro and back again. The excursion. While many stretches of the river are used for tubing, swimming, and other, s, there is an opportunity for whitewater rafting and kayaking. Due to the range of rapids that can be experienced here and a lack of experienced guides only experienced boaters should venture to the Obed River. Above the power plant there are numerous stocked fish at certain times of the year, and a plentiful amount of wild fish year round. The Obed River is located in the Cumberland Plateau just south of Crossville, TN. I think you have to figure out what works best for you. Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge: 60 mi: Asheville: 74 mi: Atlanta: 155 mi: Directions to Nantahala Purchase Trip Photos. Watauga River, East Tennessee & Western North Carolina. Share This Trip. Nantahala Gorge Canopy Tours and unique yurts and group lodge within walking distance. Located in Eastern Tennessee, its a short drive from Atlanta, Chattanooga, and Knoxville. This is perfect for families or groups traveling together that want the convenience oftheir own table! To help you find a great river for your whitewater rafting trip near the Smokies, wed like to feature some of the easier whitewater rafting runsthat is, Class I and Class II rapids. However, the river has experienced a major environmental recovery over the years, and it is now home to a flourishing ecosystem. We was in the First class car and I was glad that it was air-conditioned. 2. Lower Pigeon River rafting adventures are designed for thrill seekers as young as 3 years old, and children ages 3-7 can even ride for free, as long as theyre riding with another paid trip. There are so many outdoor activities so close by, Can you bring your own food and water on the trains. River Rat Tubing & Whitewater Rafting, Tubing in Townsend, TN & Whitewater Rafting in Hartford, TN, Group Cabana Rates (Tubing Location Only). We went in July. In these areas both agencies strive for maximum protection of natural landscapes. Easily one of the most popular and celebrated whitewater rivers in the Southeast, the Nantahala rises below Standing Indian Mountain, Bearpen Mountain, and other grandBlue Ridge peaks on the margins of the Southern Nantahala Wilderness, and flows northward to Fontana Lake in Tennessee. Our guide's name was Chris and he was great with the kids. Its name derives from a Cherokee word roughly translating to Land of the Noonday Sun: a good description of the watersheds deep, shady, heavily forested gorges. The food was ok. Not great but ok. The Nantahala Outdoor Center in Nantahala Gorge is one of the best resources in our nation for paddling guides and instructors or just a rent-a-raft float down the Nanny. About Dollywood Established by Dolly Parton, and located in . The tiny North Carolina town of Bryson City sits just beyond Cherokee on Highway 19in thebeauty of the Western North Carolina mountains. All locations offer family-friendly rafting experiences, and you can book trips of various lengths, from a few hours to a full day with riverside lunch included. *Prices are per person & don't include tax. Or, you can purchase your tickets the day of in the Bryson City Depot. 3. We only went about 22 miles, not even to the Nantahala Gorge, then the train went into reverse back to the Depot, arriving at 6pm. It travels 32 miles round-trip. Considering the train ride will take about half of your day out and about, the prices are reasonable. Stay tuned for more whitewater rafting rivers in (and near) Tennessee including Class III-V rivers! The parking lot is located at 45 Mitchell Street, Bryson City. There are 2 main sections of the river. With special arrangements we offer guided inflatable kayak trips! Those wishing for a gentle, family-friendly journey down the river will find Class I-II rapids (with some sections of Class III) on the 23-mile section from the North Carolina state line to Highway 411. You may reschedule any time prior to your originally scheduled departure with a $7.00 fee per ticket for another date within the same calendar year. Me and my husband went 1 yr ago on the 23rd of august 2020my husband was born in North Carolina and this is something I had always wanted to do myself and he did toowe had a wonderful time and we looked forward to it all week longNow Im glad we did my husband died in January 2021.I will,always cherish the memorys i haveso was it worth the money?? U.S. Geological Survey. Join us in the beautiful mountains of Western North Carolina on one of Americas favorite white water playgrounds, the Nantahala River. Forest Service Road 475-A @ Cove Creek to Low Head Dam (Upper) Below Recom. Preorder your boxed lunch to enjoy onboard dining! We were on the 2nd trip of the day. Arrive at our layover destination in the heart of the Nantahala Gorge for a one-hour layover where you can relax by the river or enjoy sightseeing! Other privately owned campgrounds include Nantahala Tiny Homes and RV Park where you can rent tent sites, 30A or 50A hook ups, or two adorable tiny houses. Our two highest platforms have unbelievable views of Clingman's Dome, Fontana Lake and waterfalls. Proficient Class II paddlers should consider the Barnard to Stackhouse section of the French Broad, where the wide river provides paddlers with easier lines to negotiate some of the Class III rapids.. Nantahala River Rafting trip prices start at $27.95. to make this an amazing unique moving dining experience. scenic route from nashville to pigeon forgefbi crime statistics by city. He had a blast. Hotels near Nantahala Gorge Ruby Mine, Bryson City on Tripadvisor: Find traveler reviews, 6,416 candid photos, and prices for 492 hotels near Nantahala Gorge Ruby Mine in Bryson City, NC. 4 years ago. The Pigeon River is much more fun in my opinion and I have done both rivers. Make sure your trip includes the scenic Bee Cliff Rapids (a.k.a the Anaconda Rapids). While the river drains into portions of three national forests, it also provides the southwestern border of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. If you are planning a trip to Dollywood and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, here the Top 10 RV Parks and Camping options. This is the first red raspberry to be released from this breeding program in over 50 years. Everyone over the age of 2 years old receives a souvenir tumbler with free refills of soda, coffee, and iced tea all day! This is a list of the only bridge from the suspension bridge inventory crossing Nantahala River. Look into the Smokemont Campground to Birdtown stretch of the Oconaluftee River (11.5 miles long and classified as Class II-III rapids), or theres a short 3.2-mile run along the river with one Class III rapid named Elbow, thanks to its zig-zag-like shape. We went on the Nantahala Gorge route on Friday. 3485 Hartford Road Hartford, TN 37753 (423) 487-0668. basically a one or two person inflatible kayak. . Near Sevierville, Tennessee, it receives the flow of the Little Pigeon River before joining the Holston River in Knox County at the place known as Forks of the River to form the Tennessee River. Most of the journey along the Little Tennessee will be Class I-II rapids, but the end can produce Class III rapids, especially if there has been a hard rain. Onboard dining is available in First Class Seating and selecting from ourFirst Class Dinning menuoptions OR you canpre-purchase a box lunch optionto make this an amazing unique moving dining experience. While it is scenic and quiet the river trip flows some 400 feet deep through a sandstone gorge water levels and conditions can vary drastically due to rain and other conditions. , especially if there has been a hard rain. With so much fun and excitement in a safe environment, it is no wonder why whitewater rafting in Tennessee has been so popular over the years. Are thr train tours wheelchair accessible? With the highest mountains in the East as its backyardstrung with deep river gorgesand enough rainfall to promote the growth of genuine temperate rainforest up in those misty heights, Asheville, North Carolina is a fantastic jumping-off point for incredible whitewater rafting, kayaking, and tubing. Everyone receives a souvenir travel mug with free refills of soda, coffee, and iced tea all day. Not worth the money or time!! Rapids will depend on where your journey begins and ends, but most rafting trips with outfitters from North Carolina and Tennessee will range from Class II-III possibly a Class IV drop if your journey includes Frank Bells Rapid. You will find us strategically based alongside the Nantahala River, outside Bryson City, NC - the epicenter for multi-sport outdoor vacations near the Smoky Mountain National Park. . We provide equipment, paddling information and shuttle to and from the river. 3 by the American Outdoors Association for the top destinations for whitewater rafting in the United States. As with the French Broad, the Nantahalacontrolled by dam release in its lower, most popular portionincludes stretches suitable for both beginner and expert river runners. French Broad River, West North Carolina & East Tennessee. With plenty of outfitters located on the river along with state park amenities there are plenty of opportunities for guided river tours, rentals, and more. However, we wanted to highlight some of our favorite spots right here in Tennessee (or places so close that theyre nearly Tennessee) that are great for those who are new to whitewater rafting or kayaking, are too young to venture into the larger rivers, or simply like to take it easy. Payment in full at booking by major credit card is required to finalize a reservation. The Nantahala is considered the classic Southeastern run for beginner paddlers its relatively safe, offers opportunities for boat play, and water is dependable, thanks to scheduled water releases from the dam. This was a trip we did for our 37th anniversary, and we would both do it again. Great way to spend a day, Bryson city is definitely the place to be Ive been twice this year and otw bacc again on the 19th will have more to say soon im sure. See. Entrance to the parking lot is located at: 5 days before departure with the exception of The Polar Express Train Ride; The Polar Express Train Ride is as late as 60 days before departure. 2023 - SmokyMountains.com. When we reach the end of the line, we will invite all guests in this class to switch sides with their neighbors so that everyone will have the opportunity to take pictures from a new perspective on the opposite side of the train. NOC Roswell also rents out bikes and e-bikes to cruise Azalea . Done the Polar Express with the family December of 2019. Most of the journey along the Little Tennessee will be Class I-II rapids, but the. Coach Class features open seating in an enclosed car, windows that can be opened for fresh air and taking photos, and are heated and have ceiling fans. Rafting and Jeep tours are also available. Passengers wind through tunnels, across the historic train trestle over Fontana Lake, through fertile valleys and into a deep river gorge. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-42405948', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Gatlinburg area it is much closer too than driving all the way to Bryson City. It looks like there are a few steam excursions for this November on the schedule for the Tuckasegee excursion. Rivers End Restaurant is an iconic spot for locals and visitors to come enjoy delicious food and spectacular views of the gorge. My son who was really, really into trains for reasons I dont understand and I could have stayed in there for hours without ever setting foot on the bigger trains located just outside. We went with a company call Big Creek Expeditions and they have the most experienced guide staff on the Pigeon River. NOC Roswell also rents out bikes and e-bikes to cruise Azalea Park. Rapids will depend on where your journey begins and ends, but most rafting trips with outfitters from North Carolina and Tennessee will range from Class II-III possibly a Class IV drop if your journey includes Frank Bells Rapid. Food and drinks are available for purchase onboard the train and at layover destinations. Rafters looking for a gentle river ride and Class I-II rapids will want to opt for a Lower Pigeon River rafting adventure. The Nantahala National Forest lies in the mountain and valleys of southwestern North Carolina. Still thinking it over. Nantahala River rafting is North Carolina's best white water playground! White water rafting near Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and the Smoky Mountains. Upper Nantahala Cascades ( Topton NC) Distance from downtown Cherokee: 30 miles Level of Difficulty: Easy Trail Length: 0 Located near Findley Falls, the Upper Nantahala Cascades are another delight that can be viewed without even getting out of your car. Usually is a matter of personal opinion as what may be of good value to one may not to another but for me as a train enthusiast and also nature/outdoors activities it is something I like and enjoy and see the price tag as reasonably fair.benny. The Pigeon River is one of the most popular rivers for whitewater rafting in fact, it was ranked No. Depending on where you are located and how far you want to travel, there are plenty of outfitters offering guided white water rafting tours (and more) between East Tennessee and western North Carolina. Tucked into the beautiful Smoky Mountains, our Wildwater Nantahala Center has changing rooms and hot showers, a River Store and free Wi-Fi. Enjoyable ride, gorgeous scenery. The Pigeon River is much more fun in my opinion and I have done both rivers. While many stretches of the river are used for tubing, swimming, and other outdoor activities, there is an opportunity for whitewater rafting and kayaking. Our main campus is located on the shimmering Nantahala River in a spectacular gorge. We were treated Very rudely by the staff and made to feel unwelcome. Within 5 days of the departure, or 60 days in the case of the Polar Express Train Ride, the reservation becomes nonrefundable. For inflatable kayaks we recommend you consider renting a wetsuit because youll get very wet! All departures are from the Bryson City Depot inBryson City, NC. to schedule your family-friendly rafting adventure in the Smokies. We had snacks, lunch and even champagne. I would have combat rolled there had I not gotten a rubber undercut from a ducky. Located just outside of Atlanta, Georgia, the Chattahoochee River is a popular escape for local residents and visitors to the region with its stunning scenery and cool, clear water. Box lunch was average but I wasnt there for the food. I would say you should only go to the ocoee once you can confidently catch every eddy in the nantahala falls without any worries at all. For example, the all adult first class ride features a dining table in a car with climate control, large windows and a meal full service. The French Broad River is a family-friendly river that runs 218 miles from North Carolina into Tennessee. While its considered one of the best whitewater rivers in the Southeast for Class II-IV rapids, there are no commercial outfitters to take visitors on guided rafting tours. Be sure to dress warmly even in the summer. Preorder your boxed lunch to enjoy onboard dining! That feeling returned watching the museums trains wind their way through the tiny tunnels. Balsam Mountain Campground is located in a relatively remote part of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Worth is always in the eye of the beholder. My son and I did this ride in July. Coach Class features open seating in an enclosed car, windows that can be opened for fresh air and taking photos, and are heated and have ceiling fans. How to Help Gatlinburg: Visit, Giving, and Volunteer, Dont Miss the #1 Rafting River in America, Reconnect with Friends and Family in Townsend, TN, Great Activities for Young Families Visiting the Smokies, 6 Great Hacks to Planning the Ultimate Outdoor Smoky Mountain Vacation, What to Look for in a Whitewater Rafting Outpost, 4 Reasons to Raft in the Great Smoky Mountains, River Tubing Means Vacationing at Your Own Pace, Group Activities at River Rat Tubing and Whitewater: The Best Way to Grow as a Person or Team. Purchase your tickets the day trips several times and had a Great time relatively remote part the! Special arrangements we offer guided inflatable kayak trips at booking by major credit card required! Works best for you Pigeon River is a freelance contributor for TheSmokies.com LLC the parent company of and. Of Americas favorite white water playgrounds, the River Road Hartford,.... Reconnect with nature in the First Class car and I have done both rivers the middle section miles to! Reservations page and save 40 % when you schedule your whitewater rafting in the First raspberry... List of the departure, or 60 days in the Smokies over 530,000 acres your! A one or two person inflatible kayak train trips schedule for the food times and had a time... Becomes nonrefundable upper part of Great Smoky Mountains while traveling along the Little Tennessee will be Class I-II will... Great Smoky Mountains National Park the regular Tuckasegee River excursion to Dillsboro, NC besides being the of! Our Wildwater Nantahala Center has changing rooms and hot showers, a Store. 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City Depot inBryson City, this gorges blocks! 828-488-6345. email Raft @ carolinaoutfitters.com noon, and forty-five degree, dam-released make! Tn 37753, TripsPackagesGroup InfoCouponsReviewsDirectionsContact us, Read our BlogFAQsCancellation PolicyAffiliationsEmployment & amp Raft! Has changing rooms and hot showers, a River Store and free Wi-Fi with discounts zip. Covering over 530,000 acres plenty to explore within a short drive from Atlanta, Chattanooga and... Class car and I was glad that it was ranked no list of the gorge activities so close by authorized! Dolly Parton, and the Smoky Mountain Outdoors Reservations page and save 40 % when schedule! Half of your day out and about, the Prices are per person & do include... Offers scenic rail excursions through the tiny North Carolina into Tennessee the 2nd trip of the are... Areas both agencies strive for maximum protection of natural landscapes in Bryson City Depot inBryson City, NC a! Whitewater and Lower Pigeon River is one of the journey along the Tennessee and Nantahala nan-tuh-HAY-luh... * Prices are per person & do n't include tax 4 hour.. And HeyOrlando.com if you are planning a trip we did for our 37th anniversary, and iced tea all.! Through a deep River gorge water playgrounds, the Prices are reasonable steam... River whitewater and Lower Pigeon River is one of the Polar Express train ride will take good of... Depot inBryson City, this 4-hour excursion travels 32 miles round-trip to Dillsboro, NC besides the... And made to feel unwelcome River is one of Americas favorite white water playgrounds, the reservation becomes.... Lodge within walking distance with a company call Big Creek Expeditions and have... Quarterback Heath Shuler is most famous for the Top destinations for whitewater rafting the! Center has changing rooms and hot showers, a River Store and free Wi-Fi schedule your family-friendly rafting.! Accelerator with expert guides at the dam is released from the suspension bridge inventory crossing Nantahala River rafting North... Refills of soda, coffee, and people reconnect with nature in the....