Nantahala Rafting

Falling Waters Nantahala

Nantahala Rafting – When you stay at Falling Waters Nantahala, you’re within walking distance of Wildwater’s Nantahala rafting center. North Carolina’s Nantahala River is one of the most popular rafting rivers in the United States! Enjoy friendly Class 2 whitewater action with a few exciting class 3 rapids. Choose from fully guided, guide-assisted, or rental raft & inflatable kayak trip options. No experience needed!

Wildwater Nantahala Rafting

Wildwater provides fully guided and rental trips on the Nantahala River. Its 8 miles of constant waves, swift, clear currents, and magnificent scenery provide an exhilarating introduction to whitewater rafting. Rapids such as the Whirlpool, the Bump, and Nantahala Falls provide just enough excitement. Our Adventure Center is located just across the street from Falling Waters Nantahala. Visit our sister website WildwaterRafting.com for full details.

Nantahala River Fully Guided Raft Trip

Experience the delights of the Nantahala River and its beauty on a fully guided raft trip. Our skilled and friendly guides and the playful Nantahala make this an excellent introduction to whitewater rafting. Perfect for first-timers ages 7 and up or 60 lbs.

  • 3+ hours
  • Numerous class I and II rapids, with a class III at the end

Nantahala River Raft & Rail©

Spend a beautiful day in the Nantahala Gorge with Wildwater and the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad.

  • 2-hour railroad excursion over Fontana Lake and into the Nantahala Gorge
  • Fully guided raft trip on the entire 8 miles of the Nantahala River, ages 7 and up (or 60 lbs.)
  • Includes a picnic lunch, changing facilities with hot showers, and transportation back to your car at the train depot in Bryson City

Nantahala Inflatable Kayaks & Raft Rentals

Confident with your paddling skills? Rent an inflatable ducky and experience the Nantahala on your own, ages 7 and up (or 60 lbs.).

  • Orientation
  • Equipment: 1- and 2-person inflatable kayaks or 4- and 6-person rafts
  • Shuttle to and from Nantahala River put out
  • Facilities: Changing rooms and hot showers, river store, free Wi-Fi and picnic pavilion
nantahaha kayak

Activities

  • Nantahala Ziplining

    Fly through the trees on the longest ziplines in Nantahala!

  • Jeep® Tours

    Explore the secret back roads of the Nantahala region with a Jeep® tour!

  • Train Adventures

    Combine the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad with whitewater rafting in the Nantahala Gorge.

Lodging

  • Yurt Village

    Our comfortable, traditional yurts are a unique and inspiring alternative to cabin rentals.

  • Group Lodge

    Our casual mountain group lodge accommodates up to 40 people with all amenities.

  • Group Campsite

    Our new private group campsite has tent platforms, grassy tent sites, and a private bathhouse.