If you are ever near western North Carolina or eastern Tennessee, a definite must-do is rafting the whitewater of the Nolichucky River. What an awe-inspiring experience! I did it for the first time this week and loved it. It doesn't matter that the river was high and rising due to challenging amounts of rain or that it was overcast or sprinkling through the whole ride; it was amazing.
The original plan was to raft the upper portion of the river, the Gorge, but plans had to change when there was a concern about the rising water. The lower portion is a "less technical" stretch, and therefore not as popular with the rafting regulars. Our group of novice rafters was excited either way. Due to the rain, although this lower portion was not technically challenging, it did not disappoint in terms of water speed and "waves."
We used USA Raft, located right on the Nolichucky. We stayed overnight in one of their tiny houses and were very pleased. None of the accommodations are equipped with restrooms or running water, but there are several restrooms located around the lodging area. Every building is kept remarkably neat and clean, and prices are very reasonable. I recommend staying here. There are several lodging options. They even have a lodge with a complete kitchen, living area, and dining area. We spent time there playing games at the dining table. They have a small selection of games on site, but I suggest bringing some favorites from home. There is even free wifi available at the lodge for those of you who just can't disconnect for a little while. 😀
We entered the river about 2:00 pm and traveled 13 miles downriver. We had the best guide ever! When you go, request Jonathan Holley. Okay, I may be a little biased since he's my nephew, but he really is a great guide. He stayed focused and did an excellent job of keeping all of us focused and involved on the trip. We weren't just "along for the ride." Although he was disappointed that we didn't get to raft the Gorge, he made the lower trip interesting and exciting for us. We navigated around hanging branches, across dips, around turns, and through some of the most lovely scenery I have viewed. We also got to stop for a rest at a small creek where we viewed a pretty waterfall lost in a jungle of greenery. Gorgeous!
We will be returning, hopefully before the summer is over. I encourage you to make the trip too!
USA Raft
