The Nantahala River Gorge is a treasure trove of outdoor adventures, and while Nantahala White Water Rafting is undoubtedly the star attraction, the excitement doesn’t have to end there! Many visitors discover that combining their thrilling river experience with other activities truly makes for an unforgettable trip.
If you’re looking to maximize your adventure in the “Land of the Noon-Day Sun,” here’s how to craft the perfect combo experience with Nantahala White Water Rafting, including ziplines, hiking, and more.
A combo adventure allows you to:
- Experience Diverse Thrills: Go from the splash of the rapids to the soar of the ziplines, offering a varied day of excitement.
- Cater to All Interests: Great for groups or families where some members might prefer a different type of adventure alongside rafting.
- Maximize Your Time: Instead of just a half-day rafting trip, turn it into a full day (or even a multi-day) immersive outdoor experience.
- Value for Money: Many outfitters offer discounted packages when you book multiple activities together.
Popular Nantahala White Water Rafting Combo Adventures
The Nantahala Gorge is home to several premier outdoor centers that make combining activities seamless. Here are some of the most popular pairings:
1. Rafting & Ziplining: The “River to Ridge” Experience
This is arguably the most sought-after combo, offering thrills on both land and air.
- The Rafting: Begin your day with the exhilarating Class II and III rapids of the Nantahala River. Whether you choose a guided trip or a self-guided raft, you’ll get your dose of whitewater excitement, culminating in the iconic Nantahala Falls.
- The Ziplining: After your river adventure, soar through the treetops on a zipline course. Options typically range from shorter, family-friendly courses with aerial obstacles (like the Zip Line Adventure Park) to longer, high-flying mountaintop tours that offer panoramic views of the Nantahala Gorge and surrounding Smoky Mountains. Imagine transitioning from the cool spray of the river to gliding high above the forest canopy!
2. Rafting & Hiking: Immerse Yourself in Nature
For those who love to explore on foot, combining your raft trip with a scenic hike is a fantastic way to experience the region’s natural beauty.
- The Rafting: Enjoy your half-day on the Nantahala’s refreshing waters.
- The Hiking: The Nantahala National Forest boasts an incredible network of trails. You can choose from:
- Riverside Strolls: Easy, paved paths that follow the Nantahala River, perfect for a leisurely walk post-rafting.
- Appalachian Trail Access: The famous Appalachian Trail actually crosses the Nantahala River right at the Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC). You can hike a short section of this legendary trail.
- Waterfall Hikes: Explore nearby trails like those in Deep Creek (a short drive away), which lead to beautiful waterfalls, offering stunning photo opportunities and a refreshing dip.
3. Rafting & Mountain Biking: Pedal & Paddle
If you crave speed and adrenaline, a mountain biking and rafting combo is a perfect fit.
- The Rafting: Tackle the Nantahala’s rapids in the morning or afternoon.
- The Mountain Biking: Hit the trails on a rental mountain bike. The Tsali Recreation Area, known for its world-class singletrack, is just a short drive from the Nantahala Gorge, offering trails for various skill levels. Some outfitters also have on-site trails or guided biking tours.
4. Rafting & More Unique Adventures
Beyond the popular trio, the Nantahala area offers even more ways to expand your adventure:
- “Ducky” or Funyak Kayaking: For experienced paddlers, opt for a “ducky” (inflatable kayak) on your second run of the river, offering a more intimate and challenging whitewater experience.
- Ropes Courses/Aerial Parks: Test your agility and balance on elevated ropes courses with various obstacles.
- Jeep Tours: Take a guided off-road Jeep tour to discover hidden waterfalls and scenic overlooks in the surrounding mountains.
- Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Excursion: Combine your rafting with a scenic train ride through the Nantahala Gorge, offering unique views of the river from above.
Planning Your Nantahala Combo Adventure
- Research Outfitters: Major outfitters like Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC), Rolling Thunder River Company, and Wildwater Rafting often have pre-packaged combo deals on their websites.
- Book in Advance: Especially for popular combinations during peak season, booking ahead is crucial.
- Pace Yourself: While exciting, these combo adventures can be physically demanding. Ensure you choose activities and a schedule that matches your group’s fitness level.
- Dress Appropriately: For multi-activity days, bring quick-drying clothing, secure water shoes for rafting, and closed-toe shoes for ziplining or hiking. Always pack a dry change of clothes and a towel!
No matter which combination you choose, a Nantahala White Water Rafting adventure paired with another thrilling activity promises a day (or more!) of unparalleled fun and memories in the heart of the Smoky Mountains. Get ready to splash, soar, and explore!
