North Carolina is home to some of the most scenic rivers in the United States. Some of these rivers include the Cheoah River, the French Broad River and the Nantahala River. These rivers are some of the finest that North Carolina has to offer for whitewater rafting and river adventures. Each river is unique and has their own special qualities that ensures everyone has an opportunity to enjoy a day on the river in North Carolina!
The Cheoah River
The Cheoah River is located in Robinsville, North Carolina. The Cheoah River is a tributary, a freshwater stream that flows into a larger body of water, to the Little Tennessee River. This river starts its 20 mile flow North West towards the Santeetlah Dam, through the Appalachian Mountains, ending at Calderwood Lake. Only 9 miles of the 20 mile stretch is used for whitewater rafting. Rafting on the Cheoah River is no joke. This river is a Class IV+, meaning that rafters must be experienced, be in good health and must be at least 16 years of age. Rafting on the Cheoah River is filled with high speeds, strong rapids and currents and even a 15 foot drop on Bear Creek Falls. The Cheoah River may be a crazy ride, but it is also filled with some of the best scenery North Carolina has to offer!
The French Broad River
Marshall, North Carolina is home to the French Broad River. The French Broad River flows from North Carolina into the Tennessee, through the Appalachian Mountains and connects with the Holston River, creating the Tennessee River. The total length of the French Broad’s flow from North Carolina to Tennessee is 213 miles. The French Broad River provides a variety of rafting choices. This free flowing river has two different sides to it. During the Spring when all is thawed the French Broad River brings rafters big waves. While in the Summer time the French Broad becomes more of a scenic float trip through the Pisgah National Forest. Rafting on the French Broad River consists of class 2, 3 and 4 rapids and is for rafters ages 8 and up.
The Nantahala
The Nantahala River is located in Western North Carolina in Bryson City. The Nantahala River flows through the Great Smokey Mountains in Nantahala National Park. There is so much for visitors of the Nantahala River to do and see! This family friendly river has kayak trips, whitewater rafting, fishing and much more. Families can bring a camera, with some sort of waterproof protection and take a sightseeing kayak trip. The Nantahala River also offers whitewater rafting with class 2 and 3 rapids on the lower part and class 3 and 4 rapids on the upper part. There is an weight/age restriction by law for rafting on the Nantahala; all rafters must weigh at least 60 pounds or be at least the age of 7. Not only is this river good for aquatic adventures, but the Nantahala River is home to some of the best trout fishing in the United States. Fishing on the Nantahala River can be for everyone no matter what your experience level is. If you are trying to plan a family weekend away with something for everyone in the family, the Nantahala River is your best bet!
Interested in planning a trip to visit North Carolina and raft on one of its many beautiful rivers? Check out Endless River Adventures to book your trip today!
Endless River Adventures
