Western North Carolina has been blessed with an abundance of whitewater rivers. Lake Junaluska Conference & Retreat Center is conveniently located to three of the most outstanding, offering rafting packages on the Nantahala, the French Broad and the Pigeon.
Nantahala River
Over thousands of years, the swift currents of the Nantahala River have carved an incredble gorge, lush with vegetation, in the mountains of western North Carolina. Winding eight miles through this gorge, the clear waters of the Nantahala offer plenty of practice on easy Class II rapids before culminating in the exciting Class III whitewater of the mighty Nantahala Falls.
Nantahala River Facts:
French Broad River
The world's third oldest river, the stately French Broad flows through scenic Pisgah National Forest in the mountains of North Carolina.
French Broad River Facts:
Pigeon River
The Pigeon River carves a deep gorge through the Great Smoky Mountains, splashing throughCherokee National Forest. Only 30 miles Gatlinburg, TN. The Upper Pigeon, featuring fairly continuous Class II, III and IV rapids, is suited to youth groups and childen 8 years and older.
Pigeon River Facts:
Tuckaseegee Rafting Carolina Mountains Outdoor Center company is best suited to groups as a budgeted and self paced outfitter. This company operates on a 5.2 miles section of the Tuckaseegee between Dillsboro and Whittier. This section is described as a Class II river, ideal for beginner or intermediate paddlers.
Blue Ridge Outing Company caters to families and first time boaters. This family whitewater rafting trip is the perfect combination of fun, adventure, and safety for younger kids and their families. It's also great for beginners up to age 11. Definitely whitewater, definitely not big whitewater. On the milder and warmer Tuck. You'll be rafting with the most experienced & knowledgeable kids rafting outfitter on the planet.