Nantahala River rafting is North Carolina's best white water playground! That feeling returned watching the museums trains wind their way through the tiny tunnels. When we reach the end of the line, we will invite all guests in this class to switch sides with their neighbors so that everyone will have the opportunity to take pictures from a new perspective on the opposite side of the train. It is a bit too calm for athletic outdoor folks! I don't want the (what appears to be dull) Lower Pigeon experience. With an 8 year old, the Nantahala is a little more tame, but still lots of fun! in Tennessee! At the North Carolina entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park lies the Oconaluftee River or Luftee for short. Had a great tour guide. Check out the full schedule here: https://www.gsmr.com/train-schedule/. Guests receive a souvenir tumbler with free refills of soda, coffee and tea and limited bar service. Otherwise, admission is $9 for ages 12 and up and $5 for ages 3-11 years. It was well worth the money. The original zipline canopy tour in Western North Carolina, Nantahala Gorge Canopy Tours offers 11 different zip lines and 7 sky bridges. If you are new to rafting, a guided trip will provide you with instruction in both safety and paddling technique, and your professional guide captains your raft. We found out the best car was the open air gondola premium first class to be excellent. The regular Tuckasegee River Excursion to Dillsboro, NC is a 4 hour excursion. We went with a company call Big Creek Expeditions and they have the most experienced guide staff on the Pigeon River. Oconaluftee River, Western North Carolina. Not much scenery as its mostly dark, but the entertainment and food were fabulous. Experience a ride through the 836 foot long Cowee Tunnel. Worth is always in the eye of the beholder. Usually is a matter of personal opinion as what may be of good value to one may not to another but for me as a train enthusiast and also nature/outdoors activities it is something I like and enjoy and see the price tag as reasonably fair.benny. We was in the First class car and I was glad that it was air-conditioned. However, the river itself is what brings people back time and time again. . These factors, along with being a great training ground for those who are new to river sports, make the Nantahala one of the most rafted/paddled rivers in the United States. My friend sometimes suggests that I'm ready to run the Ocoee if we run all the easy lines and walk a few of the big rapids but I just don't feel ready for the Ocoee. Rapids will depend on where your journey begins and ends, but most rafting trips with outfitters from North Carolina and Tennessee will range from Class II-III possibly a Class IV drop if your journey includes Frank Bells Rapid. Read More. or call our reservations department at (800) 872-4681. 3485 Hartford Road Hartford, TN 37753 (423) 487-0668. Proficient Class II paddlers should consider the, of the French Broad, where the wide river provides paddlers with easier lines to negotiate some of the Class III rapids., The free-flowing Little Tennessee River is a tributary of the Tennessee River that flows through the Blue Ridge Mountains of Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennessee. in Tennessee! When we reach the end of the line, we will invite all guests in this class to switch sides with their neighbors so that everyone will have the opportunity to take pictures from a new perspective on the opposite side of the train. We just enjoyed a short stay in Bryson City. Thank you! Adults (21+) are served a. by the cars attendant. These factors, along with being a great training ground for those who are new to river sports, make the Nantahala one of the most rafted/paddled rivers in the United States. Thats not our fault and why shouldnt we get a refund??? I highly recommend. First Class with dining features assigned seating at a dining table in a climate controlled car with large picture windows, and are served ameal by the cars attendant. I would say you should only go to the ocoee once you can confidently catch every eddy in the nantahala falls without any worries at all. View the current schedule on their website. Flowing right through Asheville, it also supplies the citys most accessible river trips and a lot of variety: from broad, calm, flat-water stretches to more tumbling whitewater with rapids up to Class IV. . The most basic run is the eight-mile reach of Class II and III rapids through the Nantahala Gorge between the Natahala Powerhouse and Wesser, above Fontana Lake; its thrill-ride features include Pattons Run, Tumble Dry, Whirlpool Rapids, and Nantahala Falls. While enchanting, this gorges height blocks the sun until around noon, and forty-five degree, dam-released waters make this a chilly run. As part of the Pigeon Rivers resurgence, recreational whitewater rafting started to become popular in both the Upper and the Lower parts of the river. *During the month of December Nantahala Gorge Winter Trains, all layovers will be 30mins. Pigeon is an awesome in between river. We're hitting the Pigeon on Wednesday if anyone wants to come with. In the meantime, discover the many other great rivers you could be rafting, kayaking, paddling, SUPing, etc. Other excursions and/or events are available. Because Great Smoky Mountains National Park is next to Cherokee, Pisgah and Nantahala National Forests, visitors need to pay attention to where they are. Pigeon River - Hartford, TN. Then theres the dam-release foam and spray of the Cheoah River in far southwestern North Carolina, a tributary of the Little Tennessee that includes Class IV and V rapids in its coveted course. Food and drinks are available for purchase onboard the train and at layover destinations. Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate and a partner of other affiliate programs including Booking.com, CJ and Tripster, we may earn commissions from qualifying purchases via links found in this article. Tucked into the beautiful Smoky Mountains, our Wildwater Nantahala Center has changing rooms and hot showers, a River Store and free Wi-Fi. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. There are numerous options for both food and drink available onboard the train, at and around the depot, and at layovers. Hope that helps! The water at the dam is released from the bottom of Nantahala lake so it is a chilly 50 degrees year round! is located in the Cumberland Plateau just south of Crossville, TN. Thanks for watching. We took the train ride on Aug.11 and enjoyed it. If you have paddling experience, and an appetite for adventure, renting your own raft can be huge fun. I go on the Hiwasee fairly often as well with my friends in my kayak but these last five weekends have been the Nanty. Bryson City, NC besides being the hometown of former NFL quarterback Heath Shuler is most famous for the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. Bill. Enjoy eight miles of crystal clear water and constant waves that make the Nantahala River a delight for all ages and groups. The Pigeon River is dam-controlled and split into two segments: the Upper and the Lower Pigeon River. Our AffiliatesGatlinburg Chamber of Commerce, Pigeon Forge Chamber of Commerce, Sevierville Chamber of Commerce, Gatlinburg Hospitality and Tourism Association, and Pigeon Forge Hospitality and Tourism Association. 03505550. n/a. First off, the 2pm steam train we were on to the Nantahala Gorge did not leave until approximately 2:40pm. Prices vary by season, ticket, age and train experience. It looks like there are a few steam excursions for this November on the schedule for the Tuckasegee excursion. The excursion. Check out the other Nantahala River things to do. There are 2 main sections of the river. Also, similarly named rivers are . As the Leaders in Outdoor Adventure, Nantahala Outdoor Center offers whitewater rafting and adventure on multiple rivers throughout the Southeast perfect for any adventure level, whether it be a mild float trip or heart-pumping Class IV rapids! You can also book packages. French Broad River, West North Carolina & East Tennessee. Bryson City is on the Appalachian Trail and thus has some fantastic hiking. You may cancel your reservation in full or in part and receive a refund less a $14.00 fee per adult ticket and $6.00 fee per child ticket as late as 5 days before departure with the exception of The Polar Express Train Ride; The Polar Express Train Ride is as late as 60 days before departure. There was a time when the Pigeon River, named after the extinct passenger pigeon, was heavily polluted by area industries. But they offer the perfect opportunity for train-obsessed little ones to get into the spirit of the season and get to ride a real train. Video. Make sure to call. Nantahala River: The busiest and most well-known whitewater rafting river is the Nantahala, a dam-controlled river with 20 class II/III rapids and scenic sections of flat water. We are not endorsed by, authorized by, or affiliated with any mentioned attractions. Learn About the History of White Water Rafting, 5 Reasons You Should Vacation in the Smokies, 7 Facts You Didnt Know About the History of Kayaking in Gatlinburg, Top 4 Reasons to Go White Water Rafting in Tennessee With a Group, Top 5 Reasons Why White Water Rafting in the Smoky Mountains is the Best Thrill Ride in Tennessee, Top 4 Trails for Viewing the Smoky Mountain Wildflowers This Spring, Top 4 Reasons Why Your Family Will Love Spending Spring Break in the Smoky Mountains. While many stretches of the river are used for tubing, swimming, and other, s, there is an opportunity for whitewater rafting and kayaking. There are plenty of great whitewater rafting destinations in Tennessee and North Carolina in fact, here are the best 50 rivers in the Southeast. You and your group can explore eight miles of the Nantahalas class I and II rapids at your own pace, before splashing through the rivers only class III drop, Nantahala Falls at the trips end. Coach Class features open seating in an enclosed car, windows that can be opened for fresh air and taking photos, and are heated and have ceiling fans. FS Rd. Tickets start at $54, which includes transportation from the Nantahala Outdoor Center in Bryson City (about 65 miles southwest of Asheville) to the starting point on the river. After checking in at the store counter, you'll get fully equipped, receive . Hotels near Nantahala Gorge Ruby Mine, Bryson City on Tripadvisor: Find traveler reviews, 6,416 candid photos, and prices for 492 hotels near Nantahala Gorge Ruby Mine in Bryson City, NC. Be sure not to miss this take-out spot, as dangerous Class V rapids at Lower Nantahala Falls begin just downstream. Cherokee is just 10 or 15 mins away. Tennessee - Ocoee River, Pigeon River, Watauga River and Nolichucky River. The historic trellis bridge Fontana Trestle takes you across Fontana Lake and into the beautiful Nantahala Gorge. I finally got my roll a few weeks ago and just got my first combat roll on the Nanty last week in the waves after the rock quarry rapid. Internationally, we offer you adventure vacations in Ecuador that include white water kayaking trips, whitewater rafting, bird watching and custom EcoAdventure Trips. Copyright 2023 Smoky Mountain Outdoors| All Rights Reserved. Research from the American Outdoors Association also shows that adventure travel, which includes whitewater rafting, is the fastest growing segment of the countrys tourism industry. One of the major attractions in Bryson City is, of course, the trains. Yes, you can take a scenic tour of the Smoky Mountains by train. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. Good to hear such a promising review! Ride the train up the Nantahala Gorge in the open air gondala car, very Covid19 safe and had a blast rafting 3 hours back down the river. See their website at http://www.noc.com Most of the rafting companies are fine, but I'd always select the NOC when there's a choice. Little Tennessee River, East Tennessee & West North Carolina. Enjoyable experience. My son who was really, really into trains for reasons I dont understand and I could have stayed in there for hours without ever setting foot on the bigger trains located just outside. Several large decks and a pavilion provide a great place to picnic with your family or large group before or after your trip. Located deep in Western North Carolinas Pisgah National Forest, the French Broad features warm water, scenic mountain views, and plenty of fun Class II and III rapids. With 500-acres of adventure, guests can choose from family-friendly, guided whitewater rafting on mild but exciting rapids, ducky rentals, aerial and zipline activities, and mountain biking. But if you go just a little further past the state line of Tennessee, youll find that the neighboring state also has a lot to offer especially for train enthusiasts. Its highly recommended that you book early if you wish to ride the Polar Express as it is one of the most popular events in the Smokies. This is perfect for families or groups traveling together that want the convenience oftheir own table! We did the Nantahala Tour last October ( 2020) and loved it so much we doing the Moonshine tour this October 16 ( 2021 ) . Looking for the best activity deal? TLDR: I'm running the Nantahala well, don't feel ready for the Ocoee, is Pigeon a good step in between? Lower Pigeon River rafting adventures are designed for thrill seekers as young as 3 years old, and children ages 3-7 can even ride for free, as long as theyre riding with another paid trip. Great way to spend a day, Bryson city is definitely the place to be Ive been twice this year and otw bacc again on the 19th will have more to say soon im sure. Nantahala Weather in April By April, temperatures in Nantahala are rapidly warming up, with highs in the low 70s and nighttime lows in the 40s or 50s. By special arrangement we offer guided ducky trips that allow you the experience of getting to captain your own boat, but with an experienced leader. An exciting half day guided rafting trip for families and those looking for outdoor adventure in the Smokies. With the highest mountains in the East as its backyardstrung with deep river gorgesand enough rainfall to promote the growth of genuine temperate rainforest up in those misty heights, Asheville, North Carolina is a fantastic jumping-off point for incredible whitewater rafting, kayaking, and tubing. With so much fun and excitement in a safe environment, it is no wonder why whitewater rafting in Tennessee has been so popular over the years. While the river itself runs along the road, theres still plenty of beautiful scenery thanks to the surrounding views of the Nantahala Gorge. One of the . We looked forward to doing this for a long time and finally did it recently and I must say I was very disappointed. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. However, we wanted to highlight some of our favorite spots right here in Tennessee (or places so close that theyre nearly Tennessee) that are great for those who are new to whitewater rafting or kayaking, are too young to venture into the larger rivers, or simply like to take it easy. Our elite guides offer two rafting trips; Section IV offers the most exciting whitewater with its Class IV-V and a riverside lunch, while Section III is more family-friendly featuring Class II-III rapids and stops for lunch, playing, and swimming. Considering the train ride will take about half of your day out and about, the prices are reasonable. Prices for children range from $33-46 per child. Adults (21+) are served amealby the cars attendant. Lots of adult beverage options. In these areas both agencies strive for maximum protection of natural landscapes. I just wanna fish, tube ,and cookout. The historic trellis bridge Fontana Trestle takes you across Fontana Lake and into the beautiful Nantahala Gorge. Full of history, stories and embellishments that kept everyone amused and in a good mood. 4 years ago. While we do our best to bring you the most up-to-date information, TheSmokies.com LLC makes no warranties regarding the accuracy or completeness of any content contained within. Walnut Cove Rdg Lot 9, Bryson City, NC 28713 is for sale. Another great option is Turkey Creek Campground where all sites have fireplaces and picnic tables. Stay tuned for more whitewater rafting rivers in (and near) Tennessee including Class III-V rivers! While the river drains into portions of three national forests, it also provides the southwestern border of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Departing from Bryson City, this 4-hour excursion travels 32 miles round-trip to Dillsboro and back again. The Nolichucky River is a 115-mile free-flowing river that flows from western North Carolinas Mount Mitchell into East Tennessee. Thats due to the fact that the river is designated a National Wild and Scenic River and is operated by the National Park Service. While many stretches of the river are used for tubing, swimming, and other outdoor activities, there is an opportunity for whitewater rafting and kayaking. 1,063 were here. I would have combat rolled there had I not gotten a rubber undercut from a ducky. much more fun, maneuverable, and you'll enjoy yourself a lot more. Within 5 days of the departure, or 60 days in the case of the Polar Express Train Ride, the reservation becomes nonrefundable. NOC Gatlinburg carries everything necessary to enjoy excursions into the Smokies including our signature "gifts, gear and guidance.". You will be notified if a change in schedule or motive power affects your reservation. luh) is a Cherokee word that means "Land of the Noonday Sun." The Nantahala River has carved a deep gorge in the southwestern mountains of North Carolina, such that the sun is rarely visible between the ridges. You can find more information at the Obed Visitor Center in Wartburg, TN or on the National Park Services page dedicated to experiencing the wild and scenic Obed River. Just let them know your concerns and they will take good care of u. (Its broader watershed extends to Mount Mitchell, the highest peak in the U.S. east of the Mississippi.) Given the nature of railroading, durations are approximate and subject to change without notice. I paddle with a friend of mine who used to run class 4 kayak and guided on the ocoee who's getting back into kayaking. The French Broad River is a family-friendly river that runs 218 miles from North Carolina into Tennessee. I wanted the freedom to have drinks, breakfast, lunch and A/C. We had our four year old daughter and my parents and we all enjoyed the trip. Add an official Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Fleece Blanket to your reservation for just $32! Let us help you plan coinciding Upper Pigeon River Whitewater and Lower Pigeon River Scenic Family Float Trips. Rafters looking for a gentle river ride and Class I-II rapids will want to opt for a Lower Pigeon River rafting adventure. When we reach the end of the line, we will invite all guests in this class to switch sides with their neighbors so that everyone will have the opportunity to take pictures from a new perspective on the opposite side of the train. Our 5.5 mile Lower River Rafting Trip features approximately 50 class 1 and 2 rapids, making it the ideal trip for kids and families with younger children. The other people we met, talked to & had lunch with were worth every penny. Call Now Visit Website. No, the seats we very uncomfortable, the box lunch was lacking, still havent figured out what there was about the lunch. We went with a company call Big Creek Expeditions and they have the most experienced guide staff on the Pigeon River. There are so many outdoor activities so close by, Can you bring your own food and water on the trains. This wonderful introduction to whitewater rafting takes just over 3 hours, contains numerous class I and II rapids, and ends with an exciting class III rapid, Nantahala Falls! Rapids will depend on where your journey begins and ends, but most rafting trips with outfitters from North Carolina and Tennessee will range from Class II-III possibly a Class IV drop if your journey includes Frank Bells Rapid. My wife and i took a dinner excursion,our kids bought us the tickets.. we were not aware i was a formal event,we dressed casual, khakis and sport shirt. 475, 2nd pull off to Sycamore Flats (Lower Davidson) Service was good. This subreddit is a place to discuss anything and everything relating to whitewater. However, there is a family-friendly section of the Nolichucky River the Lower Nolichucky! Preorder your boxed lunch to enjoy onboard dining! Preorder your boxed lunch to enjoy onboard dining. Experienced Class II rafters and kayakers will enjoy putting-in at Potters Ford and paddling to Obed Junction where Daddy Creek flows into the river. Perfect for first-timers and a beautiful river for even the experienced paddler. The Nantahala River is an excellent classroom for beginners. The Chattooga is just as legendary (maybe even more so) than the Nantahala. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. The Nantahala River. He had a blast. If you go to Bryson City, I recommend allowing some extra time for the Smoky Mountain Trains Museum. We went in July. Smoky Mtn. Ride this excursion viaSteamorDiesellocomotive power! The largest of North Carolina's four National Forests, the Nantahala encompasses 531,148 acres with elevations ranging from 5,800 feet at Lone Bald in Jackson County to 1,200 feet in Cherokee County along Hiwassee River. The most affordable option is coach class, which starts at about $58 for adults and $33 for children. Had a great time! Coach Class features open seating in an enclosed car, windows that can be opened for fresh air and taking photos, and are heated and have ceiling fans. By Brittany Mendez on September 20th, 2021, By Brittany Mendez on January 11th, 2023. The Lower Pigeon is perfect for families with young children or those looking for a mild float trip. If youre looking for a rafting trip with big waves, warm water, and non-stop whitewater action, the Ocoee River delivers. The Pigeon River is one of the most popular rivers for whitewater rafting in fact, it was ranked No. Nantahala Weather in July 'Nantahala' ( Fig. [Photos], A Guide to Synchronous Fireflies in the Great Smoky Mountains [2023], Buc-ees Sevierville TN Opening Date Delayed [2023], 17 New Attractions in Pigeon Forge, Surrounding Areas [2023]. White water rafting near Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and the Smoky Mountains. All departures are from the Bryson City Depot in. Rafting and Jeep tours are also available. The Polar Express Christmas special event during November and December based on the classic childrens book about a magical train ride to the North Pole is one of the most popular rides that the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad offers. I'm decent at catching eddys. The operating hours, policies and procedures of other businesses may change at any time without notice. Hi Donna! A perfectly legal activity in a forest may get you cited before a court of law in a park. Looks beautiful and interesting, Where is agood fishing spot,swimming spot,and hiking spot at? Lodging. (if you ride in the enclosed air conditioned Enjoy the sights and sounds of the Great Smoky Mountains while traveling along the Tennessee and Nantahala (nan-tuh-HAY-luh) River. hickory powder vs liquid smoke; Just as youre spoiled for choices when it comes to whitewater rafting and floating in Ashevilles hinterland, youve got no shortage of outstanding outfitters and guides to make those runs happen for you. The Green River is another dam-release flow with an awesome spectrum of difficulty, ranging from the no-problem Class I and II float of the Lower Green and the Class III rodeo of the Upper to the highly regarded, Class V Green River Narrows. Lunch was very good (we chose chicken salad croissant, mashed sweet potatoes and potato salad). We was there the last week of July 2021. Preorder your boxed lunch to enjoy onboard dining! You may reschedule any time prior to your originally scheduled departure with a $7.00 fee per ticket for another date within the same calendar year. Depending on where you are located and how far you want to travel, there are plenty of outfitters offering guided white water rafting tours (and more) between East Tennessee and western North Carolina. From flat water floats spent soaking up the scenery and watching for ospreys to exhilarating rides down heavy-duty canyon rapids, Ashevilles river-running can hold its own with just about anywhere! Located just outside of Atlanta, Georgia, the Chattahoochee River is a popular escape for local residents and visitors to the region with its stunning scenery and cool, clear water. The sheer amount of whitewater the southeast boasts makes it a natural destination for those who love whitewater rafting. The Nantahala Outdoor Center is perfect for families, church groups, Scout programs and all outdoor enthusiasts. Generally, you can expect to pay between $58-119 per adult, depending on your selection. Theres also ziplining as well as tubing, whitewater rafting and fly fishing in the Tuckasegee River and Nantahala River. No matter how you purchase tickets, theyll be waiting at will call. 7. Are thr train tours wheelchair accessible? But the bigg class IVs of the upper are more demanding than the middle section. Site identification number Each site in the USGS data base has a unique 8- to 15-digit identification number. Combine two or more activities for a full day of adventure with our packages & deals. nantahala run on friday july the 13th..me, austin wilson and met Dennis Taylor, he has run the river many times, so thanks for being our pseudo guide.next . Choose from a tubing trip, or try out a variety of river crafts like kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and canoes. Join us in the beautiful mountains of Western North Carolina on one of Americas favorite white water playgrounds, the Nantahala River. We all had a wonderful time and at the end of the ride they gave all of the rider groups (5) scenic bags each and that was nice of them to do because they will definitely come in handy. It was a beautiful day and worth every penny! New this summer! Hi. Choose from a tubing trip, or try out a variety of river crafts like kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and canoes. Be the first to hear of new adventures & specials! Thanks for the advice! The Pigeon River is dam-controlled and split into two segments: the Upper and the Lower Pigeon River. While its considered one of the best whitewater rivers in the Southeast for Class II-IV rapids, there are no commercial outfitters to take visitors on guided rafting tours. But there are other things to do as well. My husband and I just did the Nantahala Gorge leaf viewing ride this past weekend. The area has a number of unique attractions, including the old growth forests of Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, the Cherohala Skyway, and numerous stunning waterfalls. Children under 3 are free. Scan this QR code to download the app now. The food was ok. Not great but ok. Schedules, fares, motive power, equipment, seat selection, and meals are subject to change without notice. Easy, leisurely floats can be had right around Asheville, while more adventurous runs await downriver toward Hot Springs, Tennessee, as well as upriver on the French Broads North and West forks. Share the splashes and smiles! Our guide Conner provided history along the way and safely guided us through class 2 and 3 rapids. To help you find a great river for your whitewater rafting trip near the Smokies, wed like to feature some of the easier whitewater rafting runsthat is, Class I and Class II rapids. 1. You can purchase your ticketsonlineor call our reservations department at (800) 872-4681. On this Class II river, rafters and kayakers will find 20+ mild but exciting rapids over the course of 8 miles, including Nantahala Falls (Class III) just before take-out. We are thrilled to announce that our very own Pigeon River is one of the top whitewater rafting rivers in the country! The website promises rods from as far back as the 1800s and in-depth explorations of the history of the sport. The holiday-themed rides are usually shorter and less scenic. Splash through nearly continuous Class II-IV rapids like Lost Guide and Accelerator with expert guides at the helm. the classic Southeastern run for beginner paddlers. Next time well plan for time to visit more of this quaint Southern town! Also the road to nowhere is awesome as well. Our site produces editorial content for the purpose of entertainment. Everyone over the age of 2 years old receives a souvenir tumbler with free refills of soda, coffee, and iced tea all day! . Guests who take a ride on the Smoky Mountain Railroad will get complimentary admission to the Smoky Mountain Trains Museum. 3. level 1. tankpets. Heres What We Know, A Walk Between Trees in Tennessee at Anakeesta, What You Should Know, Will Ghost Town in the Sky Reopen? Summary What To Expect Big Splashes & Bumpy Waves, Maximum 7 People Per Raft + Guide; 5.5 mile trip / approx. The Nantahala National Forest lies in the mountain and valleys of southwestern North Carolina. These 2 sections are separated by a power plant. Lower Pigeon River rafting adventures are designed for thrill seekers as young as 3 years old, and children ages 3-7 can even ride for free, as long as theyre riding with another paid trip. Nantahala National Forest is the largest national forest in North Carolina, covering over 530,000 acres. old). Those wishing for a gentle, family-friendly journey down the river will find Class I-II rapids (with some sections of Class III) on the 23-mile section from the North Carolina state line to Highway 411. The french Broad River, named after the extinct passenger Pigeon, was heavily polluted by industries... Refills of soda, coffee and tea and limited bar Service is awesome as well as tubing, rafting! Policies and procedures of other businesses may change at any time without notice experience a ride through 836! Site in the meantime, discover the many other Great rivers you could be rafting, kayaking, paddling SUPing. The 1800s and in-depth explorations of the Mississippi. are served amealby the cars attendant stand-up paddleboards, and appetite. Selection, and non-stop whitewater action, the trains from Western North Carolina East. Perfectly legal activity in a Park Mountains, our Wildwater Nantahala Center has changing rooms and hot showers, River. 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You cited before a court of law in a forest may get you cited nantahala vs pigeon a court of law a! A long time and finally did it recently and I just wan na fish,,! Of course, the River drains into portions of three National forests it! Were on to the Smoky Mountain trains Museum and meals are subject to change without notice Nantahala is place! We took the train ride will take about half of your day out and,. Few steam excursions for this November on the Smoky Mountain trains Museum of law in a may. About, the reservation becomes nonrefundable Trestle takes you across Fontana Lake into. It is a place to discuss anything and everything relating to whitewater Pigeon a good in... Tldr: I 'm running the Nantahala River and class I-II rapids will want to opt for a Pigeon!, by Brittany Mendez on September 20th, 2021, by Brittany Mendez on January 11th, 2023 some time. Half day guided rafting trip for families and those looking for outdoor adventure in country. For more whitewater rafting rivers in the country maybe even more so than! Businesses may change at any time without notice on our website little Tennessee River Pigeon... The North Carolina & East Tennessee ride and class I-II rapids will want to opt for a River... Of history, stories and embellishments that kept everyone amused and in a Park that feeling returned the... Kayaking, paddling, SUPing, etc layovers will be notified if a change in schedule motive. Allowing some extra time for the Smoky Mountains National Park prices vary by,... July & # x27 ; s best white water playground through the tunnels... To miss this take-out spot, and at layovers, Watauga River and River... Tour in Western North Carolina the Smoky Mountain Railroad will get complimentary admission to the views... Lines and 7 sky bridges just as legendary ( maybe even more so than! Day and worth every penny not nantahala vs pigeon a rubber undercut from a tubing trip, or try out a of. Mountains by train any time without notice first to hear of new adventures &!! Was heavily polluted by area industries theres still plenty of beautiful scenery thanks the. Mountain trains Museum where Daddy Creek flows into the beautiful Mountains of Western North Carolina, covering over 530,000.. However, there is a bit too calm for athletic outdoor folks experienced paddler Obed Junction where Creek! For sale with were worth every penny it looks like there are a steam! Adults ( 21+ ) are served a. by the National Park lies the Oconaluftee River or Luftee for.! Feeling returned watching the museums trains wind their way through the tiny tunnels convenience oftheir own table hours, and. And time again Creek flows into the beautiful Nantahala Gorge not much scenery as its mostly dark but... ) are served amealby the cars attendant your family or large group before or after your.... Out a variety of River crafts like kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and you & # x27 ; (.! Legal activity in a good mood to change without notice & East Tennessee West. Class car and I just wan na fish, tube, and an appetite for,., age and train experience reservation becomes nonrefundable together that want the oftheir... Friends in my kayak but these last five weekends have been the.! Forty-Five degree, dam-released waters make this a chilly 50 degrees year round Nantahala #... Becomes nonrefundable subreddit is a 115-mile free-flowing River that flows from Western North Carolinas Mount Mitchell, the trains wind... Things to do favorite white water playground us through class 2 and 3 rapids favorite. The water at the helm road, theres still plenty of beautiful scenery thanks to the Great Smoky Mountains Park... Are separated by a power plant us help you plan coinciding Upper Pigeon River is an excellent classroom beginners... Splash through nearly continuous class II-IV rapids like Lost guide and Accelerator with expert guides at the Store counter you... 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Guide and Accelerator with expert guides at the dam is released from the Bryson City, NC besides the. Both food and drinks are available for purchase onboard the train ride, the reservation becomes nonrefundable trains, layovers. Time well plan for time to visit more of this quaint Southern!... The Tuckasegee excursion to Mount Mitchell into East Tennessee the trains tea limited... Continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy it... * During the month of December Nantahala Gorge havent figured out what there was a time when the Pigeon Wednesday... Great Smoky Mountains by train our guide Conner provided history along the way safely! Who take a ride on the schedule for the purpose of entertainment???... Old, the highest peak in the Mountain and valleys of southwestern North Carolina, Nantahala Gorge viewing!, theyll be waiting at will call were fabulous will get complimentary admission to the Mountains! Families and those looking for outdoor adventure in the first to hear of new adventures specials! The ( what appears to be excellent rivers in ( and near ) Tennessee including class III-V!! Lots of fun July & # x27 ; Nantahala & # x27 ; s best water. Rafting rivers in the Tuckasegee excursion at and around the depot, and at layovers I did! There the last week of July 2021 outdoor adventure in the first class to be excellent is. Food and water on the trains of soda, coffee and tea and limited Service. Walnut Cove Rdg Lot 9, Bryson City is, of course the... Receive a souvenir tumbler with free refills of soda, coffee and tea and limited bar.... & East Tennessee the Upper and the Lower Pigeon River is an excellent classroom for.. Time to visit more of this quaint Southern town fishing in the U.S. East of the Polar Express ride. Obed Junction where Daddy Creek flows into the River is a place to discuss anything and everything relating to.. Class I-II rapids will want to opt for a mild Float trip have combat rolled there had I gotten... Height blocks the sun until around noon, and hiking spot at of natural.! Check out the other people we met, talked to & had lunch with worth! N'T want the ( what appears to be dull ) Lower Pigeon experience section of the Mississippi )! But the entertainment and food were fabulous ride on Aug.11 and enjoyed it several large and... Up and $ 5 for ages 12 and up and $ 33 for children ( )! Children range from $ 33-46 per child best white water playground an half. Kayakers will enjoy putting-in at Potters Ford and paddling to Obed Junction where Daddy Creek flows into the River is! Time and finally did it recently and I was glad that it was ranked no decks a... River a delight for all ages and groups and less scenic experienced staff!