USA Raft Adventure Resort is located just off the Appalachian Trail! Our Resort property is located at mile marker ~345.5 and is accessible from a short .2 mile blue blaze trail. We warmly welcome Appalachian Trail hikers and offer most amenities to help them along their journeys including private showers, potable water, and occasional shuttles to Erwin TN for resupplies. We find that hikers also enjoy the Take Out Tavern!
One of the most notable trails in the world, this 2180+ mile long public footpath traverses the rugged Appalachian Mountains from it’s Southern Terminus at Springer Mountain GA to it’s Northern Terminus at Mount Katahdin ME. Every year, tens of thousands of hikers attempt thru-hikes of the entire trail, with only a small fraction succeeding in walking the entire length at once. Our team at USA Raft Adventure Resort is proud to be a part of many journeys for both thru-hikers and section hikers alike!
Guests can also enjoy hikes on the Appalachian Trail directly from the property. A 2 mile hike Southbound on the AT will take you to the Nolichucky Gorge Overlook, one of the best views in Eastern Tennessee! Heading Northbound the trail follows the babbling Jones Branch creek, eventually reaching the ridgeline before reaching Beauty Spot in about 10 miles, a grassy bald with 360 degree views.
Shuttles run regularly during Peak Season between the Jones Branch Resort and Red Banks Campground. We can also arrange inter-property shuttles as needed.
For private boaters paddling the Nolichucky River Gorge we offer drivers who can ride with you to the Poplar, NC, river access and drive your vehicle back to the Jones Branch Resort.
For private boaters paddling the Lower Nolichucky River
For Appalachian Trail thru hikers, we offer slack pack shuttles Northbound and Southbound on the Appalachian Trail. We also offer shuttles for hikers to resupply in Erwin TN. Please give us a call at 1-800-USA-RAFT to schedule any shuttles in advance.
Yes! The Resort is located directly off the Appalachian Trail and we welcome all hikers.
We have limited parking at The Resort. Parking is only available to our lodging guests, day-use guests, and guests visiting the One Love Food Truck and Take Out Tavern. Appalachian Trail parking for overnight excursions is available at Red Banks, also at the Appalachian Trail trailhead near the bridge over the Nolichucky River.
No! The Appalachian Trail is open to foot traffic only.
