Calmer rafting with mellow rapids on the Lower Nolichucky River, just 45 min. to Asheville, NC. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the view! Imagine a relaxed family outing with time to swim, a chance to see Blue Herons, and spectacular mountains along the way! Try an inflatable ducky for even more adventure!
No! This is the easiest float trip offered by USA Raft Adventure Resort. We often take first time rafters on this trip and guests should choose the trip that is best suited to their ability and comfort levels.
Our Lower Nolichucky raft trip is for ages 4+ and Upper Nolichucky raft trip for ages 10+.
There is a 100% chance you will at least get splashed.
Any moisture wicking, athletic wear or yoga type material, polyester and tri-blend fabrics that are light and offer sun protection are acceptable. Swimsuits are okay but bikinis are not advisable. Cotton or 100 percent wool material is not recommended. Shoes that strap to your feet are a must, NO flip-flops or Crocs.
The Lower Nolichucky trip ends near the Pyrahna Kayaks facility, about a 15 minute shuttle from The Resort. Guests are shuttled back to The Resort from the take out. Enjoy a beverage at the Take Out Tavern and food from the One Love Food Truck after your adventures on the river! Guests can choose to carpool or take a complimentary shuttle between the Resort and Red Banks.
Any rafting guests that are on the river can park one vehicle at The Resort property. Additional vehicles are required to be parked at the Red Banks Campground. Guests can carpool or take a complimentary shuttle between the Resort and Red Banks. Here is a Google Map with our Red Banks Campground location.
Sandals with straps, water shoes or tennis shoes work best! Crocs and sandals without straps are not permitted.
We sell water shoes in our camp store and outpost, however, sizing can be limited.
Not far! Our Lower Nolichucky trip meets at Red Banks Campground and there is a short shuttle to The Resort to put in. The trip takes out downstream from our Red Banks Campground, and the shuttle back is less than 20 minutes.
It depends on your trip and the river water level, but typically between 3-5 hours. Ask the reservationist or your guide for more information on the day of your trip.
While we do our best to accommodate each and every group, we cannot guarantee groups over 4 will be in the same boat. We prioritize guests’ safety above all, and guest counts can vary depending on the water level.
Yes, we raft rain or shine! No refunds will be issued for inclement weather that we have no control over.
No, all guests must use our provided commercial approved rafting PFDs.
Yes! After getting back to your car at Red Banks Campground, you are welcome to park for free at The Resort to visit the Take Out Tavern and One Love Food Truck after your rafting trip.
(Generally) No. Liability waivers are typically completed by legal guardians only. If you are with a Summer Camp or Youth Group, Trip Leaders and Chaperones can sign the waivers provided certain conditions are met, please contact us to discuss your specific questions.
The Nolichucky River is a rare free-flowing river in the Eastern United States. There are no dams along its entire length, and this beautiful river is also a nominee for National Wild and Scenic designation. The water level can vary because of the river’s dependence entirely on natural precipitation. The Nolichucky offers a special experience due to its pristine natural state, and the trip offers one of the most scenic rafting trips one can find.
Absolutely no alcoholic beverages are permitted on any of our activities. In addition, anyone under the influence will not be permitted on the rafting trip.
Also please note that dogs are not permitted to be left unsupervised in any lodging units, and please plan accordingly for your rafting trip.
