The Nantahala Gorge

All Good Things are Wild and Free

THE NANTAHALA GORGE

The gorge is the epicenter of outdoor adventure. Here, people of all ages can enjoy whitewater rafting and kayaking, zip lining, fishing, biking, jeep tours, horseback riding, hiking and gem mining. The 200,000 paddlers who come every year make the Nantahala River one of the most popular whitewater rafting rivers in the Southeast. With mostly Class I and II rapids, it is a great place for family fun; rafters as young as 6 years of age (or 60 pounds) can raft on the Nantahala River. A drive on U.S. 19 through the Gorge is worthwhile for scenic views, restaurants, picnic areas, and pull-offs to watch the rafters on the rushing waters.