Charlotte, NC

Outdoor Adventure Near Charlotte, North Carolina

If you’re looking for outdoor adventure outside of Charlotte, look no further than Nantahala Outdoor Center! For over 40 years, visitors and Charlotte residents have enjoyed escaping to NOC for family-friendly whitewater rafting and outdoor adventure on several rivers in the southeast. Whether you are looking for a mild float or an exhilarating paddle through Class IV rapids, NOC has a trip for you to adventure at your own pace.

Just a few hours drive west, through peaceful, winding mountain roads, is the scenic Nantahala River Gorge. Enjoy 500 acres of spectacular mountain adventure from the classic guided whitewater rafting trip, mountain top zip lining, mountain biking, and more. In between activities, you can shop at one of NOC’s four retail stores including NOC’s flagship Outfitter’s Store, eat at NOC’s two riverfront restaurants, and even stay in a cabin adjoining the Appalachian Trail.

For visitors staying in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge, NOC offers float or whitewater trips down the Pigeon River. The Upper Pigeon is perfect for kids ages eight and up offering lots of splashes and smiles, while the Lower Pigeon is perfect for young children or those looking for a milder, scenic float trip.

For adventure seekers, the Wild and Scenic Chattooga River is only a few hours outside of Charlotte, and a bucket list must-do!

With access to seven rivers in the southeast, NOC offers so many ways to enjoy the outdoors at any experience or adventure level.