Week of Rivers

Overview

Each day you and your team will travel to one of these iconic rivers. Be prepared for epic river running, working on maneuvers, and broadening your experience paddling with the guidance of NOC’s professional Padding School Instructor. Learn access points and various lines on rapids on the French Broad, Pigeon, Nolichucky, Ocoee, or Chattooga Rivers – it’s the premier course for boaters with intermediate to advanced paddling skills.

Prerequisite:

Paddlers must have a reliable combat roll and proficient boat control in class II-III prior to registering for this course.

French Broad: Known for being one of the oldest rivers in the world and located in Pisgah National Forest the French Broad offers spectacular views. This class III river offers both a big water feel and a technical creek-like aspect of river running.

Pigeon River:  Located on the boundary of the Great Smoky National Park this continuous class III river challenges paddlers to boat scout and pick their lines through numerous stretches of exciting whitewater.

Chattooga River: Known as one of the Nation’s premier whitewater destinations, the Chattooga River runs along the border between South Carolina and Georgia. A designated Wild and Scenic River, for its protected quarter-mile corridor on either side the Chattooga brings big whitewater and views to match. This remote class III river offers a creek-like and technical aspect of river running.

Ocoee River: This classic Southeastern River is a must-do for any kayaker who is looking for continuous class III whitewater, big waves, and lots of river features to play on. The Ocoee provides plenty of play spots, and this workshop will focus on those popular areas and running big continuous rapids.

Nolichucky River: Discover this hidden gem in one of the deepest gorges east of the Mississippi! The Nolichucky River is as beautiful and scenic as it is exciting and powerful. This remote class III/IV river offers fun lines and big challenges for river runners and those who want to play on the river

What to Expect

Participants will travel to a different river every day for five days. A NOC guide will handle all logistics, transportation, and photo-taking, as well as provide guidance on the river for improving paddling technique and running lines. Daily trips depart from the NOC main campus on the Nantahala River.