When to Visit

Fall

Overview
Trips
Lodging

Explore Leaf Season in the Mountains

Are you eager to experience the stunning autumnal landscapes of the mountains? Journey through the Pisgah or Nantahala National Forests for some whitewater rafting, or encounter extraordinary wildlife along the wild and scenic Chattooga River. Each excursion presents a chance to witness awe-inspiring views—from dramatic rock formations to expansive, rolling mountains and secluded waterfalls.

NOC provides whitewater adventures on various rivers in the Southeast, allowing you to enjoy the remarkable fall colors from a raft on the French Broad, Chattooga, Ocoee, and Nantahala Rivers. Alternatively, you can take in 360-degree vistas as you glide high above the Smokies on our mountaintop zip line experience near Bryson City, Tennessee. No matter which activity you pick, autumn is an excellent time to explore Western North Carolina.

Fall Trips

Guided

Moderate

Mountaintop Zip Line Tour

Bryson City, NC

from $134

4.95 (197 Reviews)

Fly through the Smoky Mountain skies on NOC’s Mountaintop Zip Line Tour! With almost two miles of zip lines from treetop to treetop, this trip is considered a premier zip line experience in the mountains of North Carolina.

Featured

Package

Guided

Easy-Moderate

River to Ridge: Rafting and Zip Line Package

Bryson City, NC

from $125

4.97 (105 Reviews)

Combine two of our most popular adventures and save with our River to Ridge package! Fly on over two miles of zip lines through the Smoky Mountain skies on NOC’s Mountaintop Zip Line Tour! Combine with a guided whitewater rafting trip for a day of adventure you’ll never forget!

Package

Guided

Easy

Nantahala River Rafting: Fully Guided in North Carolina

Bryson City, NC

from $60

4.93 (830 Reviews)

White water rafting in North Carolina is a classic family friendly trip down the iconic mountain river: The Nantahala River. This popular rafting trip is perfect for families and paddlers of any skill level.

Featured

Guided

Moderate-Challenging

Tsali Guided Mountain Biking

Bryson City, NC

from $99

3.50 (2 Reviews)

Experience fun trails and scenic overlooks with a guided mountain biking tour on Tsali! Just a short drive from our main campus, guests will receive top of the line equipment, instruction and guidance.

French Broad River Rafting: Full-Day (with Lunch)

Marshall, NC

from $100

4.97 (58 Reviews)

This full-day trip offers family-friendly French Broad river rafting with fun rapids, scenic mountain views of Pisgah Forest, and a riverside lunch. One of the best things to do in Asheville, NC!

8+ Years Old

March-October

5-8 Hours Long

Featured

Package

Guided

Easy-Moderate

Moderate

Pedal & Paddle: Guided Rafting & Mountain Biking Package

Bryson City, NC

from $139

Combine two of our most popular guided adventures rafting the Nantahala River and mountain biking on local Tsali Trails in this full day of fun!

Chattooga Section 4 River Rafting (with Lunch)

Clayton, GA

from $140

4.97 (191 Reviews)

Experience one of the most iconic whitewater rafting trips in the Southeast on the Wild and Scenic Chattooga River. Natural beauty and thrilling rapids make this the “#1 Thing Every Southerner Ought to Do”.

12+ Years Old

March-October

5-6 Hours Long

Chattooga River Rafting Class 4 Rapids down a yellow Nantahala Outdoor Center Raft.

Featured

Guided

Moderate

Ocoee River Rafting: Middle Ocoee

Benton, TN

from $50

4.98 (180 Reviews)

The Middle Ocoee is “America’s most popular river trip” with five miles of exciting rapids and whitewater action. This half day guided trip is perfect for anyone looking for adventure in Tennessee.

12+ Years Old

April-October

3-3.5 Hours Long