Wishlist

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When to Visit

Fall

Overview
Trips
Lodging

Explore Leaf Season in the Mountains

Looking for a way to explore the gorgeous scenes of fall in the mountains? Travel through the Pisgah or Nantahala National Forests whitewater rafting, or discover stunning wildlife on the wild and scenic Chattooga River. Each trip offers a unique opportunity to view breathtaking scenery – from dramatic rock faces to picturesque rolling mountains and hidden waterfalls.

NOC offers whitewater trips on several rivers in the southeast to experience the spectacular scenic fall colors from a raft on the French Broad, Chattooga, Ocoee, and Nantahala Rivers. Or enjoy the 360-degree views while you soar high above the Smokies on our mountain top zip line experience just outside of Bryson City, Tennessee. Whatever adventure you choose, the fall is one of the best times to visit Western North Carolina.

Fall Trips

Mountaintop Zip Line Tour

Bryson City, NC

5 (181 Reviews / 6 Q&As)

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.

3-3.5 Hours Long

women zip lining in mid air with the green, orange, and red trees on the horizon

Package

River to Ridge: Rafting and Zip Line Package

Bryson City, NC

5 (97 Reviews / 6 Q&As)

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!

Guest on zip line on the Mountaintop Zip Line Tour

Featured

Package

Nantahala River Rafting: Fully Guided in North Carolina

Bryson City, NC

5 (616 Reviews / 25 Q&As)

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.

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Tsali Guided Mountain Biking

Bryson City, NC

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 along with a trailside snack!

Mountain biker riding bike.

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

5 (54 Reviews / 5 Q&As)

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!

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Package

Pedal & Paddle: Guided Rafting & Mountain Biking Package

Bryson City, NC

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!

Height: 4'11"-6'5"

two mountain bikers look out over fontana lake with mountains in the background

Featured

Moderate-Challenging

Chattooga River Rafting: Section IV (with Lunch)

5 (178 Reviews / 7 Q&As)

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”.

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

Ocoee River Rafting: Middle Ocoee

5 (157 Reviews / 9 Q&As)

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.

3-3.5 Hours Long

Group rafting on the Ocoee River Rafting: Middle Ocoee trip

Flint Ridge Guided Mountain Biking

Bryson City, NC

Ride the local trails with an experienced NOC Guide!

Experience fun trails and scenic overlooks with a guided mountain biking tour on Flint Ridge located right on our main campus!

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