Stay. Play. Dine. Shop.
Nantahala River, NC
Outdoor Adventures, Lodging, & Dining on the Nantahala River
Nantahala Outdoor Center is Western North Carolina’s premier outdoor resort — a 500-acre mountain retreat where the Appalachian Trail meets the Nantahala River, just minutes from the Great Smoky Mountains. A beloved destination since 1972, NOC is the perfect basecamp for families, couples, and adventurers of all skill levels.
Book a cabin in the scenic Nantahala Gorge and spend your days on the water or in the mountains. Choose from white water rafting on the Nantahala River, stand up paddleboarding on Fontana Lake, zip lining, mountain biking, and hiking in Nantahala National Forest. After your adventures, grab a bite at Big Wesser Riverside Pub or River’s End Restaurant, shop the Outfitter’s Store, and settle into your mountain lodge for the night.
Whether you’re planning a weekend mountain getaway, a family resort vacation, or a quick afternoon escape, NOC delivers unforgettable experiences in the heart of the Smokies. Browse our vacation packages, events calendar, and 3-Day Nantahala Gorge Itinerary to plan your stay.
Your Home Base in the Mountains
Skip the drive and stay where the adventure is. NOC’s mountain lodging puts you steps from the Nantahala River, trailheads, dining, and activities so you can wake up and go. Cabins, bungalows, micro-lodge rooms, and campsites available.
Rafting, Zip Lining, & Adventure Activities in the Nantahala Gorge
From exciting whitewater rafting to peaceful paddling trips, treetop zipline tours to guided hikes and mountain biking, NOC offers unforgettable outdoor experiences for every age and adventure level. Whether you’re chasing thrills or soaking up the scenery, our expert guides and stunning surroundings make it easy to dive into the adventure of a lifetime.
Riverside Restaurants on the Nantahala River
Refuel riverside! Kick back and savor the moment at NOC’s riverside restaurants. From gourmet pub fare at River’s End to laid-back sandwiches and cold drinks at Big Wesser, we’ve got your cravings covered. Don’t forget to grab a sweet treat or freshly brewed at Slow Joe’s Donut Bus!
Shop Outdoor Gear & Apparel
Whether you’re hitting the river or heading home, the NOC Outfitter’s Store has everything you need. Shop paddling gear, hiking essentials, outdoor apparel, and NOC-branded souvenirs — plus last-minute supplies for whatever the day brings.
Nantahala River Vacation Packages
Make the most of your Nantahala River getaway with an NOC vacation package. Bundle whitewater rafting, zip lining, mountain biking, and lodging for the best value on your North Carolina adventure. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, group retreat, or couples weekend, we have a package to fit your trip.
Build the Perfect Trip
Let NOC’s adventure experts help you build the perfect trip!
Discounts
Rinse & Repeat Discount
Raft more, save more! Book 2 NOC whitewater rafting trips on different rivers and save 10%, book 3 different rivers and save 15%, or book 4 different rivers and save 20% on your entire rafting reservation.Second Activity Discount
More adventure, more savings! Save an extra 10% when you book a second qualifying activity at our Nantahala River adventure campus.Stay & Play Discount
Adventure at your doorstep! Stay in NOC lodging and save 10% on outdoor activities at our 500-acre Nantahala Adventure Resort and outposts. Choose from bungalows, cabins, and more!Leaders in Outdoor Adventure Since 1972
Legacy in Adventure & Instruction
Leading and innovating in adventure, instruction and education since 1972.
Memorable Outdoor Experiences
Specializing in quality experiences, gear and guidance for all ability levels.
Connecting People & Places
Connecting people and places through fun, engaging and authentic interactions.