Press Releases

Bryson City, NC–October 22, 2025–Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) invites guests to celebrate the end of the adventure season at its Guest Appreciation Festival (GAF), taking place from October 24 at 11 AM through October 26 at 8 PM.

Friday 2–7 PM | Saturday 9 AM–7 PM | Sunday 8 AM–Until Close

Shop handcrafted art and goods from regional makers at this hauntingly charming market of local talent. (Vendor spaces are currently full; join the waitlist online.)

Outfitter’s Store End-of-Season Sale + Flash Tattoos
Score major markdowns on outdoor gear and apparel during the Outfitter’s Store sale and tent pop-up and get “river ink” with outdoor-themed flash tattoos by award-winning artist Amberly Cook (Saturday & Sunday upstairs in the store). Be sure to stop by the Asheville Tea Company booth for a taste of locally crafted blends.

NRC Kayak Cross Throw Down
Witness the action at the Nantahala Racing Club’s inaugural GAF Kayak Cross event! Competitors will launch from the ramp above Founder’s Bridge and race through World’s Hole in a fast-paced bracket format with upstream and downstream gates and a mandatory roll zone.

Live Music
Friday 3–6 PM | Saturday 11 AM–6 PM

Enjoy free live performances from regional favorites including Christina Chandler, Laura Thurston, and Nick & Brew.

Spooky Fun & Family Activities
Celebrate Halloween mountain-style with a costume contest in the Backyard of Big Wesser, face painting, and trick-or-treating across campus stores, with candy and surprises hidden in every corner.

Partner & Guide Recruitment Booths
Learn how to join the outdoor industry! Connect with Cataloochee Ski Resort, SOLO, and NOC Raft Guide School at the Partner & Recruitment Booths by Big Wesser and Founder’s Bridge.

Join Us at GAF 2025
From the Used Gear Graveyard to haunted happy hours, the 2025 Guest Appreciation Festival promises a weekend packed with spirit, savings, and adventure.

WHO: Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC)

WHAT: This December, Nantahala Outdoor Center invites you to join two festive holiday events in Bryson City and Gatlinburg. From local shopping to family-friendly activities, these events are sure to bring holiday cheer to the whole family!

Merry Market at NOC Bryson City

• When: Saturday, December 7, 2024, 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
• Where: NOC Outfitters Store, 13077 Hwy. 19 W., Bryson City, NC 28713
• Details: Celebrate the holiday season in the heart of Bryson City with a day of local shopping. Over a dozen artisan vendors will offer handmade gifts, festive treats, and more, perfect for holiday shopping. Afterward, warm up with a delicious meal and drinks at Rivers End Restaurant.

Smoky Mountain Holiday Magic with L.L. Bean in Gatlinburg

• When: Saturday, December 14, 2024, 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Where: NOC Gatlinburg, 1138 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
• Details:
  • Experience the magic of the holidays at NOC Gatlinburg’s three-story flagship location near Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Highlights include:
  • Local artisan shopping and outdoor gear from top brands
  • Complimentary gifts for the first 30 L.L. Bean customers
  • Family-friendly reindeer games: indoor climbing wall, rope bridge, and bear cave
  • Holiday arts and crafts (11:00 AM – 2:00 PM)
  • Hot chocolate and treats from Tina’s Delights
  • Scavenger hunts, giveaways, and more!

ADDITIONAL INFO:

For event details and updates, visit:

• Merry Market at NOC Bryson City
• Smoky Mountain Holiday Magic with L.L. Bean in Gatlinburg

CONTACT:

For more information, contact:

Cat Grygiel
Pineapple Public Relations
Email: cgrygiel@pineapple-pr.com

Bryson City, NC – October 16, 2024 – Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) has announced that its annual Guest Appreciation Festival (GAF) will take place as planned, from October 25, 11:00 AM – October 27, 8:00 PM.

For more than 30 years, GAF has brought together outdoor enthusiasts, local artisans, and small businesses for a weekend of celebration, and this year, the event holds even greater significance in the wake of Hurricane Helene’s devastation.

Support Local Businesses & Hurricane Relief Fundraiser

In addition to the event’s many activities, this year’s GAF will include a special Hurricane Relief & Rebuild Fundraiser. The Wesser Foundation, established by NOC guide and board member Jess Austin and supported by NOC’s current and former guides, will generously match donations made at the Outfitter’s and General Stores during GAF weekend, up to $10,000. All contributions will directly support recovery and rebuilding efforts in the river towns affected by Hurricane Helene.

GAF 2024: Activities and Entertainment

Attendees can look forward to an array of activities and events, including:

• Used Boats and Gear Sales
• Live Music & Entertainment
• The Outfitter’s Store Closeout Sale Tent
• Used Gear Marketplace
• Artisan Market
• Family Fun: Magician, Tarot Card Reader, Face Painting, and Halloween Festivities
• Outdoor Adventures: Last chance of the season for rafting, ziplining, and mountain biking
• Wickliffe W. Walker Book Signing & Author Q&A: Walker, a pioneer in whitewater paddling and a U.S. Slalom Olympian, will be signing copies of his book Torrents As Yet Unknown on Saturday, October 26, at 5 PM.

Live Music Schedule

• Friday, October 25: Christina Chandler, 3-6 PM at Big Wesser
• Saturday, October 26: Funck & Hill, 11 AM-2 PM; Log Noggins, 3-6 PM

For a full schedule of events, visit noc.com/events/gaf.

Nantahala Racing Club Citizen’s Slalom Race

The weekend also features the Nantahala Racing Club Citizen’s Slalom Race, an exciting slalom competition on the Nantahala River. Open to paddlers of all ages and skill levels, the race will begin just above the NOC Founder’s Bridge and run through the iconic Worlds Hole. Participants can register online or on-site.

Join Us at GAF 2024

Whether you’re shopping for used gear, enjoying live music, or contributing to the Hurricane Relief efforts, NOC’s Guest Appreciation Festival promises to be a fun-filled, meaningful weekend. With autumn in full swing, there’s no better time to gather, support local businesses, and celebrate our shared love of the outdoors.

For more information or to register for the slalom race, visit noc.com or contact nocevents@noc.com.

About Nantahala Outdoor Center

Nantahala Outdoor Center is the nation’s largest outdoor recreation company with operations spanning Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. Over a million guests visit NOC annually to embark on a diverse collection of more than 120 different river and land-based itineraries, learn to kayak at NOC’s world-renowned Paddling School, travel abroad with NOC’s Adventure Travel program, test the latest outdoor gear and shop at its LEED-certified flagship retail stores or enjoy NOC’s resort amenities such as its three restaurants and multi-tiered lodging. The New York Times has recognized NOC as the “Nation’s Premiere Paddling School,” “The Best Place to Learn” by Outside, and as “One of the Best Outfitters on Earth” by National Geographic Adventure.

Media Contact: 

Cat Grygiel
Pineapple Public Relations
518-225-0169
cgrygiel@pineapple-pr.com

BRYSON CITY, NC (Oct. 11, 2024) – As communities across North Carolina continue to recover from the impact of Hurricane Helene, we are pleased to share that Nantahala Outdoor Center’s (NOC) main campus in Bryson City is fully operational. Adventures, including rafting, kayaking and zip-lining, have resumed as of Thursday, Oct. 10.

In addition to welcoming guests, NOC is serving as a donation drop point to support impacted areas with essential supplies.

We invite guests to visit responsibly and explore the open areas, supporting local businesses as they recover. For travel, please check the latest road conditions at Drivenc.gov to ensure safe routes.

NOC Bryson City Adventures and Services
NOC’s Bryson City location, including Nantahala River Gorge adventures, lodging, and dining, is open and welcoming visitors. Available services include:

• Nantahala Fully Guided Trips (rafting, kayaking, rentals)
• Nantahala Zip Lines & Aerials
• Rivers End Restaurant
• The Outfitter’s Store
• The General Store
• Nantahala River Cabins & Lodging

Bryson City and the surrounding region, including local businesses like the Smoky Mountain Railroad, are open and ready for visitors. Responsible tourism is one way to help support the community’s recovery.

Other Open NOC Locations
NOC is also operating at:

• Ocoee River Rafting Trips – Benton, Tenn.
• NOC Gatlinburg – Gatlinburg, Tenn.
• Chattooga River Rafting & Outpost – Mountain Rest, S.C.
• Paddling School
• Wilderness Medicine SOLO Southeast

Temporarily Closed Locations
Some locations remain closed as recovery efforts continue:

• French Broad Rafting & Outpost – Marshall, N.C.
• NOC Asheville at the Grove Park Inn – Asheville, N.C.

For travelers with existing bookings at closed locations, please contact our reservations team at 800-232-7238 or email reservations@noc.com for assistance.

Support for Local Communities
NOC is supporting nearby mountain towns by accepting donations at the Bryson City Outfitter’s Store. Essential items like non-perishable food, bottled water, and cleaning supplies can be dropped off at the store. In-store purchases can be rounded up at checkout, with proceeds going directly to hurricane relief.

For a full list of items needed, visit the NOC Operations Update Page.

Thank you for your continued support as we help our communities recover.

BRYSON CITY, NC (Sept. 30, 2024) – In response to Hurricane Helene and the resulting emergency road closures ordered by Governor Cooper in North Carolina, Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) is temporarily suspending all rafting and adventure operations. This suspension will remain in effect until road closures are lifted and supply chains return to normal.

AVAILABILITY FOR EMERGENCY RESPONDERS:
NOC’s retail, lodging, and the River’s End Restaurant will remain open to local residents, emergency responders, and staff in need. Please note that the restaurant may operate with limited services due to potential delays in food deliveries.

NOC’s Bryson City campus has power, and Wi-Fi is available for those who may need access during this time.

DETAILS:

• Suspension of Operations: All rafting and adventure activities are suspended until further notice.
• Continued Services: Retail, Lodging, and Rivers End Restaurant remain open with limited operations.
• Support for Emergency Responders: Facilities available for locals, emergency personnel, and staff in need.

CONTACT:
The suspension will remain in effect until road closures are lifted and supply chains normalize. NOC is closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as they become available.

For ongoing updates and further information, visit NOC.com or check DriveNC.gov for the latest on road conditions.

WHERE:
Nantahala Outdoor Center
13077 Highway 19 West, Bryson City, NC 28713

BRYSON CITY, N.C., Aug. 13, 2024 — Join the Bryson City community in celebrating the homecoming of Evy Leibfarth, the 20-year-old athlete who recently competed in three events at the 2024 Paris Olympics, earning a bronze medal in the women’s kayak slalom—a historic achievement for both her and the Bryson City area, including the Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC), where she trained.

The Olympic homecoming celebration will include a paddle with Evy at NOC from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., followed by a parade/processional through downtown Bryson City and a ceremony featuring remarks from local dignitaries, including city officials, former NOC Olympians and local community members. The event will also feature a special Q&A session with Evy Leibfarth and recognition of other Olympians and notable attendees.

Leibfarth’s Olympic journey underscores the world-class training and outdoor sports leadership provided by NOC, where she honed the foundations of her paddling skills as a child. Her journey began in Bryson City, where she started competing at the age of 12. Located where the Appalachian Trail meets the Nantahala River, NOC spans 500 acres and has been a cornerstone of outdoor adventure in the region for over 50 years. The center is renowned not only for nurturing Olympic talent like Evy but also as a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as whitewater rafting, kayaking, hiking and more.

WHAT: Olympic Homecoming Celebration for Evy Leibfarth

UPDATED TIMELINE:

Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2024

• 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.: Paddle with Evy at NOC (1p.m. – 2p.m. reserved for interviews with EVY/NOC)
• 5 p.m.: Street Closures
• 6 p.m.: Parade/Processional Start
• 6:45 p.m.: Homecoming Ceremony
• 7:30 p.m. Autographs and Meet & Greet

WHERE:

• Paddle with Evy: Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) – 13077 Hwy. 19 W., Bryson City, NC 28713
• Parade/Ceremony: Downtown Bryson City – Everett Street to Main Street Intersection

WHO:

• Downtown Bryson City
• Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC)
• Evy Leibfarth, 2024 Olympian
• Local Dignitaries & City Officials

MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES:

• Capture footage of the processional and community celebration.
• Interviews with Evy Leibfarth, local dignitaries and representatives from NOC.
• Document the celebratory atmosphere as Bryson City welcomes back its Olympic bronze medalist.

WHAT: Reuniting America by Fostering Trust (R.A.F.T.) for America Challenge, a project of Team Democracy, has partnered with the Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) to host a unique whitewater rafting experience. This event brings together individuals from diverse political perspectives and various industries to foster connection and unity through a shared outdoor adventure.

WHEN:
Monday, August 12, 2024
Time: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Pre-trip Interviews: 9:50 a.m.
Post-trip Q&A: Approximately 3:15 p.m.

R.A.F.T. America Challenge at NOC Tentative Schedule:

• 9:00 a.m.: Arrival at Nantahala Outdoor Center, and Introductions
• 9:30 a.m.: Introduction of R.A.F.T. for America, Ken Powley
• 9:40 a.m.: Introduction of Outfitting and Nantahala National Forest, Outfitters
• 9:50 a.m.: Pre-Trip interviews
• 10:30 a.m.: Pre-Trip Orientation & bus trip
• 11:30 a.m.: Launch
• 12:15 p.m.: Lunch at Ferebee Park
• 1:00 p.m./1:15 p.m.: Launch
• 2:30 p.m.: Take-out, get dry
• 3:15 p.m.: Hors d’oeuvres and post-trip Q&A, interviews, etc.
• 5:30 p.m.: Appreciations and departure

WHERE:
Nantahala Outdoor Center
13077 US-19
Bryson City, NC 28713

WHO:
NOC, R.A.F.T. America and Team Democracy

DETAILS:
R.A.F.T. America is an initiative by Team Democracy designed to bridge divides in America by fostering trust and mutual understanding through shared experiences. By bringing together people from various backgrounds—political, professional and personal—R.A.F.T. America seeks to promote dialogue, collaboration, and unity. This bipartisan rafting event at NOC is part of a broader effort to create spaces where individuals can connect, communicate and build trust, all while enjoying the beauty of the outdoors.

Tentative RSVP list:

• S. Senator Thom Tillis
• Robin Ramsey, Regional Representative for Sen. Tillis
• Kyle Bridges, State Director for U.S. Sen. Budd
• Ryan Dierker, Legislative Director for U.S. Rep. Chuck Edwards
• Tommy Laughter, District Field Representative for U.S. Rep. Chuck Edwards
• Lake Silver, Field Representative for U.S. Rep. Chuck Edwards
• Cody Sims, Senior Legislative Assistant for U.S. Sen. Tim Scott
• Danielle Gibbs, Deputy State Director for U.S. Sen Tim Scott
• C. State Senator Kevin Corbin
• C. State Rep. Mike Clampitt
• C. State Rep. Caleb Rudow
• A. State Rep. Shawn Still
• Former Charlotte Mayor Jennifer Roberts
• Amy Allison, Director NC Outdoor Recreation Economy
• Ken Powley, Executive Director of R.A.F.T. for America
• Julie Thorner and Team, Liquid Spark Marketing
• Representatives from Nantahala River Outfitters Nantahala Outdoor Center, Wildwater Ltd., and Endless River Adventures
• Community Leaders & Members
• Additional NC State elected officials have been invited, participation to be determined.

MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES:

• Interview Ken Powley, Executive Director for R.A.F.T. for America, and Steven Foy, Director of Outpost Operations at NOC.

Bryson City, NC–Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC), a leader in outdoor adventure since 1972, ispleased to announce the grand opening of The Hemlocks. Now welcoming guests, this upscale lodgingfeatures elegant bungalow-style accommodations perched on a scenic Smoky Mountain ridgeline,offering a truly elevated mountain getaway experience.Designed for travelers seeking adventure coupled with refined comfort, The Hemlocks introduces eightthoughtfully appointed units, including one-and two-bedroom bungalows, each with private decks,kitchenettes, modern fireplaces and premium amenities such as locally sourced Pisgah Coffee andHazelwood Soap Co. toiletries. Select bungalows stand elevated on wood pilings, harmonizing innovativeconstruction with minimal environmental impact.

Guests at The Hemlocks enjoy immediate access to over 100 curated adventure itineraries, includingwhitewater rafting, hiking trails like the nearby Appalachian Trail and leisurely paddling on Lake Fontana.On-site dining, shopping and gear rentals enhance the immersive outdoor experience.The opening of The Hemlocks marks the first step in NOC’s comprehensive campus expansion plan,focusing on blending luxury accommodations with authentic outdoor experiences.

The Leaders in Outdoor Adventure Partner with Award-Winning Mineral Sunscreen Brand 

BRYSON CITY, NC (March X, 2024) — Nantahala Outdoor Center (“NOC”), the Leaders in Outdoor Adventure since 1972, are excited to announce Blue Lizard® Australian Sunscreen (“Blue Lizard”) as the official sunscreen of NOC. Blue Lizard products will now be available for sale at all NOC retail locations and will also be used by NOC employees and rafting guides to protect their skin as they work outdoors. 

“This partnership is an amazing fit for NOC,” said Colin McBeath, President of NOC. “With our emphasis on safety outdoors, Blue Lizard is helping us fulfill a major part of our core values. This partnership ensures we’re continuing to educate and keep people protected from the sun, while exposing them to all the adventure the outdoors can offer.”

Blue Lizard is dedicated to providing quality, mineral sun-protection options that are safer for both consumers and the environment, which makes the brand an ideal partner for providing broad spectrum sun protection to our guests and staff. As part of the partnership, guests can expect to see sun care tips posted throughout NOC’s main campus in Bryson City, NC, as well as on its website and social media channels throughout the year. There are also special giveaways planned throughout the season.

“We’re thrilled to be the official sunscreen partner for NOC,” said Michael Morris, Brand Director of Suncare at Crown Laboratories. “It’s so important for people to have proper sun protection, especially when spending extended periods of time outdoors, both in and out of the water. Blue Lizard’s environmentally friendly, water-resistant formulations are the perfect choice for guests enjoying all that NOC has to offer.”

Blue Lizard’s products are manufactured regionally by Crown Laboratories, Inc. in Johnson City, TN. Their dermatologist-recommended products are mineral-based, environmentally friendly, easy-to-use, and water resistant. 

For more information on the Nantahala Outdoor Center and its offerings, visit www.noc.com. For additional information on Blue Lizard, visit www.bluelizardsunscreen.com. 

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About Nantahala Outdoor Center 

Nantahala Outdoor Center is the nation’s largest outdoor recreation company with operations spanning Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. Over a million guests visit NOC annually to embark on a diverse collection of more than 120 different river and land-based itineraries, learn to kayak at NOC’s world-renowned Paddling School, travel abroad with NOC’s Adventure Travel program, test the latest outdoor gear and shop at its LEED-certified flagship retail stores or enjoy NOC’s resort amenities such as its three restaurants and multi-tiered lodging. NOC has been recognized by The New York Times as the “Nation’s Premiere Paddling School,” “The Best Place to Learn” by Outside, and as “One of the Best Outfitters on Earth” by National Geographic Adventure. 

About Blue Lizard® 

For over 20 years, Blue Lizard has been trusted by dermatologists and pediatricians to deliver highly effective and gentle mineral-based sunscreens for head-to-toe sun protection. All Blue Lizard sunscreens are free from Oxybenzone and Octinoxate, making the entire line of sunscreens reef friendly. Featuring Smart Bottle® and Smart Cap® Technology, Blue Lizard product packaging also lets consumers know when harmful UV rays are present and reminds them to reapply. For more information, please visit www.bluelizardsunscreen.com.

Media Contacts:  

Catherine Grygiel

Pineapple PR

cgrygiel@pineapple-pr.com

Jill McGonigle

Crown Laboratories

jmcgonigle@crownlaboratories.com

WHAT:
Ribbon-cutting ceremony for the official opening of The Hemlocks by NOC, Nantahala Outdoor Center’s new elevated bungalow-style accommodations.

WHEN:
Wednesday, April 23, 2024
3:00 PM (Ribbon Cutting Ceremony), Open House Reception to Follow

WHERE:
13077 US 19 West
Bryson City, NC 28713
(Continue across the train tracks and left up the hill)

EVENT DETAILS:
Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) invites media to join in celebrating the grand opening of The Hemlocks by NOC, an exclusive collection of bungalow-style cabins designed to offer guests elevated mountain retreats with modern amenities, stunning views and environmentally considerate construction.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony will feature brief remarks from NOC President Colin McBeath, Bryson City Mayor Tom Sutton, local community leaders, and representatives from the Hemlock Restoration Initiative—a regional effort dedicated to preserving endangered hemlock trees essential to river ecosystem health. In recognition of this initiative, NOC will present a $2,000 donation.

Following the ceremony, attendees are invited to tour select Hemlocks units and enjoy an open house reception featuring live music, catered cuisine, handcrafted beverages and complimentary tote bags.

MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES:

• Interview opportunities with:
  • Colin McBeath, President of NOC
  • Mayor Tom Sutton, Bryson City
  • Representatives from the Hemlock Restoration Initiative
  • Local community and tourism officials
• Visual opportunities:
  • Ribbon cutting ceremony
  • Presentation of donation check
  • Tours of the Hemlocks accommodations