Known for its world-class fishing, tumbling rapids and recreational opportunities, the Nolichucky River carves its 115-mile path from the mountains of western North Carolina through East Tennessee.  Passing through two national forests, the Nolichucky provides nature lovers the freedom to explore some of the widest and steepest gorges in the Appalachian mountains. There are many great ways to experience the Nolichucky River, including the Nolichucky Outdoor Learning Institute  which offers kayaking, canoeing, hiking, paddle boarding, and group team-building.

Anglers enjoy several varieties of fish including smallmouth, rock, and black bass as well as catfish, crappie, musky, and trout with several access points along the river. Additionally, the Nolichucky Gorge Campground offers paid parking and showers for private boaters as well as rustic cabins, RV campsites and open campsites.

Another way to experience the Nolichucky is through its revered whitewater. For more advanced kayakers and rafters, there’s a stretch of eight miles between Poplar, NC and Erwin, TN offering Class III and IV rapids. For guided rafting trips on the Nolichucky,  USA Raft and Mountain River Guides offer plenty of options for family or group outings.