Nantahala Rafting Center and Park

Nantahala River Dam Releases

The stretch of river we use for white water rafting on the Nantahala River lies just below Nantahala Lake. Water is pulled from the lake for power generation and released into the river. Duke Energy operates the dam. They post a schedule of projected water releases for the Nantahala River.

Water is released into the river most days from spring through fall. The dam and turbine system is a mechanical system. It's in good shape and well maintained, but breakdowns are possible and do happen. It's unusual, but it does happen.

Nantahala Lake and the dam system give the Nantahala River some of the most reliable water for rafting in the eastern U.S. Rain or drought, the water keeps flowing without dramatic changes in the level of the water.

Nantahala Rafting Opening Day 2009, May 15th

For 2009 only, we at Blue Ridge Outing Company will be opening on May 15th. We are making changes to all of our programs as we switch from USA Raft Nantahala to Blue Ridge Outing Company. We are taking this one time late opening to help with the changes.

Other outfitters will be operating on the Nantahala River starting in early March. You can check the web or give us a call or email and we'll refer to someone who can take you before we open.

We are now taking reservations for May 15th and beyond. Give us a call to reserve at 800-745-9356

Whitewater Rafting on the Nanny

The Nantahala (aka Nanny) is a great rafting river. And whitewater rafts are the most popular way to run the river.         

You can choose whitewater rafts the hold from three to eight people. We also have inflatable kayaks and PaddleCats that hold one or two people.

Choose a guide-assisted trip, where a guide is along in every 3rd or 4th raft. Or, pay extra to guarantee a guide in your raft.

For the more experienced &/or more adventurous, you can choose self-guided rentals. No guide is on the river with you.

Rafting gear, shuttle, and safety briefing and paddling instruction are provided for all trips.