If you’re new to Nantahala outdoor recreation, this page may answer your questions about river rafting and Appalachian Rivers Outpost of Carolina Outfitters, Inc.. But if you still have questions, give us a call at 800-330-1999.

Are reservations required? If space is available, we will accept last-minute walk-ins. However, to avoid disappointment, we strongly recommend making advance reservations. Call 800-330-1999.

How do I make a reservation? Appalachian Rivers Outpost of Carolina Outfitters, Inc. will reserve space for individuals or groups with the receipt of a holding deposit of 50 percent of the total cost of the trip. Just give us a call at 800-330-1999.

What if I have to cancel? A full refund will be given up to 30 days before the trip. If less than 30 days and more than 5, we will refund 50 percent of holding deposit. There are no refunds for cancellations within 5 days of the trip.

What are your days and hours of operation? We are open Monday through Saturday, April through October. We schedule rafting trips throughout the day, beginning at 9 am. The last trip usually departs around 3 pm. You should allow two to three hours for your Nantahala rafting excursion.

Can children raft the Nantahala? According the Federal Law, participants must either weigh at least 60 pounds or be seven years old.

What should I bring? Plan on getting wet! Wear shorts and/or a bathing suit and shoes that you don’t mind getting wet. For cooler or rainy days, we provide nylon splash jackets for your comfort, and wet suits and neoprene booties are provided for a nominal charge. Bring a towel and a dry change of clothes for after your trip; and a plastic bag for your wet things.
     We recommend leaving your nice watches and jewelry back in your room. Remember, cool water can shrink your fingers, and you may lose a ring. Coolers are not allowed on the river. Water-proof cameras are recommended for the trip. Our river shop offers a great selection of t-shirts, shorts, river gear and any last-minute items you may have left behind.

Will you take our photograph on the river? Our photographer will snap your photo as you come through the Lesser Wesser Class III  rapids at the end of your trip. If you want to purchase prints, check with your guide.

What if it rains? Trips go on, rain or shine. And you’re going to get wet regardless of the weather.

How difficult is the Nantahala? The Nanny is a Class II river, with one Class III section at the end. Class II is defined as “moderate difficulty with passages clear.” Class III means “waves numerous, high, irregular; rocks; eddies; rapids with passages clear though narrow, requiring expertise in maneuvering.”

Is rafting really safe? Appalachian Rivers Outpost of Carolina Outfitters, Inc. stresses safety and provides thorough safety instruction to all paddlers. Yet rafting like all outdoor activities comes with some risk. That’s why a signed acknowledgment of risk and liability release is a prerequisite to rafting with any rafting company. Download waiver (PDF). You will be equipped with life jackets, and our experienced guides will provide you thorough safety instruction.

Do I need a guide? If it’s your first time to paddle, you may be more comfortable with a guide in your raft.  Or you may choose to go “guide-assisted with a guide nearby in another raft. After you become familiar with the river you may choose the self-guided trip, as do roughly half of our customers.

Must I know how to swim? Not at all. If you fall out of the raft, your life jacket will keep you afloat.

How deep is the Nantahala? Depths range from ten inches to ten feet.  During the safety instruction, your guide will explain why the shallow sections can be the most hazardous.

How cold is the river? The Nanny is a dam-controlled river. Since the water is being pulled from the bottom of Lake Nantahala, the water temperature is the 50's year ‘round.

What about alcohol or drugs? Appalachian Rivers Outpost of Carolina Outfitters, Inc. does not permit the consumption of alcohol or controlled substances on its premises and the U.S. Forest Service prohibits them on the river.

More questions? Call us toll-free at 800-330-1999