A Comprehensive Outdoor School You Can Trust
Located on the banks of the beautiful Nolichucky River in the mountains of Northeast Tennessee, NOLI is the region's leading comprehensive outdoor school offering courses and instruction for all ability levels in a variety of disciplines including kayak, canoe, water safety and rescue, wilderness medicine, survival, navigation, camping, backpacking, conservation and more. We also offer special events such as team building, adventure camps and custom programs tailored to you and your group. There's something for everyone at the Nolichucky Outdoor Learning Institute!
Explore. Learn. Thrive.
Stunning Locations
Our outpost location along the beautiful Nolichucky River and class locations in and adjacent to the mountains and rivers of the Appalachian Highlands provide a truly stunning backdrop to learn and immerse yourself in the outdoors.
Extensive Curriculum
NOLI's diverse range of outdoor education programs is unrivaled in the region, providing students with a wide variety of unique and rewarding educational experiences.

Decades of Expertise
NOLI's instructors are highly qualified and experienced professionals, with a wealth of knowledge and expertise in their respective fields. You won’t find a more capable and caring group committed to helping you achieve your goals.
Adventure is Calling!
Northeast Tennessee and the Appalachian Highlands are a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide variety of opportunities for adventure and training. From the rugged beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the clear rivers and streams of Cherokee National Forest, there is something for everyone.
Classes & Events
Kayaking Classes and Adventures
Whitewater and flatwater, beginner to advanced instruction plus overnight trips
Whitewater Canoeing Classes
Private and group lessons for all abilities on the Nolichucky and French Broad
Water Safety & Rescue Classes
Certified water safety and rescue training, including swiftwater and flatwater rescue
Wilderness Medicine First Aid and CPR Classes
Basic First & CPR plus Wilderness First Aid courses
Wilderness Survival & Navigation Training
One to two-day survival and wilderness skills courses plus map and compass
Conservation & Leave No Trace Classes and Events
Leave No Trace Training and events for individuals, groups and trainers
Special Events and Workshops
See any special events and unique workshops currently offered by NOLI
Why Choose Us
Learning Experience
Develop skills in a professional, supportive learning environment
Connect to Nature
Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature
Feel Empowered
Come away feeling confident and empowered
Have Fun
We believe people learn best when they have fun