Monday-Friday 9 AM to 5 PM
Where to Stay on the Nolichucky
Whitewater Canoeing for All Skill Levels
For most of us canoeing conjures up images of relaxing days spent on lazy rivers - which we readily admit is great! But do you know that canoeing whitewater is a ton of fun and, with the right instruction, you may find yourself having the thrill of a lifetime? Whitewater canoeing instruction with the Nolichucky Outdoor Learning Institute offers a unique and exciting way to experience the art of the single-blade while immersed in the natural beauty of the southern Appalachians. Whether you're a beginner looking to learn the basics or an experienced open-boater looking to up your game, our exceptional instructors will provide expert instruction to help you achieve your goals. Our classes cover everything from equipment familiarization and safety considerations to water reading and advanced boat handling techniques. The Nolichucky Outdoor Learning Institute is the perfect place to learn and improve your whitewater canoeing skills in one of the Southeast’s most spectacular playgrounds!
WHITEWATER CANOE - 1-ON-1 & SMALL GROUP INSTRUCTION
NOLICHUCKY, FRENCH BROAD 9 OR SIMILAR RIVER
Want individualized canoe instruction for you or your group? Contact us directly and we will work with your schedule to come up with a single or multi-day course tailored to your needs.
Duration: 8 Hrs
Begins: 9:00 AM
Operates: March-November
Age Requirements: Age 10+
PRICING FROM
$175.00-325.00
Our exceptional instructors love to canoe and, more importantly, they love to share their expertise with others so that they can safely enjoy their time on the water. You won’t find a more talented, supportive and fun team of professionals committed to helping you achieve your goals on some of the Southeast’s best rivers.
The mighty French Broad river is a fixture of the Southeast boating scene, drawing paddlers from all over to its beautiful and varied waters. From its headwaters in western North Carolina to its confluence with the Holton River in eastern Tennessee, it drains large portions of the Pisgah and Cherokee National Forests and is believed to be one of the oldest rivers in the word. It’s a river that offers something for everyone, from its calm family-friendly floats to its sections sporting exciting and robust class 3+ rapids.
The Nolichucky River is a beautiful 115-mile waterway that begins at the confluence of the Toe and Cane Rivers, flowing through Western North Carolina and East Tennessee before its eventual confluence with the French Broad River. Traversing the Pisgah National Forest and the Cherokee National Forest in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the river's watershed is home to some of the highest mountains in the Appalachians, including Mount Mitchell, the highest point in the eastern United States. The Nolichucky is a river that offers something for everyone, from the beginner-friendly lower section to the stunning and remote class 3+ Gorge section. We are happy to call it home!
David M.
Linda D.
Tom G.
Jim L.
It is recommended to bring swim shorts, towel, sunscreen, closed-toe water shoes (open-toe footwear and sandals not permitted), wicking-type shirt for wear on the water (no cotton), a water bottle or sports drink, bagged lunch and a change of clothes.
No previous experience is required to take beginner-level canoe classes. Our instructors will teach you the basics and guide you through the learning process. Our novice and up level classes (class 2+) do require previous experience and your own equipment.
Yes, canoe lessons are offered for people of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced.
Yes, personal flotation devices are provided and must be worn during canoe classes.
Whitewater canoes are included in the cost of beginner-level classes although you are welcome to bring your own if you have one. Participants in novice-level and up classes (class 2+) are expected to bring their own boat and gear.
Minimum age is 10 years old.
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