Whitewater Paddling
Southeastern creeking is legendary among paddlers with iconic runs throughout the region. North Carolina features renowned creeks including the Horse Pasture, the North Fork of the French Broad, and the Green River Narrows, among countless others flowing regularly throughout the year. Big water rivers flow throughout the region and include the Chattooga, Cheoah, Nolichucky, and Section 9 of the French Broad.
North Carolina is home to many of the premier paddling destinations in the southeastern United States. Paddlers can start with accessible, classic locations including the North Fork of the French Broad, Big Laurel Creek or the Watagua. More experienced paddlers can head to Linville or the Jocassee Watershed for numerous technical paddling opportunities.
Interested in learning more about whitewater paddling in Western North Carolina? Paddlesport resources are available online through American Whitewater.
American Whitewater is a non-profit, member-driven river conservation organization representing whitewater enthusiasts across the nation. American Whitewater’s mission is to protect and restore America’s whitewater rivers and to enhance opportunities to enjoy them safely.
View whitewater paddling experiences using the American Whitewater map.
Green River Narrows
Class: IV-V+
Distance: 3 Miles
Watauga Gorge
Class: IV-V
Distance: 4.8 Miles
Nolichucky Gorge
Class: III-IV
Distance: 9.2 Miles