Asheville NC Fall Colors are best seen in the gorge!
Stay Warm, Stay Dry, and See the Best Fall Views on a Scenic 10-Mile Adventure
Fall Colors Special
10% Off Your Noli Gorge Trip
**Use The Chat Widget to Receive Your Promo Code
Imagine gliding down the crystal-clear waters of the Nolichucky Gorge, surrounded by vibrant fall foliage. You might be thinking, "It’s too cold to raft..."— Fear not, we provide all the gear you need to stay warm and dry! For a limited time, enjoy 10% off your fall rafting adventure! Don’t miss out on the most breathtaking views of the season.
Fall Trips Are Only Offered From Wednesday-Sunday, So Secure Your Spot Before It's Full!
Is it Too Cold to Go Rafting? Not with Us
Many think fall rafting means cold water and uncomfortable conditions, but that's not the case with Blue Ridge Paddling. We equip you with top-quality wetsuits, splash gear, and everything needed to keep you warm and dry AT NO EXTRA COST. Rafting in the fall offers a unique experience that summer can’t match—fewer crowds, crisp air, and of course, the best views of the season.
Is it Too Cold to Go Rafting? Not with Us
Many think fall rafting means cold water and uncomfortable conditions, but that's not the case with Blue Ridge Paddling. We equip you with top-quality wetsuits, splash gear, and everything needed to keep you warm and dry AT NO EXTRA COST. Rafting in the fall offers a unique experience that summer can’t match—fewer crowds, crisp air, and of course, the best views of the season.
The Best Way to See Fall Colors in North Carolina
We hold our river guides and instructors to the highest standards, which includes Wilderness First Aid, Swift Water Rescue, and ACA kayak instructor certifications to name a few. Safety and risk management are at the forefront of our operation, which is emphasized by our approach to operation both on and off the river.
The Best Way to See Fall Colors in North Carolina
Skip out on the Blue Ridge Parkway traffic! The Nolichucky Gorge is famous for its stunning 10-mile stretch of river, and there's no better way to witness the changing leaves than from the water. Our rafting trips offer unparalleled views of the brilliant reds, oranges, and yellows, set against a backdrop of towering cliffs and clear blue skies. It’s nature at its finest—and it’s waiting for you.
SAFE, FUN AND FAMILY FRIENDLY RAFTING
Whether you're an experienced rafter or a first-timer, our expert guides ensure your trip is safe, exciting, and enjoyable for all ages. Our rafting excursions are perfect for families, friends, and solo adventurers alike. You’ll enjoy a thrilling ride without compromising comfort or safety.
Safe, Fun, and Family-Friendly Rafting
Whether you're an experienced rafter or a first-timer, our expert guides ensure your trip is safe, exciting, and enjoyable for all ages. Our rafting excursions are perfect for families, friends, and solo adventurers alike. You’ll enjoy a thrilling ride without compromising comfort or safety.
NOTHING BUT SMILES IN THE GORGE
This trip is recommended for folks that are healthy and physically fit as it demands a high level of participation from our guest. This trip is not appropriate for younger children and is for ages 10 and up. Blue Ridge Paddling reserves the right to decline any guests due to safety and health concerns of our guests and our staff.
View Our Trip Options and Book Today!
Nolichucky Gorge
The Nolichucky Gorge provides an exhilarating whitewater experience through the deepest gorge east of the Mississippi River. This section starts off with a bang with many class IV rapids that require participation from all guests. With plenty of excitement, you will also have plenty of time to relax, swim, and take in the scenery that surrounds the gorge!
Trip Length: Varies depending on water level (2.5 - 3.5 hours on water).
Check In Time: 8:30 am
Location: BRP Erwin, Tennessee.
Rapid Classification: III-IV
Age: 10 years or older. Minors must have accompanying adults.
Includes: All required gear at no extra cost and and professional, experienced, and certified guides.
What to Bring: Swimwear and river shoes that have a heel strap.
Cost: $108/guest ( 4 person minimum and up) $148/guest (Group of just 3, your own boat with guide)
Groups of 18+ please call 423-220-4882 to make your reservation
*** This trip is recommended for folks that are healthy and physically fit as it demands a high level of participation from our guest. This trip is not appropriate for younger children and is for ages 10 and up. Blue Ridge Paddling reserves the right to decline any guests due to safety and health concerns of our guests and our staff.
Nothing But Smiles in The Gorge!
This trip is recommended for folks that are healthy and physically fit as it demands a high level of participation from our guest. This trip is not appropriate for younger children and is for ages 10 and up. Blue Ridge Paddling reserves the right to decline any guests due to safety and health concerns of our guests and our staff.
View Our Trip Options and Book Today!
Nolichucky Gorge
The Nolichucky Gorge provides an exhilarating whitewater experience through the deepest gorge east of the Mississippi River. This section starts off with a bang with many class IV rapids that require participation from all guests. With plenty of excitement, you will also have plenty of time to relax, swim, and take in the scenery that surrounds the gorge!
Trip Length: Varies depending on water level (2.5 - 3.5 hours on water).
Check In Time: 8:30 am
Location: BRP Erwin, Tennessee.
Rapid Classification: III-IV
Age: 10 years or older. Minors must have accompanying adults.
Includes: All required gear at no extra cost and and professional, experienced, and certified guides.
What to Bring: Swimwear and river shoes that have a heel strap.
Cost: $108/guest ( 4 person minimum and up) $148/guest (Group of just 3, your own boat with guide)
Groups of 18+ please call 423-220-4882 to make your reservation
*** This trip is recommended for folks that are healthy and physically fit as it demands a high level of participation from our guest. This trip is not appropriate for younger children and is for ages 10 and up. Blue Ridge Paddling reserves the right to decline any guests due to safety and health concerns of our guests and our staff.
Lower Nolichucky-Express
Our Lower Nolichucky Express trip is perfect for all ages and experience levels. Navigate through class I-II(III) rapids in a beautiful setting. This trip is laid back, great for families and kids looking for a few splashes and ample swim time. This is a perfect first timer's trip for folks looking to dip their toes in the whitewater!
Trip Length: Varies depending on water level (1.5 hours on water).
Check In Time: 10:00 am
Location: BRP Erwin, Tennessee.
Rapid Classification: I-III
Weight Restriction: must be minimum of 55 lbs. Minors must have accompanying adults.
Includes: All gear and guides.
What to Bring: Swimwear and river shoes that have a heel strap.
Cost: $65
Groups of 12+ please call 423-220-4882 to make your reservation.
Lower Nolichucky-Express
Our Lower Nolichucky Express trip is perfect for all ages and experience levels. Navigate through class I-II(III) rapids in a beautiful setting. This trip is laid back, great for families and kids looking for a few splashes and ample swim time. This is a perfect first timer's trip for folks looking to dip their toes in the whitewater!
Trip Length: Varies depending on water level (1.5 hours on water).
Check In Time: 10:00 am
Location: BRP Erwin, Tennessee.
Rapid Classification: I-III
Weight Restriction: must be minimum of 55 lbs. Minors must have accompanying adults.
Includes: All gear and guides.
What to Bring: Swimwear and river shoes that have a heel strap.
Cost: $65
Groups of 12+ please call 423-220-4882 to make your reservation.
ABOUT OUR FOUNDERS
MASON SCHMIDT
Co-Founder - Whitewater Instructor/River Guide
Mason Schmidt, like his brother, was raised in Alabama. He has spent a large portion of his life chasing the next opportunity that allows him to instruct in the outdoors. These days, he recently acquired his Outdoor Industry MBA and is now settling into his life’s work of sharing his passion for whitewater with others. Developing relationships and friendships through guiding and instructing in the outdoor industry has been his focus for the last decade. Although he has paddled in countless locations, he cut his teeth in the Southeast – an area that is renowned for exceptional opportunities to learn how to paddle and progress to the next level. Mason has been an instructor of various outdoor recreation activities for nearly a decade. From skiing in the Rockies, to backpacking in the DividerTetons, and kayaking across the southeast – he’s taught many folks the knowledge and skills that he has developed over his career.
Mason’s favorite rivers are the Nolichucky and the Grand Canyon of the Colorado. If Mason is not on the water, you might find him mountain biking or snow skiing depending on the season. Mason’s extensive knowledge and experience in whitewater kayaking instruction coupled with his warm personality will have you requesting a day on the river with him by name time and time again.
BRANNON SCHMIDT
Co-Founder - Whitewater Instructor/River Guide
Brannon Schmidt hails from Alabama but grew up exploring all that the Southeastern United States has to offer. Brannon loves all forms of outdoor recreation, but his biggest passions are whitewater kayaking, rafting, and teaching individuals to love and appreciate the great outdoors. Brannon lives and breathes river recreation. He finds nothing more rewarding than sharing his passion with both experienced paddlers and newcomers, alike.
Brannon’s favorite rivers are the Nolichucky and the Tellico. Brannon is extremely excited to get to know you. His infectious spirit and passion for sharing experiences on the water with you will always leaving you wanting to come back for more.
ABOUT OUR FOUNDERS
MASON SCHMIDT
Co-Founder - Whitewater Instructor/River Guide
Mason Schmidt, like his brother, was raised in Alabama. He has spent a large portion of his life chasing the next opportunity that allows him to instruct in the outdoors. These days, he recently acquired his Outdoor Industry MBA and is now settling into his life’s work of sharing his passion for whitewater with others. Developing relationships and friendships through guiding and instructing in the outdoor industry has been his focus for the last decade. Although he has paddled in countless locations, he cut his teeth in the Southeast – an area that is renowned for exceptional opportunities to learn how to paddle and progress to the next level. Mason has been an instructor of various outdoor recreation activities for nearly a decade. From skiing in the Rockies, to backpacking in the DividerTetons, and kayaking across the southeast – he’s taught many folks the knowledge and skills that he has developed over his career.
Mason’s favorite rivers are the Nolichucky and the Grand Canyon of the Colorado. If Mason is not on the water, you might find him mountain biking or snow skiing depending on the season. Mason’s extensive knowledge and experience in whitewater kayaking instruction coupled with his warm personality will have you requesting a day on the river with him by name time and time again.
BRANNON SCHMIDT
Co-Founder - Whitewater Instructor/River Guide
Brannon Schmidt hails from Alabama but grew up exploring all that the Southeastern United States has to offer. Brannon loves all forms of outdoor recreation, but his biggest passions are whitewater kayaking, rafting, and teaching individuals to love and appreciate the great outdoors. Brannon lives and breathes river recreation. He finds nothing more rewarding than sharing his passion with both experienced paddlers and newcomers, alike.
Brannon’s favorite rivers are the Nolichucky and the Tellico. Brannon is extremely excited to get to know you. His infectious spirit and passion for sharing experiences on the water with you will always leaving you wanting to come back for more.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I book my trip with BRP?
Visit our website and click Book Now for the activity you want to participate in. Dates and availability will be shown. If you have questions, give us a call and we can book over the phone. Our website has a list of all our services with a description of each activity. Things like what to wear, what essential items we recommend our guests to have and trip duration.
Your How can I find the price for each activity that BRP offers? Here
All BRP activities have their own drop-down tab on our website home page. Simply click the tab (rafting, kayak instruction, rentals, tubing,). Groups of 10 or more may qualify for a group rate depending on activity.
What is BRP’s cancellation policy?
Any cancellation within 7 days of the reservation will be charged 100% of the reservation price. Any cancellation made between 7 and 14 days prior to the reservation date will receive a 50% refund. Any cancellation made 15 days prior to the reservation date will receive a full refund or credit to a future reservation.
Do I have to have experience?
No experience needed for any of our activities.
Are there any age or weight requirements for BRP activities?
We have various activities for everyone, including for children that are as young as 6 years of age and 55lb with an accompanying adult. Contact us with any questions for specific activities.
Will my trip or lesson be cancelled due to bad weather?
BRP runs trips and programs rain or shine. If weather or conditions increase risk or alter safety, our experience planner will be in contact with you.
How many people can be in one raft? Will my group be split up?
Our rafts can hold up to 7 paddlers including the guide. BRP prides itself on running smaller, more personalized experiences. Simply put, we would never split up a group that intended on enjoying the river together.
How many people will be in my kayaking lesson?
Private and custom lessons will be the number of participants in your specific party. BRP operates under the American Canoe Association’s course curriculum for group lessons and follows the ratio of 1 instructor for every 5 students. Larger group programs are also available.
Will BRP provide river shuttles for guests and private boaters?
All transportation is included in our activities for guests. Private boater shuttles can be arranged with prior notice. Give us a call to check availability.
Where should I look for lodging/camping options?
We recommend staying at Jonesborough / Cherokee National Forest KOA Journey. You will find a small, family friendly, boutique campground located right on the river with accommodations such as vintage glamping, caboose rooms, or deluxe cabins with room for the whole family. Our Lower Nolichucky Premium trip provides pick up service from KOA and ends right at your campsite! Let us handle the logistics while you relax and enjoy your premium whitewater experience! Please visit the website for more info and reservations. KOA Jonesborough / Cherokee NF
Can I bring my furry friend with me on the raft or river?
BRP unfortunately does not allow our furry friends (dogs,cats,etc) to join us on the river.
Does BRP have food on site?
BRP does not currently offer food options on site. Call our experience planner for more information!
Can I just walk-in and book a trip for that same day?
BRP will do its best to accommodate all our guests, however we cannot guarantee walk-in bookings. It is highly recommended to give us a call to help book your trip or book online.
What do I wear?
The short answer is...Bring a swimsuit or bottoms that you don’t mind getting wet and that can dry quickly. Closed toe river shoes are recommended but we do allow for Chaco and Teva style sandals. Don’t have river shoes? No problem! BRP provides all required gear and equipment including river shoes. Cotton clothing and Jeans are not allowed for safety reasons. Sun protection is recommended with quick dry fit shirts which are sold in our outfitter store.
Should I bring my phone, wallet, and keys to the river? If not, what do I do with them?
BRP highly recommends not bringing your phone, wallet, or keys on your trip. Rest assured we will carefully collect car keys and ask that you leave your wallet behind in your locked vehicle. People do bring phones sometimes for pictures, but the result is that sometimes your phone finds a new home at the bottom of the river. Allow our team to take care of all photo opportunities for you!
What does class I, II, III, IV, V mean?
Check out this great description provided by American Whitewater! https://www.americanwhitewater.org/content/Wiki/safety:start/
