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Pigeon Upper Half-Day Reviews

5 Rating 271 Reviews
Read Nantahala Outdoor Center Reviews

About Nantahala Outdoor Center:

Leaders in Outdoor Adventure Since 1972

Over a million guests visit NOC annually to embark on a diverse collection of more than 120 different river and land-based itineraries.

We offer exciting experiences that create lasting memories through a shared love of the Outdoors.

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Phone:

866-336-1037

Email:

nocmedia@noc.com

Location:

13077 U.S. 19 West,
Bryson City
North Carolina
28713

Originally booked the easier lower river trip, as it was to be our first rafting experience and had 9 & 12 year olds going. At the check-in, however, they talked us into rafting the upper section and we're so glad they did. Exciting rapids, but nothing too extreme, and we had confidence in our guide (Gilgunn) the whole time. We feel that the lower section would have been much less fun for the whole family. The NOC was well organized and accommodating. If travelling from Gatlinburg, don't let your GPS bring you in from 32 South - some very sketchy and steep one-lane roads along that way. Find a way to come in from the interstate, which is just across the road from the Center.
3 Helpful Report
Posted 1 year ago
Steve was our guide to the Upper Pigeon River. We learned that there is no bad time to go as the river is fed by a Dam. The river water was around 70 degrees - perfect for our sunny day. A 20 minute safety lesson that held our teens attention (14 and 16), a 15 minute drive on a clean bus and 90 minutes of fun including a quick dip. Steve and he was filled with knowledge about the surroundings and some history of the area - and some bad jokes. We not only felt safe but entertained. Wear your swimsuit or a moisture wicking shirt and shoes that cover your ankle - we had Keens - they do sell aqua socks on the shop. NO FLIP FLOPS or SLIDES. There is a changing area complete with showers if you need them (but the river was very clean). The t-shirts and CD of photos were both reasonable - I would rather spend my money in their t-shirt shop than on the strip.
1 Helpful Report
Posted 1 year ago
My husband and 3 kids went (sadly without me). I heard nothing but rave reviews! Best part of their TN vacation! All 1st timers but guides were professional and knew the river well. Heard tons of funny jokes and honestly my family can’t wait to go rafting again! Mack and Crispy were the guides: phenomenal!
Helpful Report
Posted 1 year ago
If you ever considered a whitewater raft trip do it! And go with NOC! Our guide Nicole was awesome. We had a blast!
Helpful Report
Posted 1 year ago
We had a great time and will definitely white water raft with this company in the future. The location was great. The staff was very professional, knowledgeable and fun. Our guide Badger was simply the best.
Helpful Report
Posted 1 year ago
We celebrated Independence Day with our first whitewater rafting experience. It was the perfect way to spend the last day of our family reunion in Pigeon Forge. Guided by 'Jedi Mike' - we successfully navigated 3 sets of difficult rapids for a perfect trifecta! I guess the FORCE was with us. It was a fantastic experience for our raft, full of 'first-timers.' We will be back!
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Posted 1 year ago
Lauren was an awesome raft guide. My wife and son had never whitewater rafted. It was a blast. Water level was high so we got to do more than usual. Would definitely recommend NOC!!!
Helpful Report
Posted 1 year ago
We had a group of 12 and each person had a WONDERFUL time. We will do this again!
Helpful Report
Posted 1 year ago