Rafting the Nolichucky
The Nolichucky River is a body of water that rises from the Blue Ridge Mountains in Western North Carolina and flows northwest into Tennessee, then goes west to join the French Broad River after running a course of 150 miles (Britanica. Com). The Nolichucky’s most action packed stretch of water runs through a beautiful stretch of the Pisgah and Cherokee National Forests. The whitewater on this river is truly world-class. If thrills and spills are what you love, then the Nolichucky, referred to commonly as the "Noli," is the place you need to check out. As a raft-guide on the Nolichucky this past summer, I highly recommend that any physically and mentally stable student who enjoys nature should give a white water-rafting trip some serious thought.
For an individual with absolutely no experience, I would suggest starting on a mild part of the "Noli." The lower area of the Nolichucky offers a mild dose of rapids and is perfect for children and those with a low tolerance for danger and extreme sports. The lower "Noli" is a five-mile trip and usually takes anywhere form three to six hours. With only one Class III on the entire trip, one could almost take a nap on this raft trip. The upper section of the Nolichucky is where you are going to get to exercise those bellowing lungs. With an array of Class IV rapids, the upper section of the "Noli" promises to provide a day of thrills and spills.
Before planning a white water rafting trip, I suggest everyone to be aware of certain things. First, this is a dangerous and physical event that requires some muscle and heart. For anyone with a weight problem, heart problems, or mental instability, this activity is not suggested by the companies who provide their services in this type of activity. If you have any questions about your ability to do an activity of this nature, consult a doctor first. The main goal for all of us is to have fun and be safe.
The company that I work for is called Cherokee Adventures and is located about twenty miles south of the ETSU campus. From the Culp Center, this should be no more than a twenty five-minute drive. From the campus the you need go south in the direction of US181/23. Head south on 81/23 and go 15 miles from Johnson City.