Nolichucky

(nicknamed the Noli by river runners)

Location: Eastern Tennessee (about 90 miles east of Knoxville).

Length of trip: 11.5 miles in seven hours (takes less time when the water is high).

Season: Late March through early July. The rafting is better early in the season, when the higher water rivals that of any river in the East.

Weather: While early spring and late fall are often chilly (30° to 65°F) and wet, late spring and summer bring heat (70° to 85°) and humidity to the southern Appalachians. Densely forested mountains and valleys shade the Nolichucky in summer, when rainstorms are frequent.

Lodging: Campgrounds on the river at the take-out near Erwin, as well as hotels in Erwin and nearby Johnson City.

Boats: Kayaks, paddle rafts.

Rapids: Class III and IV. Cool, clear water can turn muddy after a rainstorm.

Special features:

  • The free-flowing Nolichucky slices through one of the Southeast’s deeper, more majestic gorges; old-growth forest covers the steep, craggy cliffs.
  • Several cascading waterfalls and house-size boulders along the way.
  • Wildflowers in spring.
  • Lovely autumn colors.
  • White-tailed deer, black bears, great blue herons, egrets, ducks, ospreys, bald eagles, golden eagles.
  • Good fishing for smallmouth bass and trout (brown, rainbow).
  • Solitude.
  • Great rafting for novice to advanced river runners. Rivals Section 4 of the Chattooga in difficulty.

Nearby excursions:

  • Pisgah National Forest.
  • Cherokee National Forest.
  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
  • Appalachian Trail.

For a list of outfitters and more information:

  • USDA Forest Service, Unaka Ranger District, Cherokee National Forest, Erwin, Tennessee 37650; +1 423 743 4452, fax +1 423 743 0322. Because of the short season, try to book as early as possible.

  • Appalachian Ranger District, Toecane Ranger Station, Pisgah National Forest, P.O. Box 128, Burnsville, North Carolina 28714; +1 704 682 6146, fax +1 704 682 9179. Because of the short season, try to book as early as possible.

For more information:

  • USDA Forest Service, Nolichucky Ranger District, Cherokee National Forest, 124 Austin Street, Greeneville, Tennessee 37745; +1 423 638 4109, fax +1 423 638 6599.

  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park story in NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC TRAVELER, January/February 1991. To order a copy, please click here.

 
 
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