It’s time for a lap on “The Nanty” with Appalachian Paddling Enthusiasts! It’s 8.2 miles of Class II paddling with one Class III at the end by Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) that can be portaged by exiting at the beaching area. This paddle starts with a rapid at Patton’s run and then has a calmer stretch to settle in before hitting the rapids at the Ferebee launch and picnic area. The Class III falls before NOC have a recovery pool if you are up for the challenge. This is a cold river year-round, so dress appropriately. You also will need a USFS day pass ($2) or a annual pass ($10), which can be purchased at the Nantahala Outdoor Center and other outfitters in the area. We will meet at 10:30 am at the parking lot for the Nantahala River Launch Site, Wayah Rd, Topton, NC 28781. This is NOT Patton's overlook.

The Nantahala is one of the most popular whitewater rivers in the Southeast. Starting near the Georgia-North Carolina border close to the Southern Nantahala Wilderness and the Appalachian Trail, it flows 40 miles north through Nantahala National Forest into the Little Tennessee River at Fontana Lake. In the Cherokee language, Nantahala means "Land of the Noonday Sun.” Rapids on this section include Patton’s Run, Quarry, Whirlpool, Surfers, Bulls Run, and Upper Nantahala Falls.

HEAD COUNT REQUIRED: To register for this trip, email Joe Poehlmann at jpales19@gmail.com.