Common Sense Tips - Nantahala White Water River Area - North Carolina

Mountain Wild Flowers in North Carolina

The Nantahala River area in North Carolina is a beautiful and rustic area of the state. Nantahala is known most for the white water rafting, but it’s also a pretty place to rest and look at the scenery. You’ll enjoy the mountain flowers in the spring, the water in the summer, leaves in the spring, and snow in the winter.

Remember that this is small town are and rural even though you will see some tourists and tourist attractions. Locals don’t get in a hurry. You may have to wait in line to buy stuff while someone shows off pictures of grandkids or talks about the weather.

Ask about fun things to do in the area. Many of the sites are hard to find or not listed at all. One of the locals told us about the cave and another gave us directions to rent the pontoon boat. Another loaned us a phone when the phone went out in the cabin. If you are looking for small town charm and kindness, this is where you’ll find it.

Be sure to use the bathroom before you hit the road. You won’t find many rest stops or gas stations. Sure. There are places to see and stop, but you’ll find long stretches of trees and wildlife.

You’ll also want to keep the gas tank filled and carry some food. I would suggest taking soda crackers. The roads are very winding, and both my boys threw up. The crackers helped a lot. Dramamine would be a good idea for those who get motion sickness, but that can make you sleepy. I’d say to try the crackers first.

Picnic supplies are a good idea. There are lots of roadside tables or pretty spots to stop and eat. We carried a cooler with us everywhere and had cold drinks or something to eat when we got hungry. You’ll go long stretches without seeing a restaurant or drink machine in Nantahala. You’ll also save money by taking food with you.

Take warm clothing. Even in the summer, this area can get cool. It also rains pretty often. We kept a change of clothes with us in the trunk of the car . . . just in case. Since I got soaked on the white water rafting trip, I was glad to have dry things to put on. We also bought those reef runner slip on shoes at Wal-Mart. Those are a good idea, since you’ll often get wet feet and walk in mud. You can just rinse those shoes in the creek and set them on the car hood to dry off.