Enjoy the "Nanny" from a duckie

Looking for a cool way to spend a hot summer day in the Southeast? Hit the Nantahala River in North Carolina. Nicknamed the “Nanny” for its gentle Class IIs and Class IIIs rapids, this river is always a cool ride. Just this weekend the river temperature was a chilling 52 to 57 degrees Fahrenheit.  Why so chilly? This river is lake fed, which means the water temperature is always cool. This fact makes the Nanny a great place to spend a hot summer day. Many outfitters offer rafting, kayaking, and duckie rentals and guided trips. If you are new to rafting, kayaking, or duckie-ing, this river is perfect for beginners. You can experience the thrill of rapids without getting in over your head on your first trip. 

On the Nanny

Many areas are gentle, giving a nice break from rougher areas of the water. Whether you are looking for a gentle ride or a more adventurous one, you will find both on the Nanny. Rent a duckie and head for the rapids for a wetter more adventurous ride. Duckies are inflatable kayaks that put you closer to the waves than you will be in a raft. These crafts are easy to negotiate and a blast to ride in.

The Nantahala River also offers beautiful scenery. Slow down through the gentle parts and enjoy the surroundings. 

Remember to bring a waterproof camera to document your trip. Plan ahead and wear sunscreen. Even though much of the river is shaded it is easy to find yourself sunburned at the end of a trip on the Nanny. 

Soaking wet and cold, I made it through the Nantahala!

Safety while on the river should come first. Always keep your hands on the paddle and be aware of where your paddle is at all times (i.e., avoid hitting your rafting partner with it). When approaching rapids and waves, lean INTO them. Leaning away from waves can result in an unexpected swim through the rapids. If you fall in the river, lean back on your life jacket and keep your feet up. Dangling your feet in the water can result in getting a foot stuck in the rocks and you can be pulled under by the waves. Once possible, get back into your raft.

Check out Whitewater Express to schedule a trip on the Nanny.

1. Biking the Continental Divide Trail: Multistate
2. Kayaking Lake Yellowstone: Wyoming
3. Rowing Down the Grand Canyon: Arizona
4. Climbing Mount Rainier: Washington
5. Canoeing the Adirondacks: New York
6. Exploring ANWR: Alaska
7. Biking RAGBRAI: Iowa
8. Surfing the Lost Coast: California
9. Hiking the Sierra High Route: California 10. Wreck Diving Lake Superior: Minnesota
For more info on each adventure, read the entire article on the Top 50 Best American Adventures.