->Outdoors Activities in & Around Franklin
Discover a host of outdoor activities in Franklin, NC for the whole family. From fishing and hiking in Franklin, NC, to whitewater rafting for all skill levels, and scenic drives along waterfall studded gorges, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. With so many outdoors activities in Franklin to choose from, adventure awaits around every corner!
White Water Rafting Near Franklin, NC
The river offers rafting opportunities through family friendly rapids that are mild but exciting. The rafting experience features eight miles of practice on easy Class II rapids before splashing through the exciting Class III whitewater of Nantahala Falls. Did you know that while white water rafting in North Carolina you’ll likely see Olympic hopefuls training for kayaking? Keep your eyes out!
White Water Rafting North Carolina, World Class Guides
What a great perspective to take in the beauty of the mountains as you rush along the Nantahala River. You’ll discover world-class guides and instruction to make sure you have a safe day of fun in the mountains of Western North Carolina.
White Water Rafting in North Carolina’s Nantahala River
The word “Nantahala” comes from the Cherokee language and means “Land of the Noonday Sun.” The river runs through a narrow and steep gorge where in some areas the sun only reaches the ground when it is directly overhead during the middle of the day. Discover the enchanting effect for yourself for a white water rafting North Carolina experience unlike any other!
Looking for something beyond white water rafting? You’re in luck because the Nantahala River is also a very popular trout fishing destination. North Carolina Game and Fish has named the Nantahala River one of North Carolina’s ten best trout streams. Trout Unlimited has also touted it as a Top 100 trout stream.
Directions to Nantahala Gorge for Your NC Water Adventures
From Franklin follow the winding and picturesque Highway 28. Follow to US 19/74 and turn left. Follow to the Nantahala Gorge.
Little Tennessee River Greenway
Providing a cornucopia of wildflowers and wildlife, the Little Tennessee River Greenway in Franklin, NC cuts a 13 foot wide meandering path of nearly five miles through the Town and points along the river. The Greenway is the perfect for hiking, jogging and bicycling.
Reflecting the extraordinarily rich diversity of the Franklin, North Carolina landscape, visitors can experience wetlands, stroll through two railroad cuts left behind by the Tallulah Falls Railroad, wander alongside an old pasture, catch sight of the desert agave, and experience the upland woods.
This marvelous asset began as a dream. The Greenway represents a voluntary local strategy to preserve scenic, natural, historic, cultural and recreational resources and promotes increased public access to the Little Tennessee River through the creation of riverside parks and trails.
Big Bear Park on East Main Street is a popular destination featuring Wesley’s Playground. The park also has a water feature that runs from 10 AM to 7 PM daily from mid-April to mid-October. It is a great place to have fun and cool off on a warm Summer day.
The Tassee area of the Greenway is just beyond Depot Street. There are areas for fishing, canoe put-ins, a play area, shelter and more.
There are many other entrance points and amenities, including a mountain bike trail, a historic steel suspension bridge, a butterfly garden, and much more. Be sure to visit the Friends of the Greenway website for more information.