Additionally, for whitewater addicts that are seeking more rapid thrills in the surrounding mountains beyond the Smokies, NOC also has operates whitewater rafting trips on other Southeastern rivers such as: the Chattooga, Cheoah, French Broad, Nantahala, Nolichucky, and Ocoee.
NOC has honorably earned their reputation as the premier white water rafting company in the southeast with many accolades and awards. As Ben Lethco explains, “More people choose NOC than any other whitewater outfitter for a reason. It’s because of our experience, unparalleled in the industry. 22 Olympians, including two Gold Medalists, have called NOC home. NOC has been recognized by The New York Times as the “Nation’s Premiere Paddling School,” “The Best Place to Learn” by Outside, and as “One of the Best Outfitters on Earth” by National Geographic ADVENTURE. NOC was the recipient of the 2012 OIA Outdoor Inspiration Award and it has hosted the International Canoe Federation 2012 World Cup and 2013 World Freestyle Kayaking Championships.”
One of the most critical part of any good white water rafting experiences is your guide. They will be your conduit and guide into your wildness adventure, and NOC has some of the best. As Ben describes, “Our guides are among the most experienced in the nation. Among our guides, we also have Master guides. NOC Master Guides have completed NOC’s exclusive skills development and advanced search and rescue course. In total, this intensive course requires 15 days of additional hard-skills development including Rescue3 International River Rescue Professional Certification and a SOLO Wilderness First Responder Certification. Participating guides are hand-selected by their peers and company management. With the graduating class currently at 45, more NOC Guides will complete this elite training course every year.”
For outdoor adventure sports enthusiasts or those seeking more than the raft, NOC also offers a premier paddling school with superb paddle instruction trips.