Water Activities Around Bryson City
LAKE FONTANA
This 26-mile long, 10,230 acre lake offers its visitors more than 240 miles of beautiful shoreline. Unlike most lakes in the area, more than 90% of the land around the Lake is owned by either the National Park Service or the US Forest Service, assuring you a relaxing vacation on the lake.
One of the most popular activities on Lake Fontana is boating. On the lake, you can enjoy a pontoon boat, ski boat, john boat, canoe, kayak, jet ski or even a jet boat ride! No matter your boating preference, there is a rental company to meet your needs.
MARINAS, BOAT TOURS AND RENTALS
- ALARKA MARINA
- Closest to Native Winds (10-15 minutes) - One of largest marinas on the lake. rental boats, tubes, fuel, supplies, snacks and drinks and anything else you might need to enjoy a day on the lake. Fabulous service and beautiful, new boats.
- PRINCE BOAT DOCK
- Located in Almond NC on beautiful Fontana Lake. They offer pontoon & johnboat rentals, anchored & covered slip moorings for boat storage, dock store with fuel, propane exchange, boat supplies, ice, bait, tackle & tube rentals.
- FONTANA MARINA
- Full line of services including watercraft rentals, free boat launch, a ship store, fishing tackle and license, lake tours and more.
WHITEWATER RAFTING
Looking for adventure? A popular activity for those visiting Bryson City is to raft one (or more) of the four local rivers known for their white water.
AREA RAFTING OUTFITTERS
- APPALACHIAN RIVERS RAFT CO. INC. (Nantahala River)
- NANTAHALA OUTDOOR CENTER (Nantahala and Ocoee Rivers)
- CAROLINA OUTFITTERS RAFTING CO. (Nantahala River) | Also offers inflatable Funyak/Ducky rentals
- TUCKASEEGEE OUTFITTERS (Tuckaseegee River) | Best for younger children (as young as 4 years)
- ENDLESS RIVER ADVENTURES (Nantahala, Cheoah, and Ocoee Rivers)
- ROLLING THUNDER RIVER CO. (Nantahala and Ocoee Rivers) | Dog-friendly rafting available
MOUNTAIN RIVER TUBING
Did you know there are two great tubing runs near Native Winds? Whether you prefer an easy float or a wild ride, both Deep Creek and the Oconaluftee River in Cherokee can offer you the perfect ride.
DEEP CREEK
Deep Creek tubing consists of two sections: The upper “whitewater” section which is considered "whitewater" and generally does bounce a rider from their tube. and the Lower section, where the river widens and the river is smoother. (this section is best for younger children.) In between the two sections, there’s a deep swimming hole where many take a break before venturing on the lower portion. (This is also where riders are "put in" for the lower section ride.
OCONALUFTEE RIVER
The Oconaluftee River flows through downtown Cherokee (About 25 minutes from Native Winds). This pretty and clear river provides you with a ride filled with both rapids (mild ones in our opinion) and gentle currents for the easy riders. Along the river-route, you will find lots of swimming holes where you can take a break and cool off. The water in the Oconaluftee is more shallow in depth (usually no more than about 4 feet) and the river bottom is gentle on the feet (soft sand or smooth river rock).
TUBE RENTAL LOCATIONS
Deep Creek Tube Center & Campground | Smoky Mtn. Campground/Deep Creek Tubes | Smoky Mountain Tube and Raft