An Eco-Trip Down the Nolichucky

Looking for a great outdoors adventure with a purpose? The French Broad Riverkeeper will be paddling the entire 140-mile length of the Nolichucky River in May, and there's a variety of activities the public can take part in, including a camping trip, a film festival, and lessons at local schools.

Paddlin' the Nolichucky is a two-week monitoring, education and outreach trip, starting on the North Toe River in Spruce Pine and finishing at the mouth of the French Broad River. The trip is designed to monitor the water quality of the river, but also to educate the public about issues facing the river and to highlight the river as a world-class recreation destination.

It all begins on May 23 at Riverside Park in Spruce Pine at a kickoff event that will feature music, speakers, grilled food, a raffle, and boating on the North Toe River. You can bring your own boat or rent one from the park. You can also sign up for a two-day, two-night camping trip down 19 miles of the North Toe and Nolichucky rivers, from Spruce Pine to Loafers Glory. Everything is provided and reservations are required.

On May 26, the trip reaches the Nantahala Outdoor Center for a rafting/paddling/film festival on the banks of the Nolichucky. You can bring your own boat or jump in a raft for an exciting ride down class II-IV rapids. Movies will start at dusk and feature kayaking films from Rapid Transit Video. There will also be prizes provided by REI.

For more information about RiverLink and all the events of Paddlin' the Nolichucky, click here, or call 828-252-8474.