There's whitewater, and then there's big whitewater. Jackson County has both, but families and children will appreciate the warm and gentle currents of the Tuckasegee River, a perfect spot for first-time rafters.

Outfitting companies offer everything needed for the trip downstream, from rafts and life jackets to drop-offs and pickups at the end of the ride. Trip range in length and style; outfitters can provide rafts, tubes, kayaks, canoes, even funyaks (canoe-kayak hybrids) and ducky solos (individual rafts for the independent-minded).

The Tuck's rapids remain class I-II throughout the river's nearly 40-mile run - those wanting more challenging whitewater can try the nearby Nantahala and Chattooga rivers.

Back to Activities