The western North Carolina mountains offer some of the best whitewater rafting/paddling rivers on the east coast. The Nantahala River, only a 30-minute drive from most areas in Graham County, is one of the most popular. This Class I, II, and III river is the perfect place for the entire family to have a taste of this exciting sport. A little farther away is the more adventurous Ocoee where the 1996 Olympic kayaking events were held. Many Graham County visitors take a day to enjoy one of these rivers.
Graham County just might have it's own whitewater river in the near future. Studies have been made with varying flows on the Cheoah River, which parallels US 129 on the western side of the county. Those who rode the various flows during the testing had nothing but positive comments on the nine-miles of the Class IV rapids.
Negotiations are under way for use of the Cheoah River for recreational purposes. If the Cheoah becomes a whitewater river it promises to be one on the best in the southeastern United States.
2008 Release Schedule for Cheoah River
- February 16 and 17
- March 15, 16, and 17
- April 5, 6, 7, 19, and 20
- May 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, and 18
- August 17
- October 4
- November 1
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