Rivers and Gorges

The oldest river in the world, ironically named the New River, begins in the North Carolina mountains.  The Linville River has etched its serpentine way through the mountains to create Linville Gorge, the deepest gorge in the Eastern United States.  The Chattooga and Nolichucky Rivers thunder through the North Carolina mountains and offer some of the finest whitewater rapids in the country.

These and many other North Carolina rivers and streams in the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area are a magnet for fishing and water sports enthusiasts.  Fly fishing is especially popular in the clear North Carolina rivers throughout the area.  Outfitters and river tour companies offer whitewater rafting, canoeing, and kayaking for all levels of skill.

The remote waterways of the North Carolina mountains also beckon to those who just wish to cool their feet in the crisp mountain waters, enjoy a backwoods getaway, and find a moment of peace in a hurried world.

North Carolina rivers and gorges honored as Natural Heritage Sites by the Governor's Year of the Mountains Commission include:

Chattooga River Gorge
Cullasaja River and Gorge
French Broad River
Green River Gorge
Hickory Nut Gorge                                                                               Linville Gorge & Falls
Little Tennessee River
New River State Park
Nolichucky River