Watauga River Rafting

The fast-moving Watauga River is dam controlled ensuring consistent whitewater all season long. For the more adventurous, High Mountain Expeditions offers one-person inflatable kayaks for some personal paddling fun at no additional cost. The pristine waters of the Watauga River are crystal clear and offer abundant wildlife spotting opportunities. This trip requires no previous whitewater experience; you need only the desire to enjoy yourself. Additionally, every raft will have one of High Mountain Expeditions professionally trained guides.

11:15 AM Check in at High Mountain Expeditions Banner Elk outpost, located at Ski Country Sports

11:20 Complete Liability and Acknowledgement of Risk Release Waiver

11:25 Issued a Personal Flotation Device (PFD)

11:30 Load vehicles and depart for the Watauga River

12:20 PM Arrive at High Mountain Expeditions picnic grounds

12:30 Enjoy High Mountain Expeditions famous gourmet deli buffet style lunch

1:15 Return to High Mountain Expeditions put-in location

1:20 Final PFD check along with detailed safety and river orientation speech

1:25 Launch rafts

2:00 Arrive at High Mountain Expeditions original Jump Rock

4:15 Arrive at High Mountain Expeditions private take-out location

4:20 Change clothes inside High Mountain Expeditions private changing rooms

4:25 Enjoy a snack riverside

5:00 Arrive back at High Mountain Expeditions Banner Elk outpost, Ski Country Sports

5:05 Meet and greet with your guides

5:10 Slideshow of the day’s photos and videos

*Note: This itinerary is provided as a sample. Actual times and activities are subject to change as a result of weather conditions, current water flows, and guest preferences.

• Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
• Dry Top
• Wetsuits
• Paddle
• Water Guns
• Wilderness First-Aid Kit

*If you do forget something our outpost stores carry a full selection of Water Shoes, T-Shirts, Waterproof Cameras, Sunscreen, and more.

• Swimsuit or Quick Drying Shorts
• Water Shoes or Strap Sandals
• Waterproof Sunscreen
• Sunglasses with Strap
• Ball Cap
• A Change of Clothes
• Towel
• Plastic Bag for Wet Clothes
• Small Amount of Money for Refreshments at the End of Trip
• Camera – Waterproof Digital Camera
• Special Medication

• Wallets, Jewelry, and Watches – Leave all valuables at home or locked in car at outpost.
• Flip Flops
• Non-Waterproof Electronic Devices
• Pets
• Cotton Clothing Items – Cotton dries very slowly and actually draws heat away from your body
• Cigarettes – High Mountain Expeditions is a Smoke-Free Company