Outdoor Adventure Rentals

Renting Outdoor Gear in the NC Smokies

Bryson City, nestled in the heart of the North Carolina Smokies, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re exploring the lush landscapes or navigating the rushing rivers, having the right gear is essential for making the most of your adventure. Fortunately, Bryson City has a variety of rental options to help you enjoy these activities at your own pace. Here are some great places to rent outdoor equipment:

Bike Rentals

For those who love to explore on two wheels, Bryson City offers several bike rental shops. You can find mountain bikes for rugged trails or cruisers for a more leisurely ride around town. These shops often provide maps and guidance on the best routes to suit your skill level.

Water Adventure Rentals

If you’re drawn to the water, you’ll find plenty of rental options for duckies (inflatable kayaks), rafts, tubes, paddle boards, and kayaks. Here is a list of popular water sports rental services:

  • Nantahala Outdoor Center: Known for its extensive selection of watercraft and gear, this center also offers guided rafting trips for those seeking a more structured experience.
  • Tuckaseegee Outfitters: Offers tube and kayak rentals, perfect for enjoying a lazy float down the Tuckaseegee River.

UTV Rentals

For a thrilling off-road experience, renting a UTV (Utility Task Vehicle) can be an exciting way to explore the Smokies’ rugged terrains. These vehicles are perfect for navigating off-the-beaten-path trails and experiencing the wilderness from a new perspective.

Guided Tours

If you prefer a guided experience, many of these rental businesses also offer tours. Whether you’re interested in a guided rafting trip, a mountain biking adventure, or a scenic UTV tour, professional guides can enhance your experience with local knowledge and expertise.

Additional Tips

  • Plan Ahead: It’s a good idea to book your rentals in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
  • Check Weather Conditions: The Smokies’ weather can be unpredictable, so ensure your plans align with current conditions for a safe and enjoyable experience.
  • Safety First: Always prioritize safety by following all recommended guidelines and using provided safety gear.

With so many options available, renting outdoor gear in Bryson City is a breeze. Whether you’re riding the trails or paddling down a river, having access to quality equipment ensures your adventure in the NC Smokies is memorable and fun.

Paddle, Raft, Bike, Tube, Ride!

1) Appalachian Rivers Raft Co., Inc.

Offering exciting and enjoyable whitewater activities for families and groups since 1979. Featuring excellent equipment and a courteous, professional staff and very reasonable rates. We invite you to come and enjoy the river in one of our self-bailing rafts or funyaks. For the inexperienced, we offer guide-assisted or fully guided trips. Contact us soon and join the fun!!

2) Carolina Bound Adventures Rentals

Try our kayak rentals or paddle board rentals on beautiful Fontana Lake! Enjoy the Great Smoky Mountains scenery, explore the inlets and coves and the many islands formed from the former mountain peaks. Relax and take a lunch! Carolina Bound Adventures will meet you at the lake with the equipment. You show up and have all the fun! No experience required, 250 lb. weight limit.

3) Smoky Mtn. Campground/Deep Creek Store & Tubes

Located on West Deep Creek just 50 yards from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, our family friendly campground has been in operation since 1957. We offer 5 creekside sites with 30 amp hookup and 12 creekside sites with 50 amp hookup. Also available are 10 land sites; 2 with 30 amp and 3 with 50. Hot showers are available for our campers and we also have a campground store and tube rental on site, with campers receiving a discount on tube rental. Pets are accepted after a conversation with the owners. WIFI available at store. Open from April 1 to October 31.

4) Smoky Mountain River Adventures

Smoky Mountain River Adventures specializes in whitewater rafting trips for the whole family. The Tuckaseegee River is the only river in Western North Carolina that can host children as young as 4 years old. Come enjoy your day on the river with us!

5) Smoky Mountain Tube and Raft

Smoky Mountain Tube and Raft offers tube and raft trips for all ages – and with drop off and pick up, there’s no easier way to enjoy a cool and refreshing float along the tranquil Oconaluftee River in Cherokee.

6) GTR Adventures

Safety comes first in our family-owned business! Our SxS rentals which come equipped with seatbelts, whip lights, light bars, Bluetooth, radio, and navigation. Our rental fleet is comprised of brand new 2022 Yahamas Rmax and Honda Talons, with two and four seats available, street legal and off road capable. Free half hour tour guide available by appointment. From tours to rentals, we’ve got everything you need for your next outdoor adventure!

7) Nantahala Outdoor Center Rentals

Explore Fontana Lake with our flatwater rentals — stand-up paddleboards or sit on top kayaks in both single or tandem. All gear is supplied, with trips departing directly from NOC’s main campus. Paddle the scenic Nantahala River with our raft and ducky rentals. NOC provides high-quality boats for any size group, all the gear you need including paddles and pfds, pre-trip safety talk and a shuttle to the put in. Hit the local trails with our mountain bike rentals. Enjoy both Flint Ridge Trails right on NOC’s main campus or experience the well-known Flint Ridge System just a short drive away.

8) Wildwater-Nantahala Gorge Adventure Center

Fully guided and rental inflatable kayak and raft trips available. A family-owned business since 1971, Wildwater runs on the Nantahala, Ocoee, Pigeon, and Chattooga Rivers. A complete adventure destination-Zipline Canopy Tours, half-day Jeep® Tours, full-day Rails & Trails, and Raft & Rail© since 1988. Wildwater offers 100% quality service guarantee. On site lodging in unique Yurt Cabins or economical Group Lodge at our Falling Waters Adventure Resort. WIFI for guests.

9) Paddle Inn Rafting Company

We offer guided, guide assisted, and be your own boss (Rentals.) We have Funyaks, Pumas, Self Bailers and regular rafts. Enjoy our riverfront cabins, RV sites and group tenting areas. We want to share our passion for the river with you and we take pride in our customer service. You are our number one concern. Near Bryson City, open April-Nov. Also open by advance reservation Nov. – April.

10) Deep Creek Lodge/Creekside Tubing

You can’t get any closer to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park! Located at the Deep Creek entrance, The Lodge offers one or two bedroom efficiency rooms, kitchen/dinette/living room, queen size bed, large sitting porch, beautiful view. Or enjoy the two bedroom cabin located directly on the creek. Group rates available with the Lodge. Tube rentals and Moon Goddess Burgers & Shakes on premises.

11) Adventurous Fast Rivers Rafting

Experience the beauty and adventure of whitewater on the Nantahala River. We are family owned and located directly on river. Our specialty is giving economical prices with the very best in personal service, equipment, facilities, and staff. No experience necessary. Guided & unguided trips available March through October. Walk-ins are welcome or call to reserve your adventure. We look forward to seeing you on the river with us!