What to Do During Fall at USA Raft Adventure Resort

Nestled in the heart of Northeast Tennessee’s Nolichucky River Gorge, USA Raft Adventure Resort is the perfect place to experience the beauty of fall. With its stunning scenery, abundant activities, and cozy accommodations, the resort offers something for everyone.

Beautiful Fall Leaf Color Change in Southern Appalachia

One of the best things about fall in the Southeast is the breathtaking foliage. The Nolichucky River Gorge is home to a variety of trees, including maples, oaks, and hickories, which turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow in the fall. Guests at USA Raft Adventure Resort can enjoy the fall foliage from the comfort of their cabin, while hiking on the Appalachian Trail, or while rafting on the Nolichucky River.

Hiking

Unicoi County is one of the best places to hike in Northeast Tennessee. The Appalachian Mountains, directly accessible from USA Raft Adventure Resort, national forest, and state park provide stunning backdrops for the local hiking trails and greenways in the area, many of which offer stunning views. Hikes can range from short trails perfect for the whole family to incredible day hikes or multi-day backpacking trips. These are some of the best hikes in Unicoi County.

Caving

USA Raft Adventure Resort offers guided tours of Worley’s Cave, a beautiful cave with a variety of formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstone. The cave is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bats and salamanders. The cave stays a comfortable 55-degree temperature, making it a great activity anytime of the year.

Food, Drink, and Football at Take Out Tavern

After a long day of hiking, rafting, or caving, there’s nothing better than relaxing at the Take Out Tavern, USA Raft Adventure Resort’s riverside restaurant and bar. The tavern offers a variety of craft beers and other beverages, as well as a delicious menu of food, including our soon-to-be-famous smashburger. Guests can also enjoy watching football on the big screen TVs during football season.

Fall Rafting

Fall is a great time to go rafting and paddleboarding on the Nolichucky River. The water levels are typically lower in the fall, which makes the rapids more challenging and exciting. USA Raft Adventure Resort offers a variety of rafting trips and paddleboard tours, ranging from family-friendly to thrilling whitewater rafting.

Fishing

The Nolichucky River is a wonderful fishing destination, and fall is one of the best times to fish. The smallmouth bass are particularly active in the fall as they prepare for the winter. Anglers also often catch trout in the Nolichucky River.

Glamping

USA Raft Adventure Resort offers a variety of glamping accommodations, including geodesic domes, beautiful cabins, renovated Airstreams, and more. Glamping is a great way to experience the outdoors without having to sacrifice comfort.

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Closed for 2025

The obstacles to opening USA Raft Adventure Resort for the 2025 Season have simply overwhelmed our desire and work to re-open. Jones Branch Rd remains significantly damaged preventing heavy equipment access to the resort needed to complete major repairs. While we are excited to share the new and amazing Nolichucky River with you but must finish the dirty work of rebuilding.

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Love to all and especially those who’s lives were changed by Helene.

Inquiries may be sent to info@usaraft.com

USA Raft Post-Helene damage