Duckies!

Question: What is a 'Duck or ThrillKat'?

A 'Duck' is a cross between a kayak and a raft. Stable, sturdy and easy to maneuver, ducks are a delightful way to paddle a river. ThrillKats are similar, but have 2 tubes, like a catamaran.

It doesn't take an expert boater to handle a ducky or ThrillKat. We offer ducks to first timers on many of our rivers. 

Double ducks are for 2 people and are only available on the Lower Nolichucky River.

1-866-USA-Raft or book online anytime.

Recommendations for duckies and ThrillKats*:

Lower Nolichucky River  Experience is not required for duckys. We recommend single ducky paddlers be ages 11+. Double duckiys are available on the Lower Nolichucky River.

French Broad River  Experience is not required for duckys. We recommend ducky paddlers be ages 13+. ***The 8 mile full day trip is a strenuous trip in a ducky. Double duckies are not available on the French Broad River.

Nolichucky River Gorge  Experience is not required for duckys. This is a strenuous trip. We recommend ducky paddlers be ages 14+, fit and adventurous! Double duckys are not available in the Nolichucky River Gorge.

Watauga River  A limited number of single and double ducks may be available on the day of your trip.

Nantahala River  Single and double duckys and/or ThrillKats are available for rental trips on the Nantahala River. We recommend single ducky paddlers be ages 12+.

Duckys are available subject to water levels the day of your trip.

Crockett Cabin & Bunkhouse.  Erwin, TN at the Nolichucky River Outpost. Large cabin for groups & families. Just bring a sleeping bag! $10 per person + tax.

USA Raft Nantahala River Outpost  Our Nantahala River Outpost offers a picnic areas and pavilion, volleyball court, retail store, hot showers, changing rooms and plenty of room to park.

Nantahala River Camping  Pitch your own tent. Open field camping is available at the Nantahala River Outpost. One night FREE open field camping with rafting trip! Additional open field camping is only $3.95 per person per night!

Nantahala River Tents on Platforms  Easy and economical camping in our pre-set tents on platforms is available. There are thick foam cushions for comfort! Only $6 per person per night. Just bring your sleeping bag!

Worley's Cave  Bluff City, TN. Ages 8+. Kids love Worley's Cave! Worley's Cave is an unspoiled, "wild cave" that is known for its voluminous size. Explore the beauty of natural cave features and formations, and learn a bit about the life and geology of an undeveloped limestone cave. Just $38.95 per person + tax. Experience is not required. Gear is provided.

Special #2

• 1/2 day Lower Nolichucky River with lunch on the river.
• 1/2 day Worley's Cave.
• 1 night lodging in Crockett Cabin.
• Reg. $104.90 + tax.
• Special: $79.00 + tax.
• No other discounts apply.
• 4+ people to book.
• Limited availability.
• Ages 8+.
• Reservations are required. 1-866-USA-Raft.

For a custom package, please call 1-866-USA-Raft with your specific dates and needs for rafting and/or caving, lodging and meals and we will provide you with a custom package price. E-mail

1-866-USA-Raft or book online anytime.

With over 30 years of experience, a rigorous raft guide training school and the best guides and gear on the river, USA Raft is the leading whitewater rafting outfitter in the Asheville & Boone, NC and Johnson City, TN region.

• Guides are skilled, friendly & fun!
• High performance self-bailing rafts and equipment.
• Permits & licenses with the US Forest Service.
• Recognized in: Men's Journal, American Scouting Digest, National Geographic Adventure, Pilots Away and Diversion Magazine for Physicians at Leisure.

"Your guides were outstanding. They were skilled, knowledgeable and fun!" - Wit Tuttell. Public Relations Director. NC Division of Tourism, Film and Sports Development.