Bryson City is a fantastic base for exploring the North Carolina mountains, especially if you’re into outdoor adventures and authentic local experiences. Its location close to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park makes it ideal for those looking to combine scenic beauty with active pursuits. Whether you want thrilling whitewater trips, soaring across treetops on a zip line, or visiting local breweries, Bryson City offers a variety of tours that cater to different interests. One standout is the Nantahala River Guided Whitewater Rafting Trip, which combines fun rapids with peaceful mountain views—perfect for families or beginners.
If you’re after a high-altitude thrill, the Mountaintop Zip Line Experience provides almost 2 miles of zip lines, including a 2,000-foot Mega-Zip flying above the Blue Ridge Mountains. For a taste of the wild side—and some good-humored Bigfoot hunting—the Bigfoot & Breweries Tour guarantees a day of wilderness adventure combined with tasting local beers. With this range of options, Bryson City truly offers something for every outdoor enthusiast and curious traveler.
Quick Overview
In this list, you’ll find rafting adventures on the Nantahala River, including guided trips and ducky rentals, as well as zip line adventures that send you soaring among tree canopies. If waterfalls are your thing, guided hikes covering 11 falls will impress, along with scenic kayak tours on Fontana Lake. For those interested in mountain biking, Tsali Recreation Area offers guided trail rides with stunning views. Food and drink lovers can indulge in brewery tours, or combine waterfalls with wine tastings in full-day excursions. The options below detail each tour’s highlights, costs, and what makes them special.
1. Bryson City: Nantahala River Guided Whitewater Rafting Trip
This family-friendly whitewater rafting trip on the famous Nantahala River is a top choice for those wanting a controlled, fun introduction to river adventures. Priced at $64 per person for around 3 hours, it’s perfect for beginners and groups of any experience level. The trip features a mix of class II-III rapids, waves, and splashes, making it exciting but manageable. The guide will take you through some of the most scenic sections of the river, including calmer spots that let you soak in the mountain scenery.
What makes this tour stand out is its balance of adventure and relaxation, especially for families with kids or first-timers. The guide’s friendly approach and clear instructions ensure everyone feels safe, while the stunning mountain backdrop keeps the experience authentic. The 4.6-star rating from 25 reviews underscores its popularity, with many visitors praising the staff’s professionalism and the overall fun. The trip is a great value, offering a memorable taste of whitewater without a huge price tag.
Bottom Line: Ideal for beginners and families, this trip combines fun rapids with scenic calm moments—an excellent introduction to whitewater rafting.
2. Bryson City: Mountaintop Zip Line Experience
For those who want to fly through the treetops, the Mountaintop Zip Line Experience is a must-do. At $109 per person for roughly 2.5 to 3 hours, it’s a premier zip lining adventure that offers nearly 2 miles of adrenaline-pumping rides. The highlight is the Mega-Zip, which soars 2,000 feet above the Blue Ridge Mountains—an unforgettable view and thrill.
This tour is the North Carolina Outer Banks’ premier zip lining experience, exploring stunning scenery from platform to platform. Guides are seasoned professionals, ensuring safety while delivering an exhilarating experience. The course is designed for all ages and fitness levels, with multiple zip lines and adventure elements. The reviews are glowing, emphasizing the breathtaking views and the sense of freedom flying through the air.
Bottom Line: If soaring above mountain forests with spectacular scenery sounds like your kind of fun, this zip line tour is a top pick.
3. Bryson City: Bigfoot & Breweries Tour
A full-day that blends wilderness adventure with craft beer tasting, the Bigfoot & Breweries Tour is unlike any other. For $174 per person, you’ll go on a guided Bigfoot search, led by experienced research rangers, then visit some of the best breweries in Western North Carolina. The tour lasts about 9 hours, making it a full immersion into local culture and myths.
What makes this tour special is its uniqueness—it’s the only Bigfoot tour in the North Carolina Great Smoky Mountains. Plus, you get the benefit of having a designated driver while tasting local brews. The combination of outdoor exploration and craft beer makes it perfect for those looking to combine adventure with relaxation. With a single review rating of 5/5, it appears to be a favorite, especially for those curious about cryptids and local flavors.
Bottom Line: Best suited for curious explorers who enjoy a mix of outdoor hunts and craft beer, this tour provides a full day of fun and folklore.
$174 per person
4. Bryson City: Nantahala River Rafting Guided Duck Adventure
For a more hands-on experience, the Nantahala River Guided Duck Adventure is perfect. Priced at $75 for 3 hours, you’ll paddle your inflatable kayak alongside a professional guide, practicing paddling techniques on class II-III rapids. It combines the thrill of whitewater with the chance to learn new skills.
The tour’s highlight is navigating Nantahala Falls and enjoying splashes and waves along the way. The boats are top-quality, suited for both single and tandem paddlers, making it accessible for beginners and more experienced paddlers alike. The reviews praise the guides and the fun, active pace of the trip. This tour is great if you want to take control and get closer to the water while still having expert guidance.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers seeking a guided paddling experience that’s both fun and educational.
$75 per person
5. Bryson City: Zip Line Adventure Park Pass with Gear
If the idea of zipping into the forest canopy appeals but you want to explore at your own pace, the Zip Line Adventure Park Pass offers just that. At $55 per person for 2 hours, you get access to over 16 obstacles and dual 550-foot zip lines. It’s a playful, physically engaging experience suitable for all ages.
The course is equipped with auto-belay technology, allowing you to zip at your convenience while guided by certified aerial guides. Set under the forest canopy, it provides a fun opportunity to challenge yourself and enjoy the natural environment. Many reviewers highlight the safety features and the variety of obstacles, making it a safe choice for families or thrill-seekers.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a self-paced aerial challenge in a safe, forested setting.
$55 per person
6. Bryson City: NOC Rafting & Ducky Kayak Rentals
For flexible paddling options, the NOC Rafting & Ducky Kayak Rentals give you the freedom to explore Nantahala River at your own pace. At $44 per person for 4 hours, you can choose between rafting or inflatable kayaks, with all equipment provided.
This tour allows you to feel the thrill of rapid navigation while also enjoying peaceful floating sections. It’s especially good for those who want to stop, swim, or surf along the way. The rental includes a pre-trip orientation and shuttle service, simplifying the logistics. Reviewers appreciate the variety of boat sizes and the opportunity to customize your river experience.
Bottom Line: A flexible alternative for those who prefer to paddle solo or with friends, with the added bonus of full control over your adventure.
7. Bryson City: Chasing Waterfalls Guided Hiking Tour
Hiking enthusiasts will love this full-day Chasing Waterfalls Guided Hiking Tour. Covering 11 waterfalls, the tour lasts around 8 hours and includes a guided drive through Western North Carolina. The hikes involve rock scrambling and bushwhacking, making it suitable for active travelers.
The tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides who share insights about the local flora, fauna, and geology. It’s a great way to combine physical activity with sightseeing—perfect if you’re keen on exploring multiple waterfalls in one day. The small-group format and emphasis on safety make it accessible, but some hikes may be challenging for those with limited mobility.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for active travelers who want a full immersion in waterfall exploration and mountain scenery.
$139 per person
8. Bryson City: Guided Sunset Kayaking Tour on Fontana Lake
Wind down your day with the Guided Sunset Kayaking Tour, priced at $94 for 2.5 hours. Paddling Fontana Lake at dusk provides a peaceful, almost meditative experience. The tour includes interpretive commentary from guides about the area’s history and natural features, making it both relaxing and educational.
All necessary equipment is provided, and no prior kayaking experience is required. Many reviewers highlight the calm waters and stunning sunset views, making it an ideal way to end a busy day. It’s suited for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a gentle adventure.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a relaxing evening paddle with scenic views and insights into local history.
$94 per person
9. Bryson City: Guided Waterfalls Hike
This Guided Waterfalls Hike offers a 3-hour journey through the Smoky Mountains, visiting some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the region. Led by friendly, highly rated guides who have been providing great experiences for over 7 years, the hike is tailored to your physical needs.
The tour provides insights into the geology and ecology of the park while giving you the chance to see spectacular waterfalls. It’s suitable for most fitness levels, but some walking and scrambling are involved. The focus on education and safety makes it a memorable outdoor activity.
Bottom Line: An excellent way for nature lovers to see waterfalls up close with expert guidance.
$97 per person
10. Bryson City: Tsali Recreation Area Guided Mountain Bike Tour
For mountain biking fans, the Tsali Recreation Area Guided Tour offers a 3.5-hour ride on well-maintained trails. The tour uses industry-leading bikes and is led by guides with extensive trail knowledge. The routes are moderate but scenic, offering views of Fontana Lake and the surrounding mountains.
Stops for snacks and photo opportunities keep the ride engaging. The trails are maintained by the National Park Service, ensuring a high-quality experience. Reviewers appreciate the professional instruction and the scenic overlooks. It’s perfect for intermediate riders looking for a half-day of active fun.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want guided mountain biking with scenic river and mountain vistas.
$104 per person
11. Bryson City: Waterfalls and Breweries Tour
Combine nature and local flavor with this Waterfalls and Breweries Tour. Over about 9 hours, you’ll visit four waterfalls with some hiking involved, then relax at four breweries, all with your own personal driver. The tour is designed for those wanting a full day of diverse experiences.
It’s a great option for lovers of both scenic landscapes and craft beer. The tour costs $149 per person and includes transportation, ensuring you can enjoy tastings without worry. The balance of active sightseeing and relaxed tasting makes it popular, especially since it’s considered the #1 tour by many.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a mix of outdoor adventure and beer tasting, all at a comfortable pace.
$149 per person
12. Bryson City: Waterfalls & Wineries Tour
For a full day of scenic splendor, the Waterfalls & Wineries Tour combines hiking to waterfalls with visits to Western North Carolina wineries. The 8-hour tour is guided, with transportation and wine tastings included.
This tour appeals to those interested in wine and scenic landscapes. The visits to three wineries include insights into regional wine-making, with tastings included. It’s suited for leisurely walkers and wine enthusiasts who enjoy learning about local wines while exploring the mountains.
Bottom Line: A relaxed, full-day experience for wine lovers who want to combine scenic hikes with wine tastings.
$139 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend. For thrill-seeking adventurers, the whitewater rafting and zip line tours offer adrenaline-pumping fun. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, the sunset kayaking or waterfalls hikes might suit you better. For those interested in local culture, the brewery and wine tours provide tasty insights.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular options like zip lining or full-day tours. Think about combining a short adventure like the Duck Adventure with a relaxing activity such as the kayaking to maximize your experience.
Final Thoughts
Bryson City offers a fantastic array of outdoor and cultural tours that suit all tastes and fitness levels. Whether you’re after the thrill of whitewater, the serenity of mountain lakes, or the flavors of local breweries and wineries, you’ll find options that make your trip memorable. For most visitors, a combination of activities—like pairing the Waterfalls Hike with a brewery tour—can give a well-rounded taste of the area. Consider your preferences, plan ahead, and don’t forget to book early, especially for the most popular tours.
Enjoy your adventure in Bryson City—these tours promise to turn your visit into a true mountain experience you won’t forget.