If you love mountain getaways that are packed with adventure, it’s time you head to the Western North Carolina mountains near Saluda and Asheville. These mountains offer outdoor excitement and small-town charm, not to mention exciting activities like kayaking or rafting through the Green River Gorge! The Green River Gorge NC is a dynamic playground for both seasoned whitewater enthusiasts and those looking for a milder, scenic float.
The Upper Green offers a laid-back paddle or tubing experience perfect for beginners, while the Narrows section, which just so happens to be one of the most respected stretches of whitewater in the South, delivers adrenaline-pumping rapids and steep, technical drops. Our friends at Green River Adventures provide expert guidance for everything from green river tubing to green river kayaking excursions (and more!). If you’re looking for even more adrenaline-packed adventures, try The Gorge Zipline, one of the steepest and fastest zipline canopy tours in the country. With stunning mountain backdrops and thrilling descents, it’s an adventure you’ll be talking about long after your trip ends.
Of course, there’s more to this region than whitewater and zip lines. Western North Carolina is a hub for hiking, fly-fishing, mountain biking, local art, and craft beer. Spend your days discovering the area’s dramatic ridgelines, cascading waterfalls, and hardwood forests, and you’ll quickly see why so many visitors fall for this corner of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Stroll the galleries and boutiques in nearby Saluda, sample locally-sourced dishes in Asheville’s acclaimed restaurants, or take a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Whatever you do here, we know you’ll fall in love with the Western North Carolina mountains as much as we have. After a day of exploration, retreat to the refined comfort of our charming Saluda Bed and Breakfast in North Carolina. Enjoy panoramic mountain views, a gourmet dinner, and perhaps a massage to round out your day. Whether you’re after the rush of green river rafting or a quiet morning on the porch with a cup of coffee, this region is the secluded mountain getaway you’ve dreamed of. Book your stay today!
The Best Green River Gorge Kayaking
Kayaking the Green River Gorge near Saluda is one of the most unforgettable outdoor experiences in Western North Carolina. The river is divided into three main sections—Upper, Middle, and the Narrows. Each section of the river offers a different level of challenge and scenery. If you’re new to kayaking or looking for a laid-back day on the water, the Upper Green is ideal. With gentle Class I and II rapids and plenty of flatwater, it’s perfect for tubing or a peaceful paddle through lush, shaded canyons.
For a Green River Gorge kayaking experience that lies more in the middle, the Lower Green (sometimes grouped with the Middle section) provides a fun run of moderate Class II and III rapids that are great for adventurous beginners or those with some paddling experience. The real draw for expert paddlers is the Green River Narrows (Upper Green River)*, a narrow, steep section known for its intense Class IV and V rapids. This stretch is not for the faint of heart, but it’s world-renowned in the whitewater community for its drops, technical maneuvers, and epic scenery.
If you’re not a pro, don’t worry! There’s no need to go it alone. Green River Adventures, based in nearby Saluda, offers guided whitewater kayak trips, inflatable kayak adventures, and even rappelling experiences down steep canyon walls in the Green River Gorge. Their team of seasoned guides can tailor your outing to match your comfort level, so whether you’re looking to push your limits or just enjoy the ride, you’re in good hands.
You’ll want to come prepared for whatever adventure you choose in the Green River Gorge. Proper footwear (no flip-flops), a quick-drying outfit, and a sense of adventure are essential. Most outfitters provide gear like helmets, life vests, and boats, but it’s wise to confirm what’s included in your booking. Water levels vary depending on the schedule of dam releases from Lake Summit, which controls the river’s flow. That means conditions on the Green River, North Carolina, can change quickly. This is another reason that booking with a local guide who knows the river’s rhythms is key. Spring through early fall is the most popular season, though paddlers with the right gear and grit hit the water year-round.
Don’t Miss The Gorge Zipline
There’s more to do around the Green River Gorge than just paddling (or tubing!). The area is a haven for thrill-seekers, especially at The Gorge Zipline, a high-adrenaline course that sends you soaring down 1,100 vertical feet over treetops, ravines, and the river itself. With 11 ziplines, three rappels, and a sky bridge, it’s one of the most exciting ways to take in the gorge’s natural beauty. Hikers will find plenty of trails snaking along the river and nearby ridgelines, offering views of waterfalls, rock outcroppings, and dense Appalachian forest. Whether you’re zipping through the canopy or hiking to a quiet overlook, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy this wild and beautiful stretch of Western North Carolina.
*The trip on the Upper Green River and some of the hiking trails in the area are currently unavailable after Hurricane Helene. Check the status before you go, but we hope these adventures are open again soon!
The Best Boutique Hotel in Saluda, NC
After a full day of whitewater thrills, zipline flights, or scenic hikes through the Green River Gorge, there’s nothing better than returning to a mountain retreat that feels worlds away. Our Boutique Hotel in Saluda, perched just above town, offers guests plenty of balance for their North Carolina getaway; an experience replete with rustic charm and thoughtful luxury. Whether you’re sipping wine on the expansive porch, lounging in one of the cozy yet refined guest rooms, or unwinding in the spa with a massage, you’ll feel genuinely taken care of.
Breakfast here is delicious, always fresh, seasonal, and crafted with care. In the evening, the on-site restaurant, Newman’s, serves elevated farm-to-table cuisine that draws guests and locals alike. Whether you’re here for a romantic getaway, an outdoor adventure, or a quiet solo recharge, our hotel in Saluda offers an unbeatable place to recharge.
The views stretch across the western North Carolina mountains, offering an ever-changing backdrop that makes even downtime feel like an experience. Our Inn does a remarkable job of capturing the essence of the region: a welcoming atmosphere, exceptional hospitality, and a deep connection to the land and seasons. Not only that, but our Inn is the perfect basecamp for everything from green river kayaking to green river zipline excursions, should you decide a little thrill is in order.
With easy access to Saluda’s shops and galleries, proximity to top outfitters like Green River Adventures, and endless trails and overlooks nearby, it’s easy to build your ideal mountain itinerary. And when the day is done, there’s no better place to rest, reflect, and enjoy the peaceful mountain air. Book your summer getaway today!
