Learn to Kayak

Swiftwater Rescue

Private Instruction

The Nation's Best
Canoe & Kayak Instruction

Whether you are a beginner trying out a new sport, a paddling enthusiast looking to advance your skills, or an outdoor professional requiring certification, NOC’s celebrated Paddling School provides stop-notch courses with the best instructors in the business. Voted "Best Place to Learn" by Outside, NOC has taught more paddlers than anyone else, with 40+ years of experience going into every class. We offer course criteria for groups or individuals across many craft and skill levels to help you achieve your goals.

Courses

Paddling
Skills

From beginner to advanced, single-day or multi-day, we have the course for you!

View Courses

Youth
Programs

NOC Summer Camps are great experiences for kids to learn paddling.

View Courses

Professional
Training

Learn the skills needed for teaching and rescue certification.

View Courses

Create Your Next River Story

Paddling School Reviews

"I choose the NOC Paddling School because of the proximity of several fun rivers, top of the line gear, and exquisite care from instructors who are capable of pushing my students, while keeping them safe. The NOC Paddling School on the Nantahala River is located in a unique, magical gorge, and I love sharing this place. Nothing compares to the NOC!"
— Martha Muckleroy, Texas A&M

nocpaddlesports

Voted "the Best Place to Learn" by Outside Magazine, NOC's renowned Paddling School has taught more students than anyone else.

NOC Paddlesports

Custom Group Planning

Custom Group Planning allows courses to be tailored to your needs and schedule. We can accommodate groups
of friends & family or classes interested in half-day, one-day, or multi-day survival and outdoor skills courses.
Choose the course that best suits your needs!

Learn More

Connect With Us

Request Information

Individual Courses
Group Courses

Newsletter Sign Up