NORA's First Descent of the Nolichucky Gorge After Hurricane Helene

In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene's devastating impact in September 2024, the Nolichucky River—a lifeline for our community—suffered unprecedented damage. Bridges were washed away, roads obliterated, and the river's course was left uncertain. Amidst this chaos, a team of experienced paddlers, many of whom would become the founding members of the Nolichucky Outdoor Recreation Association (NORA), undertook a critical mission: to navigate the altered waters of the Nolichucky Gorge, assess the damage, and search for any potential survivors.​

On October 2, 2024, our team launched from the Poplar put-in. The journey was fraught with challenges. The river's landscape had been dramatically reshaped—familiar rapids had transformed, new obstacles had emerged, rails and debris littered the waterway. Each bend in the river presented unknown dangers, but our team's expertise and unwavering commitment guided us through.​

Throughout the descent, we remained vigilant, scanning the banks and surrounding areas for any signs of stranded individuals. Thankfully, no survivors were found, but the expedition underscored the immense power of nature and the resilience required to navigate its aftermath.​

This pivotal journey not only highlighted the need for organized stewardship of the Nolichucky River but also solidified the bonds among our team members. It became a catalyst for the formation of NORA, uniting us with a shared mission to protect, preserve, and promote the Nolichucky and its surrounding environments.​

For a detailed account of this descent, you can read the full trip report on American Whitewater's website:

👉 American Whitewater – Nolichucky Post-Hurricane Descent​ - https://www.americanwhitewater.org/content/River/view/river-detail/1766/reports/EUsH7LcLJdmTiZnIi9w6x

As we reflect on that defining expedition, we are reminded of the river's enduring spirit and our responsibility to safeguard its future. NORA remains steadfast in our commitment to ensuring that the Nolichucky continues to be a source of adventure, solace, and inspiration for generations to come.