Company Research Report: Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC)
Company Overview
- Name: Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC)
- Mission: To inspire a spirit of adventure, cultivate a deep sense of pride in natural heritage, and kindle a passion for the preservation of precious resources.
- Founded: 1972
- Founders: Payson & Aurelia Kennedy and Horace Holden Sr.
- Key People: No specific key leaders or executives identified in the provided data.
- Headquarters: Bryson City, North Carolina
- Number of Employees: Not specified
- Revenue: No information is available
- Notable: Known for being a leading outdoor recreation organization, NOC is celebrated for connecting people with nature through its operations across the Southeast with over 120 itineraries.
Products and Services
Nantahala Outdoor Center offers a diverse range of products and services spanning outdoor adventure experiences, educational courses, and retail operations.
Adventure and Outdoor Experiences
- Whitewater Rafting: Guided trips on various rivers including the Nantahala, Chattooga, and Ocoee.
- Zip Lining: Includes the Mountaintop Zip Line Tour through the Smoky Mountain skies.
- Mountain Biking: Guided experiences on local trails such as Tsali.
- Hiking: Includes guided adventures in areas like the Smoky Mountains.
Courses and Training
- Paddling Courses: Training in kayaking, canoeing, and solo Southeast courses.
- Wilderness First Aid (WFA) Certification: Offered at multiple locations.
- Emergency Medical Technician (EMT): Comprehensive training in Bryson City, NC.
- Guide School 2025: A program for training future outdoor adventure guides.
Lodging and Dining
- Accommodations: Various lodging options including bungalows like The Hemlocks Mountainside in Bryson City, NC.
- Dining: Riverside dining at River's End Restaurant, offering cozy environments with a view.
Recent Developments
- New Products: Introduction of courses such as the packrafting paddling courses. Also, new packages like "Pedal & Paddle: Guided Rafting & Mountain Biking Package".
- New Features: Development of combo packages integrating zip lining, rafting, and other adventures for a comprehensive adventure experience.
Frequent collaborations with partners like Coca-Cola and New Belgium for beverages across all locations, ensuring customer refreshment after activities.
Partnerships and Community Involvement
- Key Partners:
- Coca-Cola: Provides refreshments across river and retail locations.
- New Belgium: For quality beer offerings.
- Blue Lizard Sunscreen: Partners for protection against sun-related challenges during outdoor activities.
- Environmental Efforts:
- Engaged with organizations such as American Whitewater, American Rivers, and more for environmental stewardship.
- Supports initiatives like Outdoor NC - Leave No Trace to promote responsible outdoor behavior.
This report provides a concise yet comprehensive overview of the Nantahala Outdoor Center, detailing its offerings, mission, and contributions to the outdoor adventure industry. It showcases the center's capability to provide rich, immersive experiences while maintaining a strong commitment to environmental conservation and education.
