About NOC Gatlinburg
The Nantahala Outdoor Center's Great Outpost in downtown Gatlinburg is an 18,000-square-foot outdoor gear superstore sitting right at the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Named one of the "Best Outfitters on Earth" by National Geographic Adventure, NOC stocks premium gear from brands like The North Face, Patagonia, Columbia, Osprey, Keen, Chaco, Merrell, and Outdoor Research — covering everything a hiker, paddler, or climber could need for a day in the Smokies.
Beyond the retail floor, the Great Outpost doubles as an adventure booking hub where staff can arrange guided whitewater rafting trips on the Upper and Lower Pigeon River, often at exclusive in-store discount rates. The location also features a 25-foot indoor climbing wall, a swinging rope bridge on the second floor, a kid-friendly "bear cave" exploration area, and a cozy fireplace lounge — making it as much an attraction as it is a gear shop. Trained boot-fitting specialists are on hand to ensure your hiking footwear feels custom from the first trail.
Located at 1138 Parkway in the heart of the Gatlinburg strip, the Great Outpost is open daily and serves as a natural first stop for visitors heading into the national park. The staff are avid Smokies adventurers who can recommend the best trails, put-in points, and climbing routes for any skill level or time frame. Whether you need a last-minute rain jacket, want to rent a child carrier for a family hike, or are looking to book a full-day rafting excursion, NOC Gatlinburg brings the resources of one of America's most storied outdoor centers to a single convenient downtown location.
