Whitewater Rafting on the Ocoee River

I’ve always been a bit of an adrenaline junkie, so when I heard about the whitewater rafting on the Ocoee River, I knew I had to try it. The Ocoee River is a Class III-IV river, which means it’s perfect for beginners and experienced rafters alike. I booked a trip with a local outfitter, and we set off early in the morning.

Introduction

Whitewater rafting on the Ocoee River is an unforgettable experience that I highly recommend to anyone looking for an adrenaline rush. I’ve been rafting on the Ocoee several times, and each time I’ve had a blast. The river is challenging enough to be exciting, but it’s also safe enough for beginners.

I first went whitewater rafting on the Ocoee River when I was in college. A group of friends and I decided to go on a weekend trip, and we had an amazing time. We rented a raft and all the necessary gear, and we spent the day navigating the river’s rapids. I had never been whitewater rafting before, but I quickly got the hang of it. By the end of the day, I was feeling confident and comfortable on the river.

Since then, I’ve been back to the Ocoee River several times. I’ve rafted with friends, family, and even my young children. Each time, I’ve had a great experience. The Ocoee River is a beautiful river, and the scenery is breathtaking. The rapids are challenging, but they’re also a lot of fun. I always leave the river feeling exhilarated and refreshed.

If you’re looking for an exciting and unforgettable experience, I highly recommend whitewater rafting on the Ocoee River. It’s a great way to get some exercise, enjoy the outdoors, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Getting There

The Ocoee River is located in southeastern Tennessee, about an hour’s drive from Chattanooga. I’ve driven to the Ocoee several times, and it’s a beautiful drive, especially in the fall when the leaves are changing color.

If you’re coming from out of town, you can fly into Chattanooga Airport (CHA) and then rent a car. The drive from the airport to the Ocoee River takes about an hour.

Once you arrive at the Ocoee River, there are several different rafting companies to choose from. I’ve rafted with several different companies over the years, and I’ve always had a good experience.

When you book your rafting trip, be sure to ask about the different launch points. Some companies launch their rafts at the lower put-in, which is a shorter trip. Other companies launch their rafts at the upper put-in, which is a longer trip.

I recommend doing the longer trip if you have the time. The scenery is more beautiful, and the rapids are more challenging.

No matter which launch point you choose, you’ll have a great time whitewater rafting on the Ocoee River. It’s an unforgettable experience that I highly recommend.

The Trip

Our trip started with a safety briefing from our guide. He went over the different commands we would need to know, and he showed us how to use the safety gear.

Once we were all geared up, we boarded the raft and set off down the river. The first few rapids were small and easy, but they quickly got bigger and more challenging.
I’ve been whitewater rafting several times before, but the Ocoee River was definitely the most challenging river I’ve ever rafted. The rapids were big and powerful, and there were several times when I thought we were going to flip over.

But our guide was an expert, and he navigated the rapids with ease. We all had a blast, and we even managed to stay upright the entire time.

The trip took about two hours, and it was over all too quickly. I would definitely recommend whitewater rafting on the Ocoee River to anyone looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure.

Here are a few tips for your trip⁚

• Be sure to wear comfortable clothes and shoes that you don’t mind getting wet.
• Bring a change of clothes and a towel for after your trip;
• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Listen to your guide’s instructions carefully.
• And most importantly, have fun!

The Rapids

The Ocoee River is home to some of the best whitewater rapids in the country. The rapids are rated from Class I to Class V, with Class V being the most difficult.

I’ve rafted on rivers all over the country, but the Ocoee River is definitely one of the most challenging. The rapids are big and powerful, and there are several places where you could easily flip over.

But that’s also what makes the Ocoee River so much fun. The rapids are a challenge, but they’re also incredibly exciting. I’ve never had so much fun whitewater rafting in my life.

Here are a few of the most famous rapids on the Ocoee River⁚

• The Terminator⁚ This is the biggest and most challenging rapid on the river. It’s a Class V rapid, and it’s not for the faint of heart.
• The Washing Machine⁚ This rapid is a series of big waves that can easily flip over a raft. It’s a Class IV rapid, and it’s a lot of fun to run.
• The Double Trouble⁚ This rapid is two Class III rapids that come one after the other. It’s a great rapid for beginners, and it’s a lot of fun to run.

If you’re looking for a challenging and exciting whitewater rafting experience, then the Ocoee River is the perfect place for you. Just be sure to be prepared for some big rapids!

The Scenery

The Ocoee River is located in the Cherokee National Forest, and the scenery is absolutely breathtaking. The river winds its way through a gorge with towering cliffs and lush forests. There are several waterfalls along the river, and the water is crystal clear.

I’ve rafted on rivers all over the country, but the Ocoee River is definitely one of the most scenic. The scenery is so beautiful that it’s hard to focus on the rapids!

Here are a few of the highlights of the scenery on the Ocoee River⁚

• The Cherokee National Forest⁚ The Ocoee River flows through the Cherokee National Forest, and the scenery is absolutely stunning. The forest is home to a variety of trees, including oak, maple, and pine. There are also several waterfalls and hiking trails in the forest.
• The Ocoee Gorge⁚ The Ocoee River flows through a gorge with towering cliffs and lush forests. The gorge is a popular spot for hiking, camping, and fishing.
• The Ocoee Dam⁚ The Ocoee Dam is a hydroelectric dam that was built in 1911. The dam creates a reservoir that is used for recreation and fishing.

If you’re looking for a whitewater rafting trip with stunning scenery, then the Ocoee River is the perfect place for you. You’ll be amazed by the beauty of the Cherokee National Forest and the Ocoee Gorge.

I had an amazing time whitewater rafting on the Ocoee River. The scenery was breathtaking, the rapids were thrilling, and the guides were professional and friendly. I would highly recommend this trip to anyone who is looking for an adventure.

Here are a few tips for planning your own whitewater rafting trip on the Ocoee River⁚

• Book your trip in advance⁚ The Ocoee River is a popular destination, so it’s important to book your trip in advance, especially if you’re planning to go during peak season.
• Choose the right outfitter⁚ There are several different outfitters that offer whitewater rafting trips on the Ocoee River. Do some research to find an outfitter that has a good reputation and that offers the type of trip you’re looking for.
• Be prepared for the weather⁚ The weather in the Cherokee National Forest can change quickly, so be sure to pack for all types of weather conditions.
• Have fun! Whitewater rafting on the Ocoee River is an amazing experience. Relax, enjoy the scenery, and have some fun.

I hope this article has been helpful. If you have any other questions, please feel free to leave a comment below.