The Full Ocoee River Whitewater Trip offers an exhilarating adventure for thrill-seekers. Navigating 10 miles of Class III/IV rapids through the picturesque Cherokee National Forest, you will test their skills and teamwork. With a riverside lunch and the chance to tackle notorious rapids like Mikeys and Godzilla, this guided tour promises an unforgettable day in nature. But what challenges and natural wonders await those who choose to embark on this whitewater journey?
This experience made our article of The 2 Top Lunch Experiences In Ocoee: Which Is Best?.
Key Points
- 6-hour whitewater rafting adventure through Cherokee National Forest with 10 miles of Class III/IV rapids featuring over 30 major rapids.
- Includes transportation, riverside lunch, and guided tour for participants aged 12 and older with life jackets up to 56 inches.
- Reservations with no upfront payment and flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
- Thrilling rapids like Mikeys, Godzilla, Humongous, and Hells Hole provide an unforgettable sense of accomplishment.
- Post-trip amenities include shuttle ride, hot showers, changing facilities, gift shop, covered picnic area, and onsite cafe.
Trip Overview
The Ocoee River Whitewater Trip offers a thrilling 6-hour adventure through the Cherokee National Forest, site of the 1996 Olympic whitewater competition.
Participants can expect to experience 10 miles of Class III/IV rapids, with over 30 major rapids including Mikeys, Godzilla, and Humongous.
This full-day excursion includes transportation, a riverside lunch, and a guided tour led by experienced professionals.
Adventurers must be at least 12 years old and able to fit in life jackets up to 56 inches.
Booking is easy, with no upfront payment required and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Looking for more options in Ocoee? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Booking Information
How does one go about booking the Ocoee River Whitewater Trip?
Reservations can be made easily with no upfront payment required. Simply reserve your spot and pay later.
The cancellation policy is flexible, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The trip is suitable for participants 12 years and older, with life jackets accommodating chest sizes up to 56 inches.
Whether planning an adventure solo or with a group, this whitewater excursion provides excitement and convenience for all.
Secure your spot today and get ready to conquer the Ocoee’s thrilling rapids.
Itinerary Details
When participants arrive for the Ocoee River Whitewater Trip, they should check in 30 minutes prior to the start time. This allows time to complete waivers and change into the appropriate attire.
Next, the trip leader provides a pre-trip briefing, sharing essential information and safety orientation. After the briefing, participants board a bus for a scenic ride through the Cherokee National Forest to the river’s put-in area.
A riverside lunch of build-your-own deli sandwiches, shrimp, fruit, chips, and drinks is served to fuel the adventure ahead.
Transportation to the Put-In Area
After the pre-trip briefing, participants board a bus for a scenic ride through the Cherokee National Forest to the river’s put-in area.
The drive takes around 30 minutes, providing a chance to admire the lush, verdant landscape.
The scenic drive through the Cherokee National Forest offers a chance to appreciate the lush, verdant landscape.
Once at the launch site, the guides provide final instructions and ensure everyone is properly equipped with life jackets and paddles.
Participants then carry their rafts to the water’s edge, eager to begin their whitewater adventure on the renowned Ocoee River, site of the 1996 Olympic whitewater competition.
More Great Tours NearbyPaddling Practice and Safety Orientation
Before embarking on the thrilling rapids, the guides lead participants in a paddling practice session. Here, they demonstrate essential techniques like forward, backward, and bracing strokes. Guests have the opportunity to try the paddle motions and get a feel for the raft’s handling.
Next, the trip leader provides a comprehensive safety orientation, covering important information such as commands, paddling responsibilities, and proper body positioning. With guidance and hands-on instruction, guests gain the skills and confidence needed to tackle the challenging whitewater ahead.
The pre-trip preparation sets the stage for an exhilarating and safe journey down the Ocoee River.
Thrilling Whitewater Rapids
As the raft glides into the first set of rapids, the crew braces themselves for the thrilling challenges ahead.
The Ocoee River delivers an exhilarating ride, with four key highlights:
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Mikeys: A powerful, three-tier drop that requires precise navigation.
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Godzilla: A massive wave train that tests the crew’s balance and teamwork.
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Humongous: A daunting rapid that demands skilled steering and quick reactions.
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Hells Hole: A churning, foaming rapid that swallows the raft, testing the guide’s expertise.
The thrill of conquering these legendary rapids leaves participants with an unforgettable sense of accomplishment.
Riverside Lunch
During the trip, participants enjoy a riverside lunch that offers a variety of delectable options.
The menu includes build-your-own deli sandwiches, peel-n-eat shrimp, fresh fruit, chips, cookies, tea, and lemonade.
A delectable spread of build-your-own deli sandwiches, peel-n-eat shrimp, fresh fruit, chips, cookies, tea, and lemonade.
This satisfying spread is served right by the river, allowing adventurers to refuel in a scenic setting after their thrilling journey on the rapids.
The lunch break provides a chance to rest, recharge, and reflect on the exhilarating experience before continuing the excursion.
Post-Trip Amenities
After the thrilling whitewater adventure, participants can take advantage of the post-trip amenities available. A quick shuttle ride returns them to the outpost where they can:
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Enjoy hot showers and changing facilities to freshen up.
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Browse the gift shop for t-shirts and souvenirs to commemorate the experience.
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Relax in the covered picnic area or challenge friends to a game of sand volleyball.
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Refuel at the onsite cafe open from 11am to 7pm.
These convenient post-trip offerings provide a seamless conclusion to the Ocoee River whitewater journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Minimum Swimming Ability Required for the Trip?
There’s no minimum swimming ability required for this trip. Participants must wear life jackets that fit chest sizes up to 56 inches, ensuring their safety on the river.
Can I Bring My Own Personal Flotation Device?
While personal flotation devices are permitted, the outfitter provides life jackets that fit chest sizes up to 56 inches. It’s recommended to use the provided life jackets for safety and consistency with the group.
Are There Any Age or Weight Restrictions for Participants?
Participants must be at least 12 years old, and life jackets fit chest sizes up to 56 inches. There are no weight restrictions, but riders must be able to fit in the provided life jackets.
Is There Any Option to Customize the Lunch Menu?
The trip’s lunch menu is set, but participants can’t customize it. The menu includes classic deli items, shrimp, fruit, chips, and beverages. If guests have dietary restrictions, they should contact the outfitter in advance to discuss options.
Can I Take My Own Photos and Videos During the Trip?
Yes, guests are welcome to take their own photos and videos during the trip. The outfitter encourages guests to capture their whitewater adventure but cautions them to prioritize safety and coordination with the guide.
The Sum Up
The Full Ocoee River Whitewater Trip provides an exhilarating adventure through the Cherokee National Forest. Navigating 10 miles of Class III/IV rapids, adventurers will experience the thrill of tackling notorious rapids while enjoying a riverside lunch. This guided tour offers an unforgettable day filled with excitement, teamwork, and the beauty of nature, catering to those aged 12 and older.
📍 This experience made our list of the 2 best Lunch Experiences in Ocoee