Tennessee White Water Options from Mild to Wild
Are you seeking an adventurous way to experience the great outdoors of Tennessee? White water rafting may be the answer! Tennessee is home to three incredible rivers suitable for rafting. There are many other river suitable for kayaking and some great class V action. However, those rivers suitable for rafting are the Pigeon River, Nolichucky River, and Ocoee River. Each offering a variety of rapids for all skill levels. We will present the river options from mild in this article about white water rafting in Tennessee.
Mild Pigeon River
The Pigeon River offers an mild white water rafting adventure on the Upper Pigeon and an easier yet still scenic journey on the Lower Pigeon. To give you an idea of the demands or lack there of on these to section consider the age restrictions. The upper Pigeon requires rafter to be at least eight years old. While the lower pigeon is so mild those three year old and up may raft. On the Upper Pigeon, guests will embark on a 1.5 hour tour with seven rapids none are more challenging than class 3. But you will enjoy breathtaking views of the Cherokee National Forest and Great Smoky Mountains. On the Lower Pigeon, you’ll have a five-hour tour of the pristine river with occasional super easy class 1 and 2 rapids, perfect for families with very young children.
Moderate Nolichucky River
The Nolichucky River on the border of Tennessee and North Carolina is a top choice for white water rafting especially for those seeking a moderate experience. For a more intense experience than the pigeon, the Upper Nolichucky Gorge is often recommended. For reference the age limit is ten years of age and up. The Upper Nolichucky with four hours of thrilling rapids through the gorge and tree-lined forests a good experience. For a more relaxed journey suitable for ages four and up try the Lower Nolichucky River. It has Class I & II rapids with views of the Pisgah National Forest and Cherokee National Forest throughout its float.
Wild Ocoee River
Finally, the Ocoee River offers an wild and epic ten-mile trip with nearly countless rapids. The age limit for the Ocoee River is twelve years of age and up. The Upper Ocoee River begins with the 1996 Olympic Whitewater Course, nicknamed Godzilla, Humongous, and Slam Dunk, followed by the Middle Ocoee River with rapids such as Broken Nose, Diamond Splitter, and Table Saw. Before hitting the rapids, be sure to wear sturdy shoes, synthetic clothes, and sun protection for an enjoyable and safe experience! With a river guide leading the way, you are sure to have a thrilling and unforgettable white water rafting adventure in Tennessee. The Middle Ocoee offers up over two dozen fun class 3 rapids. While the Upper Ocoee has some big class 4 rapids. The best ride is the full river trip that combines both sections together.
Tennessee White Water Rafting Options
You can have an unforgettable experience exploring the great outdoors by white water rafting in Tennessee. A helpful guide and the right attire will ensure that you are prepared for the thrill of the rapids. With a river guide accompanying each trip, you can navigate the rapids with confidence. If you’re new to rafting, make sure to wear sturdy shoes, synthetic clothes, and sun protection to get the most out of your experience. Avoid wearing cotton or any materials that can become heavy when wet. By following these simple tips, you’ll be ready for the ride of a lifetime!
Raft with Tennessee’s Best Whitewater Outfitter
Come challenge the best whitewater in Tennessee with OAC’s dedicated and fun guides. Take on all 10 miles of class III-IV action the Ocoee has to offer or the five miles of continuous class III-III+ of the Middle Ocoee. Choose the option that suits you best.
