Drifting Through the Gorge: A Calm Float on the Lower Ocoee
Relax on a 90–120 minute guided float where the river does the work and the scenery rewards the quiet
The raft noses into the current as the river thins and the canyon exhales. Around you, the valley narrows, and the water—more lake-smooth than whitewater here—carries the group in a slow, steady rhythm. Sun sifts through loblolly pines, dappling faces and paddles; a guide points out a rock shelf where belted kingfishers launch like tiny torpedoes. For 90 to 120 minutes, the Lower Ocoee offers a break from the harder edges of adventure: no hammering rapids, just a peaceful downstream drift that feels like an active meditation.
Trail Wisdom
Secure Footwear
Wear water shoes or tennis shoes with heel straps—no flip-flops or bare feet allowed; they come off easily and risk injury.
Arrive Early
Show up 20–30 minutes before your start time to get fitted for a PFD and attend safety talk—guides run on Eastern Time.
Protect Electronics
Use a dry bag or leave devices locked in your car; the outpost staff can hold keys for convenience.
PFD Fit For Kids
Children must fit into OAR PFDs (minimum ~50 lbs.) or parents should bring a child PFD—safety regulation is strictly enforced.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Quiet shoreline pockets near mid-float for wildlife viewing
- •Short roadside viewpoints above the river for a different perspective
Wildlife
Great blue heron, Belted kingfisher
Conservation Note
The river corridor crosses Cherokee National Forest lands—pack out trash, use reef-safe sunscreen, and respect riparian vegetation to reduce erosion.
The Ocoee Valley was historically Cherokee land and later shaped by 20th-century TVA projects; the Upper Ocoee hosted the 1996 Olympic slalom.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Wildflower blooms, Cooler water temps
Challenges: Higher runoff after storms, Variable water clarity
Spring brings fresh river flows and verdant banks—expect cooler air and occasional higher water after heavy rains.
summer
Best for: Warm paddling conditions, Family outings, Long daylight
Challenges: Busy schedules and larger crowds, Heat and sun exposure
Summer is peak season: warm water and easy access but book ahead and prepare for sun and higher visitor numbers.
fall
Best for: Autumn foliage, Quieter floats
Challenges: Cooler mornings and evenings, Shorter daylight hours
Fall offers intimate color and fewer people—layer up for chilly starts and bring a thermos.
winter
Best for: Secluded scenery, Off-season rates if available
Challenges: Cold water temperatures, Limited operating days
Winter trips are rare and chilly; dress in insulating layers and confirm availability ahead of time.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Secure Water ShoesEssential
Keeps feet protected and prevents slipping; required by operators.
Quick-Dry ClothingEssential
Dries fast after splashes and keeps you comfortable during and after the float.
Dry Bag
Protects phone, keys, and snacks from splashes and accidental dunking.
Sun Protection (Hat + SPF)Essential
Prevents sunburn on exposed canyon stretches where shade is intermittent.
Common Questions
Are there age restrictions for the Lower Ocoee float?
There are no formal age restrictions, but children must fit into OAR PFDs (roughly 50 lbs or greater) or parents should provide an appropriate child PFD.
Can pregnant people go on this trip?
No—this operator will not take anyone who is pregnant for safety reasons.
How long is the float?
Trips last approximately 1.5–2 hours from check-in to return to the outpost.
What should I wear on the float?
Secure water shoes or tennis shoes with heel straps, quick-dry clothing, a hat, and sunscreen—no flip-flops or bare feet.
Do I need to bring my own gear?
No; the operator provides rafts, paddles, and PFDs. You should bring personal essentials like water, sunglasses with retainers, and a towel.
How do I book and where do I meet?
Book through the local-expert portal and meet at 629 Welcome Valley Road, Benton, TN—arrive 20–30 minutes early to check in.
What to Pack
Water shoes (secure fit); Sunscreen and hat (sun protection); Quick-dry clothing (comfort); Dry bag (protect electronics)
Did You Know
The Ocoee River area hosted the 1996 Olympic whitewater slalom events on its upper reaches.
Quick Travel Tips
Arrive 20–30 minutes early; Dress in layers for changing conditions; Lock valuables in your vehicle; Bring a reusable water bottle
Local Flavor
After your float, grab a sandwich or BBQ in Benton or drive toward Chattanooga for a broader dining and craft-beer scene—local markets also sell picnic staples if you prefer to eat riverside.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport / trailhead: Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA) ~1.5 hours; Driving distance from nearest town: meeting point is in Benton (on-site); Cell service: spotty in the gorge; Permits/passes: none typically required; Arrive 20–30 minutes early for check-in.
Sustainability Note
This corridor intersects federally managed forest land—pack out all trash, avoid trampling shoreline vegetation, and use biodegradable sunscreen to protect aquatic life.