Edge of the Gorge: Running the Middle Ocoee’s Whitewater in a Day
Short, sharp, unforgettable — a three-hour whitewater sprint through a storied Appalachian gorge.
The morning light slices into the canyon in thin, bright ribbons. Pine needles glitter where they catch it; the river beneath seems darker for the contrast, a moving vein of glass and teeth. You can hear the Middle Ocoee before you see it — a distant roar that grows into the buzz of water hitting rock, then the crisp punctuation of a rapid. Guides in neon spraysuits move with calm purpose, checking straps and pointing downriver where the current will take you. When your raft launches, that first drop feels less like falling and more like joining a conversation with the river: the Ocoee daring you, the boat answering back.
Trail Wisdom
Wear secure footwear
Use river shoes or old sneakers that won’t slip off — rocks are slippery on shore and in swims.
Hydrate before you go
Bring water and drink well before launch; paddling is a short, intense workout and water is not practical while on the raft.
Protect small electronics
Leave phones in your vehicle or use a chest-mounted dry box — expect spray and occasional immersion.
Listen to your guide
Commands are concise and practiced — follow them immediately for best safety and fun.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Hike the short trails around the Ocoee Whitewater Center for canyon viewpoints
- •Drive the Cherohala Skyway nearby for panoramic overlooks and quiet pullouts
Wildlife
American bald eagle, Brook trout
Conservation Note
The river corridor runs adjacent to Cherokee National Forest lands; follow leave-no-trace principles and use established access points to reduce shoreline erosion.
The Middle Ocoee flows through valleys once trafficked by the Cherokee and later shaped by regional copper mining; the river hosted the 1996 Olympic slalom events.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: High flows, Fresh snowmelt thrills
Challenges: Cold water temperatures, Unpredictable weather
Spring releases can be powerful and technical; dress warmly in layers and expect colder swims.
summer
Best for: Warm water, Reliable scheduled releases
Challenges: Higher crowds, Hot parking lots
Summer is the most popular season for guided runs — expect warmer water and more people on peak days.
fall
Best for: Fewer crowds, Crisp air, Scenic foliage
Challenges: Shorter daylight, Cooler mornings
Fall offers quieter runs and colorful canyon views; bring an insulating layer for early launches.
winter
Best for: Offseason solitude (if water released), Cold-weather training
Challenges: Rare releases, Very cold water
Winter releases are uncommon and water is cold; only experienced paddlers with suitable gear should consider it.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
River shoes or secure sneakersEssential
Protects feet on rocky shorelines and provides traction in the raft.
Quick-dry clothing and synthetic layersEssential
Dries fast after splashes and keeps you warm without trapping water.
Lightweight waterproof shell
Blocks wind and spray during cool mornings and unexpected drizzle.
Reef-safe sunscreen and lip balmEssential
Protects skin during prolonged sun exposure on open stretches between trees.
Common Questions
How long is the Middle Ocoee trip?
The guided commercial trip typically runs about three hours from gear-up to final float-out; factor in travel and shuttle time for a half-day excursion.
Do I need prior rafting experience?
No prior experience is required — guides will coach paddling technique and safety — but you should be comfortable following commands and able to swim.
What should I wear on the raft?
Quick-dry synthetics or a swimsuit under a wetsuit in cold months, river shoes or old sneakers, and a lightweight waterproof layer if mornings are cool.
Are there age or weight limits?
Outfitters set age and weight guidelines; check with your chosen operator before booking — many require a minimum age around 6–12 depending on the run and company policies.
Is the Ocoee safe?
When run with a professional outfitter that follows TVA and local safety protocols, the Middle Ocoee is a managed and relatively safe commercial experience; guides are trained in swiftwater rescue and EMR.
How do I book and when should I arrive?
Book in advance (summer weekends fill up). Arrive at your outfitter early for a safety talk and equipment fitting; bring ID and a credit card for incidental fees.
What to Pack
River shoes or secure sneakers (traction), quick-dry layers (comfort), waterproof phone case or dry bag (protect gear), reusable water bottle (hydration)
Did You Know
The Middle Ocoee hosted the canoe and kayak slalom events during the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games.
Quick Travel Tips
Book summer weekends early; bring cash or card for shuttle/parking; expect limited cell service in the gorge; pack a dry change of clothes for post-run comfort
Local Flavor
After a run, head to Copperhill or Ducktown for hearty Appalachian barbecue and local hospitality; for a bigger night out, drive back to Chattanooga’s Southside for breweries, riverfront dining, and live music.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA). Typical drive from Chattanooga: ~70 miles / 1.5 hours. Cell service: intermittent in the gorge. Permits: no personal permits required for commercial runs, but operators run on TVA schedules—reserve through your outfitter.
Sustainability Note
The Middle Ocoee runs alongside federally managed lands — pack out trash, stay on designated access points, and follow guides’ shore-use practices to minimize erosion and wildlife disturbance.