Whitewater Rafting with Ocoee Outdoors in Benton, TN
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical condition, able to paddle actively and manage rough water conditions for prolonged periods.
Overview
Spend a full day on Tennessee’s legendary Upper and Middle Ocoee Rivers with Ocoee Outdoors, navigating Class III and IV rapids set against a backdrop of rugged Appalachia. From Olympic-grade whitewater to riverside lunches, this rafting trip promises adventure and scenic beauty in equal measure.
All Day Upper and Middle Whitewater Rafting
Ages 12+ • 6 Hours • Class III and IV Rapids
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About This Adventure
Spend a full day conquering the Middle Ocoee and the Upper Ocoee of Tennessee, the site of Atlanta’s 1996 Summer Olympics Whitewater events.
Duration
This experience includes 4 hours on the water and a riverside lunch. Total trip time approximately 6 hours but the memories will last a lifetime.
Highlights
Your adventure begins with the upper section of the Ocoee River and ends with the classic middle.
- Full-day whitewater rafting expedition
- Riverside lunch included
- Class III – IV rapids.
- Includes all rafting equipment (raft, paddle, helmet, life vest), bus transportation to and from the river from our headquarters and a professional guide in each raft
Important Information
- Must be under 260lbs and at least 12 years of age. This is a requirement directly from Tennessee state law.
- Class III & IV - River Class refers to how powerful the rapids are on a given river. Class IV rapids are difficult with constricted passages that often require complex maneuvering in turbulent water.
- All rafters must sign a release/waiver
- $250 deposit required
What to Bring
- Water shoes, tennis shoes or something with a heel strap. Close-toed preferred!
- Clothes that can get wet
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses with Chums
- Water
- Lanyard/ Strap for your GoPro
- Dry clothes to change into
- Towel
- Enthusiastic attitude
What Not To Bring:
- Dry Bags!
- Anything you don’t want to get lost.
- Please leave all other items in your locked car!
- And our Store Staff will be happy to keep your keys while you are out having FUN!!!
Adventure Tips
Wear Secure Footwear
Choose water shoes or close-toed sneakers with heel straps to stay safe and comfortable in the moving water.
Sun Protection Is a Must
Bring waterproof sunscreen and sunglasses with retainers to protect yourself during long hours on the river.
Bring a Dry Change of Clothes
After hours on the water, having dry clothes and a towel available makes the post-rafting ride much more comfortable.
Know the Weight and Age Limits
Participants must be at least 12 years old and weigh under 260 pounds per Tennessee regulations for safety reasons.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- River otters often spotted hunting along quiet sections
- Bald eagles soaring over the canyon walls
History
The Ocoee River gained international fame as the venue for the 1996 Olympic whitewater events, shaping its modern recreational identity.
Conservation
Ocoee Outdoors works closely with local agencies to minimize impact on riverbanks and aquatic habitats, emphasizing Leave No Trace principles.
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Adventure Hotspots in Chattanooga
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Water shoes or secure sneakers
Protect your feet and provide traction on slippery rocks and rafts.
summer specific
Sunscreen
Long exposure to sunlight requires effective UV protection.
summer specific
Quick-dry clothing
Clothes that dry fast add comfort before and after rafting.
Sunglasses with a lanyard
Keeps your eyes protected without the risk of losing sunglasses in the river.