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Take on a 6-mile self-guided solo kayak float with Hiwassee Outfitters in Reliance, TN. Enjoy hours of scenic paddling through Appalachian river bends with easy shuttle logistics for a stress-free day on the water.
Take on a 6-mile self-guided solo kayak float with Hiwassee Outfitters in Reliance, TN. Enjoy hours of scenic paddling through Appalachian river bends with easy shuttle logistics for a stress-free day on the water.
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Operated by Hiwassee Outfitters · Reliance, Tennessee
Hiwassee Outfitters offers a unique opportunity for paddlers seeking an immersive yet low-pressure river experience in the heart of Reliance, Tennessee. Their Inflatable Solo Kayak Rental lets you take full control of a self-guided paddle down a scenic 6-mile stretch of the Hiwassee River. After a brief shuttle ride upstream, participants launch into a winding river course carved through rugged Appalachian terrain, dotted with limestone bluffs and lush riverbanks thick with sycamore and hemlock trees. This 2.5 to 4-hour float is perfect for those aged 12 and older eager for a blend of tranquility and mild adventure.
What sets this trip apart is its approachable access and self-pacing freedom. Unlike guided tours, paddlers set their own rhythm, letting the current carry them past natural rock outcrops, occasional riffles, and calm pools that riffle with native trout. The river temperature hovers around 54°F in early summer, reminding adventurers to wear appropriate footwear rather than flip-flops and prepare to get wet. Hiwassee Outfitters’ location in Reliance is particularly special due to its proximity to the Cherokee National Forest, an area rich in Appalachian biodiversity and history.
The company emphasizes environmental stewardship by prohibiting glass, Styrofoam, and alcohol on the river, helping preserve the river’s clarity and wildlife habitats. A pre-trip shuttle takes guests upstream, ensuring a seamless return to the outfitter’s base without the logistical hassle of a round-trip paddle. This makes the floating experience straightforward and family-friendly without sacrificing scenic quality or outdoor authenticity.
Whether you’re seeking a refreshing afternoon escape, a gentle workout on the water, or a firsthand look at East Tennessee’s river ecosystem, Hiwassee Outfitters’ Inflatable Solo Kayak Rental offers a rare combination of ease, enjoyment, and natural beauty that stands out in this region’s outdoor recreation offerings.
easy.
2.5–4 hours.
Basic paddling fitness recommended; suitable for beginners and intermediate paddlers aged 12 and up.
No experience is necessary; the kayak is inflatable and stable, perfect for beginners and casual paddlers.
Wear water-friendly shoes and quick-drying clothes. Expect to get wet, so avoid cotton and bring a change of clothes.
Yes, kids 12 and older can rent a solo kayak and navigate the river safely.
Yes, PFDs are included with all kayak rentals and must be worn at all times on the river.
Hiwassee Outfitters runs a shuttle to the upstream put-in point before your kayaking trip begins.
Glass containers, Styrofoam coolers, and alcohol are not allowed to ensure safety and maintain the river’s cleanliness.
The Hiwassee River region was historically used by the Cherokee Nation and later by settlers for milling and transport, leaving behind rich cultural landmarks.
Hiwassee Outfitters promotes Leave No Trace principles and actively supports river cleanup initiatives to preserve the health of the Hiwassee River watershed.
Hiwassee Outfitters is an outfitter and campground located in Reliance, Tennessee, offering self-guided river rentals and riverside accommodations on the Hiwassee River. The business provides a range of water-based activities including tube rentals (recommended for strong swimmers age 14 and up), raft rentals, inflatable solo and tandem kayak rentals, and scenic shuttle options that return guests to their vehicles. Typical float times for rentals range from 2.5 to 4 hours, with specific shuttle distances noted on individual rentals (for example, a 6-mile shuttle for the inflatable solo kayak and a 5.5-mile float for the raft rental). Onsite lodging and camping options include waterfront campsites with picnic tables and fire rings, hot showers, an outfitter's store with essentials, a bunk house that accommodates up to 20 guests with electricity and a fire ring, and a deluxe house that sleeps up to 10 guests with two queen beds, a sleeping loft, a full kitchen, and a large stone fireplace. RV sites with full hookups are offered at published nightly rates ($79.99 Sunday–Thursday and $99.99 on weekends). Weekday camping options and group-friendly facilities make the property suitable for family gatherings, retreats, and outdoor-focused groups. Hiwassee Outfitters emphasizes self-guided river experiences, clear safety notes for participants, and on-property amenities designed to support multi-day stays and day trips on the Hiwassee River.
Book with Hiwassee Outfitters