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Paddle the Hiwassee River on an inflatable tandem kayak with Hiwassee Outfitters. This self-guided float downstream offers 2.5 to 4 hours of accessible river fun near Reliance, Tennessee.
Paddle the Hiwassee River on an inflatable tandem kayak with Hiwassee Outfitters. This self-guided float downstream offers 2.5 to 4 hours of accessible river fun near Reliance, Tennessee.
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Operated by Hiwassee Outfitters · Reliance, Tennessee
In the foothills of Tennessee, the Hiwassee River cuts a clear, moving pulse through the rugged landscape near Reliance, inviting paddlers to step into a refreshing, hands-on adventure. Hiwassee Outfitters offers a standout way to experience this scenic waterway with their Inflatable Tandem Kayak Rental—a self-guided journey perfectly timed for a 2.5 to 4-hour float downstream. After a shuttle ride upstream, you and a partner slide into lightweight, inflatable kayaks crafted for stability and fun on the river’s steady currents.
This stretch of the Hiwassee features a mix of gentle rapids and smooth pools, skirting forested banks where native sycamores and river maples reach skyward. The riverbed’s mix of limestone and sandstone creates quiet cascades and small rocky shoals, adding variety to the paddle. As you drift back toward the base camp, keep an eye out for herons and the occasional deer glimpsed through the trees—wildlife uniquely adapted to the Tennessee River corridor.
What sets this experience apart is its accessibility and pace. Perfect for families and paddlers of all skill levels, the trip allows you to immerse yourself without a guide, relying on your own sense of the water and surroundings. The trip’s moderate challenge encourages a casual vibe while still delivering plenty of moments to engage with the rushing water and cool down in natural pools.
Hiwassee Outfitters, located at 155 Ellis Creek Road in Reliance, Tennessee, has carved an important niche in the local outdoor scene. Their commitment to stewardship shines through in their river policies that discourage glass, alcohol, and Styrofoam, preserving the river’s cleanliness for generations to come. This trip is not only a way to connect with one of Tennessee’s finest rivers but also a glimpse into the region’s natural heritage and community-driven conservation efforts. Whether a weekend escape or part of a longer outdoor itinerary, the inflatable tandem kayak rental offers a memorable waterborne journey distinct to this part of the Southern Appalachians.
easy.
2.5–4 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels; basic paddling skills recommended but beginners welcome.
No prior experience is required; the trip is self-guided on mostly gentle waters suitable for beginners.
Yes, expect to get wet from splashes and possibly light falls into the water.
Yes, all kayakers receive life jackets and safety gear before hitting the river.
Coolers are allowed but must not contain Styrofoam; bring snacks and drinks in reusable containers.
A shuttle bus transports you 5.5 miles upstream to start the float; arrive on time for smooth boarding.
Pets are not allowed on the shuttle service or kayaks due to limited space and safety regulations.
The Hiwassee River corridor was historically used by Cherokee communities and remains culturally significant today.
Hiwassee Outfitters actively promotes river stewardship by banning glass, Styrofoam, and alcohol to maintain the river’s ecosystem.
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