Laced by rivers, edged by lakes and framed by the Great Smoky Mountains, Knoxville is part urban hub complete with cultural attractions and part portal for adventure on nearby peaks.
In the eastern part of Tennessee there is the Ocoee River flowing through the pristine Cherokee National Forest. This river is known worldwide as it was used for the Olympics in 1996 for the whitewater slalom events. This area offers hiking, biking, environmental education programs, and of course whitewater rafting.
There are two segments, the Upper and the Middle. Both of these sections have class III to IV rapids. The Upper segment was used for the Olympics and is only open for rafting on select weekends during the summer. Some of the Upper rapids include Blue Hole, Mickey’s, and Humongous making for an awesome run. The Middle is open for the entire season starting from mid-March to November. The times to go are Thursday through Monday which are the days that the dam releases water.
This world class river is very near Cleveland and just forty miles from Chattanooga. The Upper segment age requirement is thirteen years old and the Middle’s age requirement is twelve. Make a complete trip out of rafting here by checking out the National Forest as well.
River Details
Class:
Class III to IV
Suitability:
Raft
River Length
Middle 5 miles, Upper 5 miles
Time
Half - 1 day
Season:
Mid March to November
Nearest Town
Located near Cherokee National Forest, 40 miles from Chattanooga.
Additional Details
Minimum age is 13 (upper segment) & 12 years old (middle).
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