Tennessee offers excellent white-water rafting on the Ocoee River and Pigeon River. Also, visitors can find rafting opportunities in nearby North Carolina--including a longer, more technically challenging run. Rapids range from class I, which is the slowest, to class VI. The Tennessee region offers locals and visitors alike opportunities to craft adventures on either end of the scale. Most of the runs in Tennessee are family-friendly and designed for individuals of any experience level.
Locations
You can enjoy white-water rafting in Tennessee or nearby North Carolina. Tennessee's Ocoee River offers more than five miles of class III and IV rapids. In the Smoky Mountains, the Pigeon River also offers five miles of class III and IV stretches. Also, because the Pigeon River is dam-controlled, adequate water flow is guaranteed. Western North Carolina offers additional options for those visiting eastern Tennessee. The Nantahala River, which is also dam-controlled, offers class I and II rapids with a class III rapid near the end of the run. The Cheoah River provides a thrilling experience for experts. It offers nine miles of narrow twists and turns requiring many technical moves.
Requirements
Requirements differ by company and location. For example, Rafting in the Smokies offers a Pigeon River experience for those as young as 8 years old. On the other side of the state, the Tennessee State Parks department has a minimum age requirement of 12 years old for rafting on the Ocoee. The more technical Cheoah River in North Carolina requires a minimum age of 16. Those with young children may wish to raft in the slower waters of the lower Pigeon River, where the age requirement is as low as 4 years of age. In addition to age, companies may require individuals to meet minimum and maximum weight restrictions and to be in good health. Those with spinal problems, beyond the first trimester of a pregnancy or with heart conditions may not be allowed to raft.
Preparing to Raft
In the summer, rafters should wear lightweight clothing that will dry quickly, such as swim shorts and tank tops. In cooler seasons, it's important to wear clothing that won't absorb a lot of water. Wool and synthetics are good choices. In any season, participants must wear shoes that will stay on one's feet for the duration of the journey. Many rafters may choose to rent a wetsuit from the rafting company during cooler temperatures. When rafting, don't bring anything with you that you don't want to risk losing or having soaked. Don't bring non-waterproof cameras, wallets or other valuables. Lock your valuables in your vehicle and ask the rafting company about key storage for the duration of the trip. Most rafting trips in the Tennessee area are short and do not include food and other services. However, you can bring food with you for a pre- or post-trip picnic. Some companies offer shower facilities, so you may want to bring a towel, shower supplies and a change of clothes.
Safety
For most journeys no experience is required. However, you will need to follow basic safety procedures to help ensure a healthy and enjoyable trip. Adventure companies provide an overview of rafting equipment and safety practices prior to the journey. These companies also provide the life jackets, helmets and paddles for all participants. For safety reasons, the use of alcohol or drugs when rafting is prohibited. Rafting trips will include a trained, professional guide. Every participant will need to sign a waiver prior to the adventure assuming all risk and releasing the rafting company from any liability.
Season and Price
Rafting lasts from early spring to late fall in the Tennessee region. In summer, most companies operate four or five days a week, allowing visitors ample opportunities to reserve space on a rafting trip. In spring and fall, companies that remain open generally operate on weekends only. Certain rivers, such as the Cheoah River in North Carolina, offer a limited selection of rafting dates due to the local damn's water release dates. In general, price will be influenced by the day of the week, the time of year, the location and the length of the tour. Weekdays, summer rafting and short trips are generally less expensive. You can find rafting adventures for as little as $35 per person or as much as $95. Several companies offer package deals, including multiple adventures or lodging. Companies also offer group discounts.
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