Full Ocoee River Rafting Adventure With Catered Shore Lunch

Thinking about adding a splash of adventure to your trip to Chattanooga? The Full Ocoee River Rafting Adventure might just be what you’re looking for. This guided white-water trip offers an exciting day on Tennessee’s renowned river, packed with rapids, scenic views, and a hearty picnic. We haven’t done it ourselves but have gathered plenty of insights to help you decide if it’s worth your time.

One thing we love about this tour is how it combines the thrill of navigating class III and IV rapids with relaxing moments overlooking beautiful river scenery. Plus, the included catered shoreline lunch adds a nice touch of the local outdoorsy vibe, giving you a chance to recharge in nature’s lap. On the flip side, the main consideration is that this experience is only available weekends from mid-May to September, so it requires some planning.

This tour is best suited for those who crave adventure and don’t mind getting a little wet. If you’re traveling with older kids (must be 12+ to participate), or you’re simply looking for a manageable, well-organized outdoor activity, this could be a great fit. Now, let’s dig into all the details so you can see if this trip fits your travel style.

Key Points

• Expert guides keep you safe while making the trip fun and engaging
• Scenic river views combined with adrenaline-pumping rapids
• Includes a hearty shore lunch, making it a full, satisfying experience
• Limited to weekends and seasonal, so plan ahead
• Moderate physical activity required, suitable for most active travelers
• Great for adventure lovers who want a guided, organized outing

What to Expect from the Ocoee River Rafting Adventure

The tour kicks off at a remote gorge near Ocoee Dam No.3, providing a sense of escape from everyday life right from the start. From there, your guide begins briefing you on safety and paddling techniques—essential for tackling the 10 miles of rapids waiting ahead. The guides are highlighted as interactive, knowledgeable, and funny, which makes the often intense experience much more approachable. According to reviews, guides like Ryan, Max, and Ethan are top-notch, making the journey both safe and entertaining.

The Rapids: Class III and IV Thrills

The main draw of this adventure is the challenging rapids you’ll encounter. Around mid-way, the river narrows into the Olympic white-water competition course, offering an adrenaline rush as you navigate through some of the most intense parts. You can expect to shoot down over 20 rapid sections, including memorable names like Double Suck, Flipper, Diamond Splitter, and Hells Hole. These names give a good hint of the excitement level, and if you love a good splash, you’ll find plenty here.

The rapids are described as big water, which means you’ll need to be prepared for some splashes and possibly getting wet from head to toe. But that’s part of the fun—most reviewers rave about how exhilarating it is. One reviewer summed it up as “So much fun!!!!!!” with a guide who was the “BEST,” emphasizing how much the guides enhance the experience.

Scenic Views and Unique Features

Halfway through, the river narrows into the Olympic white water course, which adds a touch of competitive thrill to your day. The scenery along the river is often praised—lush, remote, and perfect for nature lovers who want an active adventure. The views are complemented by the exhilaration of the rapids, creating a mix of adrenaline and tranquility.

The Shore Lunch: A Taste of Tennessee Outdoors

After completing the upper section of the river, you’ll pull up for a scenic riverside picnic lunch. The meal includes sandwiches, chips, cookies, fruit, sweet tea, and lemonade, offering a satisfying break before heading into the more intense section of the trip. Reviewers have remarked on how well-organized the lunch is, and it’s a nice way to unwind after some splashy fun. It’s also a good opportunity to chat with your group or soak in the peaceful river surroundings.

The Second Half: More Rapids and Excitement

When you finish eating, you’ll shoot down the middle Ocoee, tackling over 20 additional class III and IV rapids. These include the notable Double Suck, Flipper, Diamond Splitter, and Hells Hole—each promising more excitement and splash-worthy moments. The trip overall takes about five hours, making it a full half-day adventure, which fits nicely into most travel schedules.

Group Size and Overall Experience

The tour caps at 50 travelers, ensuring it’s not overly crowded but still lively enough for group energy. We love how the reviews emphasize the small-group feel, making it easier for guides to give personalized attention and keep everyone safe.

Practical Details and Logistics

Pricing and Value

At $110 per person, this tour offers a good value considering it includes transportation, guides, safety gear, and a catered lunch. The reviews consistently praise the guides and the organization, which adds to the overall value. The fact that it’s a full five-hour experience means you’re getting a substantial adventure for your money.

Booking and Availability

The tour is only available on weekends from mid-May to September, so plan your trip accordingly. Since it’s often booked about 47 days in advance, it’s best to reserve early, especially if you’re traveling during peak months.

What to Wear and Bring

While the tour details don’t specify clothing, it’s safe to assume you’ll want quick-drying clothes and sturdy shoes suitable for getting wet. A change of clothes and waterproof camera might also be handy. Sun protection and water bottles are advisable, especially since you’ll be outdoors for several hours.

Physical Fitness and Safety

The tour mentions a moderate physical fitness level, which means you should be comfortable paddling and handling some physical exertion. Safety gear, including PFDs, helmets, paddles, and guides are provided, ensuring everyone stays protected.

Authentic Experiences and Reviews

The reviews consistently highlight the knowledgeable, fun, and safety-conscious guides. One reviewer raved about Ethan, calling him “top notch,” and another appreciated the organized nature of the company. The guides’ focus on safety and entertainment makes a noticeable difference in how relaxed travelers feel during the thrill ride.

Many agree the scenic views and adrenaline rush create an unforgettable experience. While some mention that getting wet is inevitable, most see it as part of the fun—“You won’t be disappointed,” as one reviewer said.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for adventure seekers, outdoor lovers, and anyone wanting to combine stunning natural scenery with lively action. It’s ideal for ages 12 and up, so families with older kids will find it suitable, but younger children might want to pass on the more intense rapids. The organized nature and small group size make it accessible for most reasonably fit travelers who enjoy a bit of physical activity.

The Sum Up

If you’re after a thrilling, well-organized white-water rafting trip that combines adrenaline with scenic beauty, this experience on the Ocoee River is worth considering. The guides’ expertise and friendly attitude help create a safe yet exciting atmosphere, and the included shore lunch adds a genuine outdoor adventure touch.

While the limited seasonal availability might require some planning, the positive reviews and high ratings suggest that this tour consistently delivers on its promise of a memorable day. It’s best suited for those who enjoy active outings and are prepared for some splashes and bumps—kids 12 and older will likely love it too.

For anyone looking to add a dose of adventure to their Chattanooga trip, this rafting experience offers a solid mix of thrills, scenic views, and good organization—making it a memorable highlight for many travelers.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children must be at least 12 years old to raft the Ocoee River, making it suitable for families with older kids who can handle the physical activity and intensity of the rapids.

What is included in the tour price?
The $110 fee covers private transportation, guides, safety gear (PFDs, helmets, paddles), and the catered shoreline lunch.

How long does the trip last?
The entire experience is about five hours, including rafting, lunch, and the return trip.

When is this tour available?
It runs only on weekends from mid-May through September, so booking early is advised due to high popularity.

What should I bring?
Wear quick-drying clothes, sturdy footwear, sun protection, and consider bringing a waterproof camera and change of clothes for after the trip.

What is the group size?
The tour caps at 50 travelers, maintaining a balance of fun and personalized guidance.

If you’re craving a river adventure filled with exciting rapids and scenic moments, this rafting tour on the Ocoee River looks like a fantastic choice. Just remember to book early, prepare for some splashes, and enjoy every adrenaline-fueled moment!