Top Chattanooga On the Water

The rushing waters of the Middle Ocoee River are your playground during this whitewater adventure. Climb into a kayak and paddle down the Middle Section of the Ocoee River through Chattanooga National Forest with a guide. Those new to this adrenaline-filled sport will find the pre-launch safety briefing and orientation helpful. Paddle through more than five-miles of the river where you’ll encounter 270-foot drops and Class III/IV waves.

The nation's most-popular whitewater rafting trip offers near-constant excitement from start to finish and is located just below the 1996 Olympic Whitewater Course. Many rafters consider the Ocoee’s intensity and difficulty “just right" with a greatest hit compilation of rapids. Highlights of the run—and there are many—include huge waves at Double Trouble, fast, frenzied currents at Tablesaw and the boat-drenching punch through Hell Hole rapid.

The Ocoee River formed naturally without any of the undercuts or sieves present in most waterways. For our rafters that means we can push the boundaries of what a non-professional can experience. At OAR we train for longer then any other company. We are also the only company that requires each guide to complete an EMR certification as well as a Swiftwater Rescue class. This enables us to confidently do things on the water other companies can't and take guests that other companies won't.

The Tennessee River’s Chickamauga Dam is a marvel of engineering, holding back floodwaters while producing hydroelectric power. Experience this impressive structure up close by kayaking through the dam’s lock on this remarkable guided tour. Over the course of around three hours, you’ll paddle into the lock, watch the gates close, and slowly sink down some 50 feet before paddling back out into the river.

Go whitewater rafting in Tennessee with this half-day adventure along the Ocoee River. After a short safety introduction, board a private bus for a ride through the Cherokee National Forest. Climb aboard the raft and experience more than 20 class III and class IV rapids while descending the river gorge. Enjoy plenty of opportunities to swim, if you wish, on this nature-filled escape from the city.

The Ocoee River is one of the most popular destinations for whitewater rafting in Tennessee and flows through the heart of the Cherokee National Forest. On this tour, you’ll get a full day on the water, with full instruction and lunch included. Get your adrenaline pumping as you tackle Class III and IV rapids, admire the views as you cruise downstream, and raft down part of the ‘Olympic section’.

Go white water rafting in Tennessee with this half-day adventure on the Ocoee River. Get your adrenaline pumping during this seasonal excursion along 10 miles (16 kilometers) of rapids, including class III and IV rapids. A riverside picnic lunch is also included, so you don't have to worry about packing snacks. Children must be at least 12 years old to participate.

Take your rafting skill to the next level with this private guided excursion on the Ocoee River. Slip on your helmet and life vest and set off on a Puma raft—this narrow, short raft rides the rapids differently than standard river rafts and guarantees an adrenaline-pumping adventure that will leave you thrilled. Take a break along the way to surf and swim during a calm stretch of river and pick up tips and techniques from your expert rafting guide.

*Eastern Time Start* Our kayak guide will meet you at Sullivans Landing get you checked in and load up in the Mercedes’ Sprinter van to drive up to Raccoon Mountain for a 4.5 mile downstream kayak adventure through an 17,000 protected forest acres of fall foliage. Enjoy the beautiful fall temperatures with a hot cider or hot chocolate at the end of your tour.

Explore the serene waterways of Chattanooga and Chickamauga Lake with a self-captained GoBoat rental. No boating license is required, making it accessible for everyone. Enjoy a peaceful day on the water in a whisper-quiet electric vessel designed for comfort and convenience. Perfect for families or groups, these boats accommodate up to four guests (4 singles, or 2 doubles), complete with built-in cooler space for your favorite snacks and drinks. Guests receive a local map for easy navigation, ensuring a stress-free adventure on the lake. - Self-captained rentals available for up to 4 guests (4 singles, or 2 doubles). - Eco-friendly electric boats for a quiet day on the water. - Hassle-free booking with exclusive guest rates. - Enjoy built-in cooler space for refreshments on board.

Observe the winter migration of sandhill cranes while you paddle down the Tennessee River on this special bird-watching kayak tour near Chattanooga. Some 15,000 cranes nest in the area for the season after fleeing the frigid winters of the far north and your perspective from the river is the best way to see them in action. Your guide will provide everything you need, including kayaks, paddles, cold-weather gear, and binoculars.