Ocoee River Rafting Adventure
Post Rafting Craft Brews
Looking for an adrenaline rush? Look no further than white water rafting with Rolling Thunder River Company in McCaysville, Georgia, a 25-minute drive from Blue Ridge. Rolling Thunder River Company offers several options for rafting trips to suit all thrill seekers! We chose a ½ day trip down the Ocoee River which features Olympic level white water rapids. In 1996 Georgia became the first, and currently only, southeastern state to host any Olympic Games. The Ocoee River was selected to serve as the white-water kayaking course, and after a few hours on the river, I can see why!
When you first arrive, you’ll hear a light-hearted, but comprehensive safety demonstration from the friendly guides before boarding a bus to the put-in all the way in Copperhill, Tennessee, which is an approximately fifteen-minute drive. The Ocoee River runs through both Tennessee and Georgia but becomes the Toccoa River in Georgia.
We were concerned about the possibility of inclement weather, but our raft guides carefully checked the radar and listened to our concerns. Thankful, the storm passed, and we enjoyed a cool, overcast day on the river. When we weren’t shooting down raging rapids, we took in the lovely scenery. Green, soaring peaks of the Appalachian foothills border the river, while colorful wildflowers dot the banks. Copperhill’s history as a mining town is also evident by the old mining railway perched on the copper-rich hillsides. The run-off from these hills turns the Ocoee River a beautiful, patinaed green. After two exciting hours of splashes, smiles, and awesome rapids, our guide returned us safely back to shore.
After two hours in a wet bathing suit, we were thankful that we remembered to pack a change of clothes. Rolling Thunder has spacious bathrooms equipped with showers to change in. After you change into dry clothes, head down the street to grab a locally crafted beer at Buck Bald Brewing which is just over the state line in Copperhill, Tennessee. You’ll also likely be hungry after a morning on the river so be sure to pack some snacks. We opted for an on-the-go charcuterie board comprised of fruit, cheese, and crackers which we enjoyed with some refreshing brews. We tried the Berry My Heart at the Trailer Park, a titillating blackberry sour with a hint of cinnamon spice, and the Grumpy Buck’s Orange Wheat, a light, refreshing beer in the vein of Blue Moon but better. You can’t go wrong with Buck Bald Brewing’s inventive selection of beers on tap!
Our selection of unique cabins in amazing settings are the perfect home base for any mountain adventure! Our cabins are located conveniently close to town and also the Ocoee river! Book your getaway today!
