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Rivers We Raft
Chattooga River, GA/SC
The Chattooga River was the first designated National Wild and Scenic River which included commercial whitewater rafting. Designated in May 1974, Wildwater's founder, Jim Greiner, was instrumental in pulling together the politicians and players to make it happen. A natural flow river, there are only three commercial rafting companies with permits to run guided trips. The Chattooga is the southernmost whitewater river with Class III and above rapids in close proximity to Charlotte, Atlanta, and cities south. Season begins in mid-March and runs through mid-November.
Chattooga River
Ocoee River, Southeastern TN
1996 Whitewater Canoe and Kayak Olympic Venue, the Ocoee is a favorite to tens of thousands of paddlers each year. Convenient to Atlanta, a half-day rafting trip is feasible. Wildwater's location is the closest to the put-in and take-out allowing more choices for launch times and a shorter shuttle time. This river is controlled release by TVA with a permit from FERC. Two sections are rafted. Season runs on weekends from mid-March to Memorial Day, Thursday though Tuesday Memorial Day to Labor Day, then back to weekends through October. Considered an intermediate level river.
Ocoee River
Nantahala River, Western NC
A vacation tradition for many Smoky Mountain visitors, this river offers the most choices for novice and accomplished paddlers alike. This river is controlled release by Duke Energy with a permit from FERC. An easy river with rapids rated up to Class III. Considered a great family or beginner river. Choice of trips from Fully Guided to Raft & Rail© to Ducky Rentals.
Nantahala River
Pigeon River, Eastern TN
American Outdoors, the leading outdoors industry organization, considers the Pigeon River as the fastest growing whitewater river in popularity in the United States. Located just minutes from the vacation hub of Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and Sevierville and only 30 minutes from Maggie Valley, NC. After years of industrial use, the Pigeon River is now harnessed to generate hydroelectricity and has been transformed into a recreational resource. The Pigeon River is an interesting juxtaposition from the commercial centers of the Smokies and adds to the extensive outdoor offerings of the Smokies.
The Pigeon is a controlled release river with guaranteed water four days; Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturdays from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Water is released by Carolina Power and Light from Waterville Dam located on the Tennessee/North Carolina state line. The Pigeon River Gorge is blanketed in hardwoods and fall color is awe inspiring in the Autumn.
Pigeon River
