Best Whitewater Rafting Near Atlanta
Grab a paddle and hang on tight, some of the best whitewater rafting near Atlanta, Georgia is closer than you may think! Scenic and thrilling rides await all different types of adventures and so many memories are waiting to be made. One of the best parts? All this magic can be found just a short drive from Atlanta.
The Ocoee River
Located just an hour and a half north of Atlanta, the Ocoee River is a hotspot for whitewater rafting. River goers come from all over the United States and around the world to experience the thrilling rapids and stunning Cherokee national Forest. Two five mile sections of rollicking whitewater make the Ocoee River a popular destination for adventure seekers and a sweet spot for weekend getaways and vacations. The Ocoee River is a dam-controlled river so water releases for rafting depend upon a schedule set by the Tennessee Valley Authority (April through September) (click here to see our river schedule and booking availability).
Adventure options on the Ocoee River include trips down the Upper Ocoee, Middle Ocoee, or both sections together for the Full Ocoee River experience. No previous whitewater rafting experience is necessary as our professional guides are prepared and skilled at navigating the river and successfully instructing paddlers of all experience levels. State law requires that children be at least 12 years of age to raft the Ocoee River. Come join us on the Ocoee River for the best whitewater rafting near Atlanta!
The Nantahala River
A scenic two and a half hour drive from Atlanta will bring you to the family friendly Nantahala River in the mountains of western North Carolina. Both thrill seekers and nature lovers alike find entertaining adventures on the Nantahala River. A beginner’s level whitewater experience, the Nantahala River trips offer eight miles of class II and III whitewater rafting and surreal views of the Great Smoky Mountains. This river is a popular destination for families visiting the Smoky Mountains. The Nantahala is also dam-controlled and pulls its water from the bottom of Nantahala Lake.
Our Nantahala River rafting trips go out seven days a week beginning in early April and ending in early October. It’s generally advisable to book your adventure in advance as the more popular months and weekend slots tend to fill up quickly! The U. S. Forest Service requires that all children weigh at least 60 pounds or be at least 7 years of age to raft the feisty Nantahala River. If you are hunting for some of the best whitewater rafting near Atlanta, you can’t go wrong with a trip down the Nantahala River!
Whether you are looking for a half or full day of adventure, the Ocoee and Nantahala rivers provide some of the best whitewater rafting near Atlanta. If you are looking for a spectacular weekend getaway, a family vacation, or a group outing, we’ve got the perfect solution! Call us or book online today, we can’t wait to see you on the river!
