Imagine plunging into the excitement of the Ocoee River’s rapids—a classic American whitewater destination—on a private, high-adventure trip designed just for your group. At $115 per person, this 5-hour experience offers you a chance to paddle a nimble Puma raft, with expert guides tailoring every twist and turn to your experience level. Led by seasoned instructors, you’ll surf, swim, and tackle the river’s most exciting stretches, all while enjoying snacks and water along the way.
What we really appreciate about this tour is its personalized nature—it’s only your group on the raft, which means all the attention is on your safety and thrill level. Plus, the focus on technique improvement makes it ideal for those wanting to get more from their rafting skills. On the flip side, the trip is only offered on specific days—Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays—and requires booking about a month in advance, so plan ahead if you want to secure your spot.
This tour is perfect for adventurous families, couples, or groups of friends eager for a high-energy day on the water. It suits those with a moderate physical fitness level who can handle some physical exertion and enjoy watersports. If you’re after a more relaxed float, this might not be your best bet, but if you crave adrenaline and personal instruction, you’ll find plenty to love here.
Key Points

- Private, Customized Experience: Only your group participates, allowing for personalized pacing and instruction.
- Nimble Puma Raft: Known for its agility and exciting ride, offering a different experience from standard rafts.
- Expert Guides: Guides like Ryan, Travis, and Ethan bring years of experience, ensuring safety and fun.
- Varied Activities: Expect surfing, swimming, and exploring the calmer middle section of the river.
- All-Inclusive Value: Snacks and bottled water are provided, adding comfort to your adventure.
- Limited Availability: Offered only on select days, so booking well in advance is advisable.
The Experience in Detail

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Starting Point and Logistics
Your adventure begins at the Cherokee Rafting base in Ocoee, Tennessee, located at 869 US-64. The meeting time is 10:00 am, and the activity lasts roughly 5 hours—a good chunk of your day, but one packed with action. The tour ends back at the starting point, making logistics simple. The site is conveniently near public transportation options, which is a plus for travelers relying on local transit or shuttle services.
What Makes This Trip Unique?
Unlike standard river trips that might float lazily downstream, this outing puts the emphasis on thrills and technical skill. The Puma raft is shorter and narrower than typical rafts, designed to ride the rapids with agility and speed. We loved the way this craft twists through the water—sharper turns, more water splashing, and a real sense of control. It’s a different feel, and if you’re seeking adrenaline, this will deliver in spades.
Guiding and Instruction
One of the standout features here is the expert guidance. Many reviews highlight guides like Ryan, Travis, Ethan, and Aaron as being knowledgeable, patient, and committed to making the trip memorable. They don’t just steer the boat—they teach, advise, and keep safety paramount. For example, one reviewer mentioned, “Travis is an experienced pro who knows how to make the trip awesome,” which means you can trust your guide to keep things fun and safe.
Activities and Stops Along the River
The trip isn’t just about the rapid rides. There are calm stretches, where your guide will encourage you to surf, swim, or simply relax while soaking in the surrounding scenery. These moments are well-loved by participants—one reviewer remarked, “We spent quite a bit of time surfing in areas that usually, you just fly past,” highlighting how this trip emphasizes interactive and engaging experiences.
During these breaks, guides often provide tips and techniques—perfect for those wanting to improve their paddling or learn new skills. You’ll also have opportunities to hike to nearby waterfalls or explore creek beds, adding a bit of adventure on land.
Food and Refreshments
The tour includes shore snacks and bottled water, making sure you stay refreshed amid all the splashing and paddling. It’s a thoughtful addition that keeps everyone energized and comfortable without needing to bring your own supplies.
Group Size and Privacy
The private nature of this tour is a major selling point. With a minimum of two guests and a maximum of 24, you can enjoy a sense of intimacy and personalized attention. Several reviews emphasize how guides like Travis and Ethan made the trip feel very personal, customizing the ride to match their group’s comfort and thrill levels.
Booking and Cost
At $115 per person, the trip offers great value considering the length, skill instruction, and personalized experience. Since bookings are usually made about 32 days in advance, if this adventure sounds appealing, it’s wise to plan ahead. The free cancellation policy also provides flexibility, allowing you to adapt if your plans change.
Who Will Love This Tour?

This offering is ideal for adventure-seekers who want an intense, personalized whitewater experience. Families with older children (16+) who are physically capable will likely get a lot from it, especially if they’re eager to improve their paddling skills or just want a thrilling ride. Groups looking for a private, customizable trip with expert guides will find this particularly appealing. If you prefer a more relaxed float or are new to rafting, you might want to consider other options, but for those craving high-energy fun, this is a top choice.
Final Thoughts
The Cherokee Rafting High Adventure Tour on the Ocoee River stands out for its personalized approach, expert guides, and exhilarating rapids. It offers a value-packed day with diverse activities—surfing, swimming, and paddling—plus the chance to learn from seasoned professionals. The private setting makes it perfect for groups seeking a tailored experience, and the scenic surroundings guarantee unforgettable views.
While it’s tailored for those with some physical fitness and comfort in water, the thrill and instruction make it accessible for most adventurous travelers. If you’re visiting Chattanooga and craving a high-energy outdoor activity with safety and fun in mind, this trip is hard to beat.
FAQs
- What is the minimum age for this trip? The activity is for participants aged 16 and older.
- How long does the tour last? Expect about 5 hours from start to finish.
- Is the trip private? Yes, only your group participates, with a minimum of 2 guests and maximum of 24.
- What’s included in the price? Snacks and bottled water are provided.
- When is this trip available? It is offered only on Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays.
- Do I need prior rafting experience? Not necessarily; guides tailor the trip to your skill level and provide instruction.
- How far in advance should I book? The average booking is made about 32 days ahead.
- What should I wear or bring? Dress for getting wet, and consider bringing a change of clothes for after the trip.
In the end, if you crave that perfect mix of adventure, expert guidance, and a private setting, this high-energy rafting trip on the Ocoee River is likely to deliver just that. It’s a rare opportunity to combine fun, skill-building, and adrenaline in one memorable day—just prepare to get wet and smile a lot.
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