It’s time to kick back and relax river-style! Tubing and kayaking are two activities that need to be at the top of your “Mountain Fun Bucket List”. While on the water, you can enjoy the stunning scenery and let the flowing waterways of North Georgia work their magic! Kayaking requires some arm strength and a bit of determination, but there are definite moments of downtime. Tubing on the other hand involves a whole bunch of sitting and relaxing! If you’re looking for an adventure that makes you feel at ease and involves kicking your feet up, tubing is the type of trip for you.
These activities are enjoyed by all ages and allow you to see an entirely new side of the Blue Ridge nature. You may experience a rush of excitement navigating through low-class rapids, but that’s what helps you move along! Whether you’re on a kayak paddling with an oar or using your palms to guide your tube, a day on the waters is never wasted! The businesses listed below attribute to why Blue Ridge continues to have visitors explore the great outdoors year after year!
Toccoa Valley Campground
11481 Aska Rd, Blue Ridge, GA 30513 | (706) 838-4317 | Hours: Monday-Friday 10am-5pm, Saturday 10am-6pm
Photo Courtesy of Toccoa Valley Campground
Located only a few miles from downtown Blue Ridge, the Toccoa Valley Campground has everything you could need for an outing in the mountains. Tubing, kayaking, and rafting are all available. Their water route takes you on a private 6-mile stretch of the Toccoa River. It has been one of North Georgia’s most popular attractions for over 50 years!
This tubing trip will take you through parts of the beautiful Toccoa River in less than an hour and a half. Shallowford Bridge Tube Rental is one of the oldest, family-owned companies for tubing in the Aska Adventure Area. Visitors are launched into the river at Sandy Bottoms and are sent off on their breezy cruise. At the end of your adventure, you’ll get an up-close view of the historic steel truss Shallowford Bridge!
Blue Ridge Mountain Kayaking
56 North River Rd. Morganton, GA 30560 | (706) 258-2411 | Hours: Monday-Sunday 9am-6pm
Photo Courtesy of Blue Ridge Mountain Kayaking
You can choose your journey while at Blue Ridge Mountain Kayaking! This kayak-only business is located just 2 miles away from downtown Blue Ridge. They offer 2 thrilling expeditions on the Toccoa River including a 6-mile and 12-mile trip. The 6-mile kayak trip takes travelers an estimated 2 hours to complete and the 12-mile trip takes an estimated 4 hours to complete. While kayaking, adventurers can enjoy fishing, swimming, and breathtaking sights of mountains along the route!
Toccoa Wilderness Tubing
8436 B Aska Rd. Blue Ridge, GA 30513 | (706) 455-6496 | Hours: Monday-Sunday 10am-3pm
Photo Courtesy of Toccoa Wilderness Company
All you have to do is bring your crew and the fun will follow! The Toccoa Wilderness Company makes river tubing easy and enjoyable. With a shuttle to the Sandy Bottoms launch area, your toes will be in the water in a matter of minutes. Sit back and let the water carry you away! The 2-mile float finishes its course at the Shallowford Bridge.
Lakewood Landing Boat Launch
Boat Ramp Rd 30560, Morganton, GA 30560
Photo Courtesy of Lake Blue Ridge Civic Association
If you are already a lucky owner of a kayak or a boat, then this is the spot for you! This boat launch is located on the north side of Lake Blue Ridge. You can spend the day as you please on the 3,000+ acres of the lake. The lake offers unbeatable views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains.
Jon Ron Toccoa River Outfitters
15 Black Ankle Creek Rd. Cherry Log, GA 30522 | (706) 838-0200 | Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 10am-2pm
Photo Courtesy of Jon Ron Toccoa River Outfitters
At Jon Ron Toccoa River Outfitters, there are plenty of options for you to hit the water! There are half-day and full-day solo or guided kayak trips that take you through the upper Toccoa River. They also have trips that can shuttle guests to kayak or canoe at Lake Blue Ridge. If you’re a beginner or pro, Jon Ron Toccoa River Outfitters can satisfy your need to explore the great outdoors!
Toccoa River Tubing Company
340 Toccoa Ave. McCaysville, GA 30555 | (706) 492-5280 | Call for Seasonal Hours
Photo Courtesy of Toccoa River Tubing Company
Grab your family and get ready to go! The Toccoa River Tubing Company, located on the border of Georgia and Tennessee, offers a variety of canoeing, kayaking, and tubing trips. Tubing at this spot of the Toccoa River involves a 1.5-mile and 3-mile float. If you are looking to kayak, there are 1.5-mile and 6-mile trips available. With small rapids, clean water, and picturesque scenery, this is an activity that you’ll have to experience for yourself!
Grab your fishing gear, license, and get ready to go! Fishing in North Georgia is one of the most peaceful, but also exhilarating past-times! Some of the state’s best freshwater spots are conveniently located in and around Blue Ridge. Whether you’re searching for trout, bass, walleye, or all the above, you can find it all by boat or wading in the beautiful chilly waters.
For beginner and advanced anglers, the fishing spots found in North Georgia rank in with top sights and top catches. With waterfront property rentals, Escape to Blue Ridge will ensure that your lodging experience is first-class after a long day of fishing. The summer season in North Georgia brings an assortment of adventure and a wonderful chance to test your fish-catching skills!
There’s a reason why Blue Ridge is named the Trout Capital of Georgia, and you’ll have to come fish around to agree. We picked a few of the best fish-biting spots in North Georgia, and with peak season upon us, you won’t leave empty-handed!
The Toccoa River
Photo Courtesy of KC Outfitters
The trout found in the Toccoa River include rainbow trout, brown trout, and brook trout. The variety of the species found in these waters weigh in heavier than average and seem to continue growing with each passing year. The consistent cold rushing water in this river makes it a prime spot for year-round fishing. The two main sections of the Toccoa River, the Upper and Lower areas, offer almost 20 excellent miles of available fishing spots. Access points for entry include the Blue Ridge Dam, Horseshoe Bend Park, and Tammen Park.
Shallowford Bridge
Photo Courtesy of Explore Georgia
This spot is located on the Toccoa River and provides fishing spots under the bridge or along the side of the river. The bridge is located on Aska Road and is a part of the Benton Mackaye Trail. This section is a Delayed Harvest Area, so you are almost guaranteed a catch if you are with fly fishermen. There are strict ‘catch and release’ policies during certain times of the year, nonetheless, this location is a great spot to strengthen your skills.
Lake Blue Ridge
Photo Courtesy of 365 Atlanta Traveler
The crystal-clear waters and mountain peak views make Lake Blue Ridge one of the most premier spots for a full day of fishing. The waters are packed with a variety of species, with the bluegill being the most plentiful in this area. This lake is known for its walleye, catfish, white bass, smallmouth bass, and bluegill. There are several points to enter these waters, and a boat is necessary if you’re wanting to explore all that Lake Blue Ridge has to offer. Lake Blue Ridge Marina, Morganton Point Recreation Area, Lake Blue Ridge Day Use Area, and Lakewood Landing are top access sites. Lake Blue Ridge’s consistency and abundance of fish make this spot a must-visit!
Ellijay River
Photo Courtesy of Reel Em In Guide Service
This stream in the heart of Ellijay stretches for over 15 miles. Its ample width and length are full of brook trout, rainbow trout, and largemouth bass. These waters are private and some of the most pristine in North Georgia. All you need is your tackle and a little bit of patience and you are good to go!
Cartecay River
Photo Courtesy of Sweet Tea South
One of the best-kept secrets in North Georgia for bream and bass fishing is the Cartecay River. This waterway only 0.2 miles away from Ellijay is stocked with trout once a month. Popular species caught at this stream also include rainbow trout and flathead catfish. The sounds of the flowing waters and rolling hills in view make up a picture-perfect scenery for a fishing adventure. Enter the 34.691475 latitude, and -84.483536 longitude coordinates into your GPS or smartphone to find the Cartecay River.
Rock Creek
Photo Courtesy of Chattahoochee Forest National Fish Hatchery
This fish hatchery spot found in the Chattahoochee National Forest reels in a large population of wild trout. This creek has nearby streams that flow into these waters, providing several spots to cast a line. Rock Creek is nestled in between Dahlonega and Morganton, only 45 minutes from Blue Ridge. It’s found off Forest Service Rd. 69 on State Rte. 60, making it an easy entry for fishermen. This is a prime spot for rainbow trout, and if you’re lucky you’ll catch native brookies in the higher elevations!
Jacks and Conasauga Rivers
Photo Courtesy of Coastal Angler Magazine
These two rivers run parallel to each other, providing about 45 miles of ample fishing opportunities. The Conasauga River is open year-round and Jacks River is open from March to October. The overhanging branches keep these waters cool and have a population of Appalachian brook trout. The rugged terrain and 60-foot waterfall on Jacks River are added bonuses to the fishing experience!
It’s time to cool off and soak in the views from North Georgia’s creeks, rivers, and streams. These small, but mighty, bodies of water offer an extensive variety of activities and adventure. The canopy trees, wildlife, and stunning boulders all around the waters provide plenty of sights for the whole group.
The spectacular waters found in the North Georgia Mountains are truly hidden gems. With hot temperatures rising, jumping into these cool waters is a must. These parks and recreation areas will allow you to experience the beauty of nature in a family-friendly environment. The best part is you can stay as long as you’d like! The sun is shining, the water is flowing and the mountains are calling! So what are you waiting for?! Grab your water shoes and let’s go!
Cooper Creek Recreation Area
Photo Courtesy of USDA Forest Service
Nestled in the North Georgia Mountains, Cooper Creek Recreation Area is a prime location for an afternoon or a weekend of adventure! Activities at this recreation area include hunting, hiking, and trout fishing. Cooper Creek is stocked with rainbow trout so all fishermen will not leave disappointed! After you’ve explored the shady banks of Cooper Creek, grill some burgers and hot dogs for a creek-side cookout!
Mulky Recreation Area
Photo Courtesy of USDA Forest Service
Another spot located along Cooper Creek is the Mulky Recreation Area. This is a simple, yet serene environment to spend some time. Activities involving hiking, fishing, and creek splashing are all offered at the Mulky Recreation Area. Test out your hiking boots on the Yellow Mountain Trail, which follows an old logging road for 3.6 miles through forests of hemlock, pine and hardwood.
Deep Hole Recreation Area
Photo Courtesy of USDA Forest Service
The Deep Hole Recreation Area is just north of Suches, GA, and sits alongside the banks of the Toccoa River. This campground has picnic tables, benches, and trails through the lush forest. There is also a canoe launch available if you’re looking to experience the river in a new way. Bring your portable hammock to swing within the trees and take a nap with the soothing sound of the Toccoa’s waters!
Sandy Bottoms Recreation Area
Photo Courtesy of Lilly Pad Village
The Sandy Bottoms Recreation Area is filled with towering hardwoods and views of the Toccoa River. It is in Morganton, GA, making it not too far from the town of Blue Ridge. There are places to camp, fish, swim, or sit and enjoy the outdoor scenery. This is a site that is pleasant all year long, but there is no better time than now to check it out for yourself!
Tammen Park
Photo Courtesy of Fannin County Chamber of Commerce
Tammen Park is only a few miles north of the town of Blue Ridge and is a great place for the entire family. The park amenities here include a softball field, sheltered pavilions with picnic tables, river access, and a playground. The Toccoa River access at the park is the perfect spot to cast a line or load in your kayak or canoe. With Lake Blue Ridge sitting right around the corner, you’ll find yourself wandering around the area all day!
Amicalola River
Photo Courtesy of 365 Atlanta Traveler
The Amicalola River is a stream part of the Etowah River and lends its name from the popular Amicalola Falls. This site offers walking trails, stunning sights of the water rapids, and a swimming hole. With its sandy beaches, there are multiple places alongside this stream to enjoy an outdoor picnic! After your adventure, head over to Amicalola Falls State Park to catch the 729-foot cascading falls. You can then watch the sunset fall behind the mountains at the Amicalola Falls Lodge and grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink!
Horseshoe Bend Park
Photo Courtesy of Fannin County Chamber of Commerce
This park offers a full day of fun! Located in McCaysville, it is a wonderful place to bring the entire family. The Toccoa River flows alongside the Horseshoe Bend Park offering non-stop views. Picnic tables, volleyball nets, and playgrounds are all available for use at this park. Horseshoe Bend Park is also the location of ‘Pickin’ In the Park’. ‘Pickin’ In the Park’ is an event with live music from local artists. It occurs every Thursday, May- September, from 6pm to dusk and is a relaxing place to enjoy a summer’s evening!
The Hiwassee River
Photo Courtesy of Simply Awesome Trips
The Hiwassee River begins in Towns County and flows through the spectacular North Georgia Mountains, into North Carolina, and eventually merging into the Tennessee River. Activities at the Hiwassee River include walking, fly-fishing, kayaking, or tubing. There are plenty of sights and plenty of opportunities for adventure!
There are a lot of Blue Ridge mountain cabin rentals with
great views, charming décor and proximity to activities and recreation
destinations. Some have many bedrooms and are great for large families and
groups of friends, and some are cozy and quaint that are perfect for a small
family or a two-couple or BFF getaway. Regardless of the cabin size and
location after the sun sets and dusk falls across the mountains what better way
to relax than to sit around the fire pit with your favorite people telling stories,
roasting marshmallows, and creating memories to last a lifetime. On your next
Escape to Blue Ridge, consider one of these ten cabins that have fantastic fire
pits!
Bearway To Heaven
Perched on a forested hillside with an absolutely breathtaking view of the lush green mountains in the distance and Lake Blue Ridge shimmering below, this magnificent log home is surrounded by the glory of nature, and close to all the outdoor activities that the Aska Adventure Area has to offer. Inside, its cathedral ceilings and huge windows let in light, create an open and airy feel, and maximize the view. Sunrises are especially spectacular! Or you can take in the view from a rocking chair or roast marshmallows over the fire pit, which has five colorful Adirondack chairs encircling it.
After the day’s activities, you’ll slumber in comfort in one of five comfortable bedrooms, each with luxurious bedding and a unique quilt. But the best thing about Bearway to Heaven is the blissful way you’ll feel when you’re there, and the memories of that feeling that you’ll take home with you.
Big Buck Lodge
Big Buck Lodge is a charming mountain chalet in a lovely wooded setting. But what sets this tri-level vacation home apart from the others are the unique, one of a kind touches you won’t find anywhere else. Built by local craftsman Jerry Sisson of Jerry’s Mountain Furniture for his daughter, it’s made of handcrafted wood floor-to-ceiling and throughout the house, with unique log beds and branch chairs and tables in every room.
Each of the three bedrooms are outfitted with a queen bed topped with a cozy quilt and a screened-in deck or balcony. There’s plenty of seating on the lower screened-in porch, including rocking chairs and a swing. Afterward, you can have a relaxing soak in the hot tub, or toast marshmallows over the fire pit while you enjoy the evening breeze. Big Buck Lodge’s ambiance is its best attribute. Its seasonal glorious views of mountain sunrises and sunsets, serene natural setting and the relaxed and happy way you’ll feel while you’re there make for an unforgettable getaway.
Come On Inn
Come on Inn and make yourself at home. In fact, that’s the very reason this cabin was given its welcoming name. Its cozy environment will make you feel like this is your home away from home right away. The cabin’s beautiful interior mixes mountain cabin decor with charming country accents to create a unique and inviting atmosphere all its own.
This gorgeous mountain home’s riverfront location is the envy of many other Blue Ridge cabin rentals. Sitting right on the shores of the Toccoa River, close to the Aska Adventure area. In the evening, there’s no better spot for stargazing than the lovely fire pit area. Gather some chairs, listen to the river flow and the crickets chirp, and take in these special moments with family or friends. What a serene way to end each day.
Cruach Mor
Peaceful and divinely welcoming, Cruach Mor will give you feelings of relaxation from the moment you pull up the driveway. The name is the battle cry for the Scottish Clan MacTavish, which the owner’s ancestors belonged to. It loosely translates to “To the Mountains!” Comfortable and unique, the cabin is filled with traditional log cabin decor and has ceiling fans in all of the bedrooms and living areas. Cedar wood lines the walls and truly shows off the unique style of the cabin. Sink into the leather couch in front of the fireplace in the living area and relax.
The outdoor amenities overlook a beautiful area and are vast! The mountain view here overlooking the valley below will mesmerize you. Enjoy a screened-in porch, rocking chairs, a warm and inviting fire pit, a hot tub after those long days of exploring the area, a gas grill, and seating for dining. This is a perfect spot in the cabin to spend late nights relaxing and reminiscing about the day of fun you just had.
SpyGlass
SpyGlass is the name, the view will explain. The largest of our Blue Ridge GA cabin rentals, seize the opportunity to stay in this $5 million custom resort lodge with its own private pool and spa, where you can come and go by helicopter, and treat the entire family to 8,000 sq. ft. of pure luxury and decadence. SpyGlass is the stuff of fairy tales. Every detail, from the large log cross-beamed ceilings down to the polished wood floors, is dressed in elegance.
Start your morning keeping fit and healthy with the help of
gym-quality weight and exercise machine. After your workout relax as you
marvel at the wide-open 40-mile views before you. Set out fresh fruit and
snacks in the gazebo for your guests while they swim, sunbathe or chat at
tables and chairs throughout the deck. After dark, the fire pit is an
enchanted place for stargazing and making s’mores.
Stone Pine Lodge
Stone Pine Lodge is not your typical Blue Ridge mountain cabin rental. As you’d expect, this brand new vacation home has the rustic cabin feel, secluded private setting and breathtaking view of the mountains from its tri-level decks. There are enormous windows in its great room that let you take in nature in all its expansive glory. The cabin is also the epitome of effortless modern luxury, putting everything–state-of-the-art at your fingertips. With sound system TVs, lighting, remote gas fireplaces and hot tub with Bluetooth-enabled speakers throughout all with simplistic operations, the better to relax and enjoy the comforts of your home away from home.
The cabin can accommodate 11 guests in its three comfortable bedrooms (all with custom king beds with pillow top mattresses), a loft with a twin over queen bunk bed made of striking Amish wormy wood logs, and a queen-size rough saw timber sofa lounger in the game room. Step outside onto the decks and you can fire up the gas grill for a barbecue, settle into a rocker with a drink or soak your cares away in the six-person hot tub in the warmth of the custom level gas fireplace (there’s a wood-burning one too, on the entertainment deck above). Other options for outdoor fun include horseshoes, a corn hole game, rope swing, deck hammock and fire pit with seating for 12.
The Ridge Carlton
Are you looking for a tranquil, peaceful, and accessible place to stay that has an incredible view? The Ridge Carlton is precisely what you’ve been searching for! A perfect place where family and friends will want to gather around the fire – whether indoors or outdoors, open up a bottle of wine and make a memory together. A place that makes you feel like you’re on the top of the mountain gazing upon the great long distance view and yet is only 15 minutes away from both Ellijay and Blue Ridge. From a warm and inviting living area, as you first arrive, to a fully stocked kitchen with beautiful granite countertops, you’ll feel immediately at home once you arrive. The family room is cozy and comes with a gas fireplace – the perfect place to spend some time after a long day making memories. Make a delicious meal and gather around the comfortable wooden dining table. Enjoy some games and fun in the downstairs den. It’s also a great spot to watch some movies, play some giant Connect Four, and enjoy a beverage (there’s a wet bar and wine fridge!)
The outdoor areas at The Ridge Carlton are immaculate. Awaken early enough to spot the sun rising from the front porch and then catch the sunset in the evening off the back porch! Bring your marshmallows to roast at the fire pit and you’ll have a gas grill too. Retreat to the lower deck to rest your tired legs in the hot tub that seats 6. There are endless activities around the cabin! The home is also near so many beautiful spots that are within a quick 10 to 15 minute drive. You’ll have easy access to both downtown Ellijay and Blue Ridge.
Toccoa Lookout Cottage
Toccoa Lookout Cottage is not your average Blue Ridge GA cabin rental. With 3,000 square feet of gorgeously decorated living space and four bedrooms to accommodate 11 people, all the comforts of home and amenities of a private resort, and the Toccoa River running through the property, this is a very special place. Beautifully crafted with two huge decks with plenty of seating overlooking the Toccoa and a third deck down the steps at the river’s edge with a picnic table, chairs and a fire pit, the property is customized for outdoor living.
Inside, this magnificent, updated, and unique home is warm and inviting. It is elegantly furnished and decorated in soothing, calming neutral shades that complement the serene, tranquil ambiance of its natural setting. The cottage’s greatest asset is the way it will make you feel when you’re there and remember long after you leave.
Tondelia
Stepping into Tondelia, you’ll immediately be taken by its views and open, airy feel, with spacious rooms and windows at every turn. You’ll marvel at the careful attention to detail that’s been lavished throughout the cabin, where the game room is every bit as beautiful as the main floor and gorgeous bedrooms.
Looking for pure relaxation? Lounge on the leather sofas
watching the big game, warmed by the cozy gas fireplace. Grill some burgers and
eat lunch on the deck during halftime. Spend the afternoon in the gorgeous game
room, playing billiards or soaking in the indoor Jacuzzi, gazing out at lush
and vibrant fall foliage from your magnificent windows on the world. Hire a
local chef to prepare a celebratory dinner for you and your guests. Enjoy some
pre-dinner drinks and music out on the deck. Then retreat to the elegant dining
room, where you’ll be treated to a fabulous meal and amazing views as the stars
start peeking through the skylights above you. After dinner, bring some hot chocolate or a Spanish
coffee down to the fire pit. Reminisce with your old friends by the light of
the moon.
Woodentops
Woodentops is the perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of your everyday hectic life. Located in Mineral Bluff, just 15 minutes from the shops and restaurants of downtown Blue Ridge, this charming real-log cabin is the ideal family vacation destination. With room for eight guests in three bedrooms, the accommodations are spacious, comfortable and inviting.
You can breathe in fresh mountain air while relaxing with a glass of wine in a rocking chair or soaking in the soothing bubbles of the walk-in hot tub. Or settle into an Adirondack chair and pop open a bag of marshmallows to toast over the fire pit. The best thing about Woodentops is the peaceful, relaxed, refreshed way you’ll feel when you’re there, having fun with your family and friends (even the canine ones—you’re welcome to bring two small dogs). It’s the kind of magical place where memories are made, and yours will last a lifetime!
The Southeastern United States is known for having some of the best whitewater around. Here in Blue Ridge we are within 1 hour of 3 action packed, exciting rivers and 2 hours away from one of the most challenging rivers in the state! Our cabins make the perfect Home Base for day trips, exploring the beauty of Mother Nature and soaking up the Appalachian Lifestyle.
Cartecay River
Photo Courtesy of Ellijay River Outfitters
Just thirty minutes from downtown Blue Ridge, you can access the put-in to the 91-mile Cartecay River off Highway 52. This class I-II river starts in foothills of the Appalachian Mountains and runs West and if you follow it pass the common commercial takeout, you’ll float right through the center of town! The river begins with a nice, calm current as it meanders through the valley. About halfway through your float, the rapids begin to increase in frequency and in fun! The last quarter of the river offers some fun rapids that aren’t too terribly technical and end in a last hurrah at Blackberry Falls. This intimidating looking rapid is really just a big slide and is tons of fun to run down regardless of the your water vessel. There are two outfitters, Cartecay River Experience or Ellijay River Outfitters, to help you with shuttle assistance or to rent you a tube, kayak, or canoe.
Bonus: Since Ellijay is the Apple Capital of Georgia, there are plenty of Apple Houses around to stock up on cider, breads, and of course a wide variety of apples!
Nantahala River
Photo courtesy of Nantahala Outdoor Center
About an hour Northeast of Blue Ridge after passing through
the mountain towns of Murphy and Andrews in Western North Carolina the road
will narrow up and you will begin to drop down into the Nantahala Gorge. There’s
just something about this gorge that’s special. You can hang a right on old
river road and watch the pro kayakers take on the Cascades and Upper Nantahala
or continue straight to the lower Nantahala and stop at one of many outfitters that
offer guided and non-guided rafting adventures.
The 8-mile Nantahala River is a Class II-III River that runs
right along US HWY 76 deep through the Nantahala National Forest. There is no shortage
of fun on this exciting river! The opening rapid Pattons Run is a good class
III rapid to get your blood pumping right off the bat! After that enjoy a good
hour or two of fun, fast, cold water and about 20 named rapids. The river ends
with the Grand Finale of The Falls. This class III rapid has an observation
deck for passerby’s to stop and watch as the kayaks, canoes, and rafts navigate
the technical section of fast white water as they try to pick the perfect line to
conquer The Falls!
Bonus: Eat at River’s End after a fun day on the water. Enjoy delicious food, friendly service, and a spectacular view of the river below.
Ocoee River
Photo Courtesy of Ocoee Rafting
Traveling a little less than an hour Northwest from Blue
Ridge the Ocoee River, home of the 1996 Olympics is 10 miles of Whitewater fun!
The aforementioned Olympic competition took place on the upper section of the
Ocoee River. This super technical section of the river features some of the
biggest most challenging rapids and is only able to be experienced for 34 days
per year. The Middle Ocoee is 5 miles of class III and IV rapids. Hop on Mother
Nature’s natural roller coaster and squeal with delightment as your trusty raft
guide navigates you and your party down the river with great care to maximize
the fun! From the put in at Grumpy’s to the ending rapid at Hell’s Hole, you
will never forget the fun and excitement of a trip down the Ocoee!
Bonus: Love to mountain bike? The Cherokee National Forest features miles of mountain biking trails.
Chattooga River
Photo Courtesy of Wildwater
Made famous after the filming of the movie Deliverence, the
Chattooga River is about two hours from Blue Ridge. Flowing across both Georgia
and South Carolina, the Chattooga River is divided into 4 sections with section
4 being probably the hardest in the Southeast. The class III section increases
in difficulty from a mild beginning to a challenging final rapid at Bull Sluice. Being that section 4 of the Chattooga begins at
the hardest rapid on section 3 should lead you to believe that this will be a much
more challenging run, and you’d be absolutely right about that. The crux of
section 4 is at the Five Falls Section of the river. These Class IV rapids are
no joke with a 75 foot drop from the beginning to end.
Bonus: Add to your adrenaline rush by booking a Zipline trip where you fly through the sky, over lakes, and among nature!
