The quiet, scenic Toccoa River meanders through the North Georgia mountains en route to Tennesee’s Appalachians. It’s rare to find a 90-mile stretch of river that flows northward. Locals and travelers utilize the Toccoa River in various ways, including fly fishing, kayaking, and, of course, tubing. Once the Toccoa flows through McCaysville, GA, into neighboring Copperhill, TN, it suddenly becomes the Ocoee River, home to some of the wildest whitewater rapids in the country. In fact, the Ocoee played host to the whitewater slalom during the 1996 Summer Olympics. Luckily for Mountain Oasis’ guests, our massive selection of North Georgia mountain cabin rentals are only a short drive from a half-day of whitewater rafting near Blue Ridge, GA.
Whitewater Rafting near Blue Ridge, GA: Tame the Ocoee
There are a handful of regional outfitters that offer guided whitewater rafting near Blue Ridge, GA, including Rolling Thunder River Company, Ocoee Rafting, and Carolina Ocoee. Because availability can fluctuate during peak seasons, it’s crucial to have a back-up plan or two if you’re looking for a last-minute trip. From early March through October, thrill-seekers can confront the Ocoee River’s class III, IV, and V rapids. As mentioned earlier, the Ocoee carves through the southern Appalachians near the Georgia-Tennessee border.
Lush forestry wholly encloses the Ocoee, creating a jarring feeling of isolation. However, the natural beauty of the rolling hills has a much-needed calming effect. Boulders jut above the river’s surface seemingly at random, and the thunderous rapids echo through the valley, warding off wildlife. As a result, the Ocoee River remains one of the nation’s most beloved whitewater destinations. With guided trips starting at just $33 per person, thrill-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts alike cannot resist the Ocoee’s call.
Whitewater Alternative: Kayaking on the Toccoa
Yes, the Ocoee provides the wildest whitewater rafting near Blue Ridge, GA, but not everyone has an affinity for splashes, crashes, and shrieks. Thankfully, the Toccoa River itself is a heavenly kayaking (and tubing) locale that’s equally serene and picturesque. This crease in the earth is a makeshift middle ground between the North Georgia mountains and the Appalachians. Ellijay River Outfitters and the aforementioned Rolling Thunder River Company both provide quiet, self-guided adventures near Blue Ridge, GA. Ellijay River Outfitters operates on the Cartecay River, which features class II rapids. Beginners, families, and nature lovers can appreciate the idyllic mixture of natural enchantment and semi-tame rapids. If you’re looking for an afternoon of whitewater rafting near Atlanta, GA, that the kids can also enjoy, tandem kayaks (or tubes) just might do the trick!
Luxury Cabin Rentals in Blue Ridge, GA
Combine a half-day of whitewater rafting near Blue Ridge, GA, with 18 holes of golf, a stroll at an apple orchard, or a zipline canopy tour. The perfect place to start and finish each day of adventure, exploration, and relaxation is inside one of Mountain Oasis’ luxurious North Georgia cabin rentals. We have a large fleet of modern cabin homes within minutes of downtown Blue Ridge, GA. “Common” amenities and luxuries include mountain-view decks, fire pits, fireplaces, chef’s kitchens, outdoor hot tubs, and rustic yet sophisticated furnishings and decor. Please give us a call today at 706-276-4343 to avoid hidden, third-party fees. We’ve also listed a few choice rentals below for your viewing pleasure.
