Riding the Rapids: Our Wild Day on the Ocoee River

Riding the Rapids: Our Wild Day on the Ocoee River

If you're looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure with a splash of chaos and a lot of laughs, rafting the Ocoee River should be on your list. We tackled it last weekend, and it was everything we hoped for—scenic, thrilling, and surprisingly well-fed.

We went with Rolling Thunder River Company, and they made the experience incredibly easy. They provided everything: helmets, life jackets, paddles, and most importantly—confidence. Their team was organized and upbeat from start to finish.

Our guide, Donovan, was a legend. Equal parts skilled and slightly unhinged (in the best way), he kept us laughing between rapids and somehow calm during the terrifying ones. You want a guide who knows the river, respects it, and knows when to shout, "PADDLE!" with conviction. Donovan nailed it.

Rapids That Rocked Us

The Ocoee isn’t for the faint of heart. This river packs a punch with famous Class III and IV rapids like:

• Grumpy – our rude awakening

• Broken Nose – more fun than it sounds

• Double Trouble – earned its name

• Table Saw – intense and fast

• Hell Hole – which we survived… barely

And yes, we did the Olympic section—used in the 1996 Games. It was intimidating, wild, and wildly fun.

More Than Just Rapids

Halfway through, Rolling Thunder surprised us with a catered riverside lunch. We're talking legit food:

• Deli sandwiches

• Pasta salad

• Fresh fruit

• Chips

• And a sweet dessert to top it off

We ate under the trees, swapped stories with other groups, and prepped for the second half of the ride. Pro tip: don’t skip lunch. You’ll need the energy.

Final Thoughts

• Water? Cold.

• Rapids? Epic.

• Guide? Hilarious and experienced.

• Would we do it again? Absolutely.

If you’re heading to the Ocoee, go with Rolling Thunder River Company and ask for Donovan if you want a trip you’ll never forget. And maybe pack an extra dry shirt for the ride home.

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