Ocoee River Unleashed - Video

Ocoee is really a gem. Originally developed by a private company (Alcoa) for hydroelectric power. Basically the upper dam either routes water down the river (for rafting) OR into a wooden flume routed to a powerhouse 4.5-5.0 miles downstream. Now part of TVA, which provides a certain number of days of white water each year.

We rafted the Ocoee river in the late 80s, before a lot of the new development. We wound up with bigger rapids than anticipated due to surges and an unexpected water release. Was one of the most exhilarating experiences I've ever had.

A few tidbits about the Ocoee River. It flows downstream from Copperhill, TN which was one of the largest strip mining operations in the history of the United States and, until recent recovery effort’s, its barren land was visible from space. Its name will give you an idea of what they were largely mining. The river and lakes (Ocoee Lake and Parksville Lake) below the Ocoee Whitewater Center and its adjoining rapids were essentially dead for years from runoff of the mining area but recent recovery efforts have made great strides in reversing that stigma. It makes for a very nice, and clean, area for recreation. If you like to canoe slower moving water you can go to the next dam below Lake Parksville, (Ocoee Dam No. 1) drop in, and canoe down to the Hiwassee river and pick your place to depart. As I recall it is about 12 miles down the Ocoee to the Hiwassee and we went another 12 miles down the Hiwassee before we exited. A nice two day trip. Be aware though (especially if you are in an aluminum canoe) the temperature of the water will dip about 25 degrees fahrenheit when you hit the Hiwassee River and if you have wet feet you will wish you hadn’t. A great place to visit though and one of the hidden gems of TN/NC.

Our paddling community is saddened by the loss of two rafting customers on the Ocoee last weekend. River guides and some of our friends report sudden surges in the river level that made drastic changes in familiar rapids. Even experienced paddlers die on eastern rivers but it is especially hard when it is a recreational rafter. Experienced paddlers evaluate the river for themselves and make a personal decision about the conditions and their skill level. Raft customers trust others to make those decisions. Be careful out there. lizzie

I lost a distant relative on the Snake River in Wyoming many years back. I nearly lost a friend while we ran the rapids in WV about 16 years ago. Thankfully, we can still break bread together as we take our canes and walkers to the dinner table.:B It's not that bad yet. But my whitewater rafting days are certainly over. Blessed with the opportunities and safe returns, I'm quite happy with just the memories.

It is a great river. I have been down it several times. Two women lost their life on it last week on two separate days.
Ocoee claims two lives

Been there - done that. What a fantastic ride. Most bang for buck I can remember.