It’s easy to get stressed while on vacation, which makes for a terrible time, and nobody wants that. Always plan your adventures with plenty of time to get to them. Showing up late throws everything out of whack, and affects, not only you, but everyone around you. Remember to print out confirmations, or keep the email confirmation in your inbox for quick access, so that you won’t have to remember what company you made a reservation with (trust us, it happens). Don’t cram too many activities into one day. Plan some down time to rest and enjoy the scenery around you. The Great Smoky Mountains, the Nantahala National Forest, and the Cherokee National Forest are truly peaceful places to visit. They are a great getaway from anything that causes high stress. Below are a few ways to enjoy a stress-free whitewater rafting trip with Carolina Outfitters and Carolina Ocoee.
Reputable White Water Outfitter
The first thing you want to do is go with a reputable whitewater rafting outfitter. Carolina Outfitters on the Nantahala River in North Carolina, and Carolina Ocoee on the Ocoee River in Tennessee are terrific choices. They’ve been in the business of whitewater rafting for over 30 years and are family owned–committed to making your satisfaction top priority. Customer ratings are excellent, and their experienced and professional whitewater rafting guides will provide you and your family a fun and memorable white water rafting trip. Book early to insure you get a reserved spot on a raft. Trip times can fill up fast with no warning!
Wear the Right Gear
A PFD (personal floatation device) is the most important piece of gear for whitewater rafting and must be a Coast Guard approved PFD. While the Nantahala River doesn’t require helmets, the Ocoee River does. We provide PFDs, helmets, and all equipment and gear for your trip, plus transportation to and from the river. Splash jackets are available for free if you need more protection from the cold river. Things you might want to bring are sunglasses (with chums attached), wear quick-dry clothes or a bathing suit or shorts and T-shirt. Try to avoid cotton. Wear shoes that stay on your feet such as Crocs in sports mode, Tennis shoes, or water shoes. Apply sunblock especially on sunny days. Also bring a change of clothes and a towel for when you get out of the water. You will get wet! Bring a smile and prepare to have fun! The goal is to be comfortable in whatever activities you have planned.
Pay Attention During the Trip Speech
Your guide will give a trip speech which will cover the introduction and plan for your trip down the river. It’s important to wear your gear properly (the guide will check to make sure you’re wearing your gear the right way). Other topics covered are: paddling commands, proper use of paddles, and what is expected of you while rafting. They will cover what to do when you get tossed out of the boat and go for a “swim.” We can’t stress it enough, pay attention to the trip speech. Trust your guide. He/she has had extensive training to guide you down the river while making sure you have the best time white water rafting.
Listen to and Follow Your Guide’s Instructions on the River
While rafting down the Nantahala river, or Ocoee River, please listen to and follow your guide’s instructions and commands as you help paddle the raft. If he/she tells you to paddle forward, paddle forward in sync. If he/she tells you to stop, stop paddling. His job is to get you down the river without incident while giving you a fun-filled trip that you’ll remember for years to come. Our guides are fun-loving and are sure to keep you entertained the whole trip.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate and Fuel Your Body
Drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated. The southern mountains in Western North Carolina are hot and humid all summer long. You’ll be on the river for about two and a half hours. Also eat a good nutritious snack to keep you strong while paddling. And you might want to go potty before your trip–no bathrooms on the river!
Keeping the above in mind will go a long way in making your whitewater rafting trip an adventure to remember. Also bring a great attitude with a bright smile. The goal is to have a stress-free fun adventure in the beautiful and wild Great Smoky Mountains and Nantahala Gorge!
Book your trip with Carolina Outfitters for the Nantahala River in North Carolina or Carolina Ocoee for the Ocoee River in East Tennessee.
