A whitewater rafting adventure, have you ever thought of jumping with both feet? The beginner can have just as much fun and excitement as the seasoned expert. The following 7 tips will help you safely prepare to take the ride of a lifetime from him.
Tip 1. Make reservations. There are whitewater rafting sites that can be accessed on a walk-in basis, but it’s best to make a reservation, especially during peak season. Decide which river you’d like to experience, then go online and search for available whitewater rafting companies. I know firsthand that the rafting crews near Blue Ridge, TN do a great job meandering the Ocoee River. I highly recommend Ocoee Rafting, LLC, which is located about 2 1/2 hours north of Atlanta.
Tip 2. Allow some extra time. If you are unfamiliar with the area, you may want to allow additional time before your designated travel time. Make sure you get good directions before you leave home. We ended up with the wrong rafting company, but we had plenty of time to correct the mistake and get to the right place with time to spare. FYI: Be sure to bring your reservation number and information with you.
Tip 3. Eat a light meal. With all the waiting, preparation, mini-safety lessons, and the actual river tour, expect to leave between 4-6 hours for a half-day trip. Eat a small meal just before you depart, normally no food or drinks are allowed on the raft.
Tip 4. What to bring? Everyone on the raft will get wet! That said, be sure to wear clothing that dries quickly. For example: a swimsuit under a women’s board shorts, a swimming trunks and a men’s t-shirt. For your feet, water shoes work best, no flip flops on the raft. The rafting company will provide life jackets, helmets, and a paddle. River trips run rain or shine and you are guaranteed to get soaked either way.
Tip 5. What to bring? Bring a set of dry clothes and flip flops to change into after your whitewater rafting run. Be sure to bring a towel for each person. A disposable waterproof camera that can be clipped to shorts is a nice extra. Most rafting companies will have a photographer take pictures at some point during your tour. These photos will be for sale when you get back (Hey, they have to make money somehow). The photos come out pretty good. Ask ahead if you don’t want to mess around with your own waterproof camera.
Tip 6. What not to bring? Do not carry valuables. Don’t wear sunglasses and if you really don’t need your running glasses leave them in your car or bring a head strap or buy a goggle set that covers your glasses. If you sit in the front of the raft, your glasses will get so wet that it will be difficult to see through them. Don’t wear your best sneakers. Lastly, leave your car keys at the whitewater rafting office.
Tip 7. Who should go? Anyone looking for something to do that’s a bit off the beaten path should definitely check this out. Children must be at least 12 years old with most whitewater rafting companies. Those under 18 years of age need permission signed by their parents. Everyone on the raft must sign a liability waiver. If he’s in reasonably good health, I tell him to go, go, go. You will have the trip of a lifetime and good memories to share with your family.
If you enjoy the ride with your guide, be sure to thank them and leave a nice tip when you return to the whitewater rafting center.
Remember to laugh, listen to your guide, have fun with him, enjoy your whitewater rafting trip, and most of all, enjoy the magnificent view.