FAQ about Whitewater Rafting and Ziplining

Frequently Asked Questions About White Water Rafting

Wildwater has been in business for 45 years and has maintained an excellent safety record. Our Team Members go through extensive training before being “checked out” as a guide. All of our guides are trained in CPR and First Aid with many being trained in Advanced Wilderness First Aid as well. Wildwater takes pride in providing our Guests with a quality trip that is extremely enjoyable; however, due to the nature of whitewater rafting and other associated activities, Wildwater Ltd. and its affiliates assume no responsibility for personal safety or loss of personal property. All participants are required to complete a personal liability and photo release form before their trip.

How are rapids rated for difficulty?

International Scale of River Difficulty
Class I- Easy  Few or no obstructions; fast moving water with riffles; risk to swimmers is slight.

Class II- Novice  Wide clear channels; occasional maneuvering; rocks and medium-sized waves are easily missed by trained paddlers; swimmers are seldom injured; assistance is helpful but rarely needed.

Class III- Intermediate  Rapids with moderate, irregular waves which may be difficult to avoid and capable of swamping a boat; complex maneuvers in fast current and narrow passages require good boat control; large waves, holes and strainers may be present but are easily avoided; powerful current; scouting advisable; swimmers are unlikely to be injured but assistance may be needed to avoid a long swim.

Class IV- Advanced  Intense, powerful rapids; turbulent water; may involve long, unavoidable wave trains, holes or constricted passages demanding fast maneuvers under pressure; may require “must” moves above dangerous hazards; risk of injury to swimmers is moderate to high; group assistance to swimmers requires practiced skills.

Class V- Expert  Long, obstructed, turbulent rapids; drops may contain very large unavoidable waves, holes or steep congested chutes with complex demanding routes; several of these factors may be combined at the upper level of this class; rescue is extremely difficult; above average rescue skills are essential. Risk of injury is real.

Class VI- Almost Impossible  Difficulties of Class V are carried to the limits of navigability; very dangerous; risks are high and rescue may be impossible; for teams of experts only under favorable conditions. Risk of injury is high.

What if I cannot swim?

Many rafters cannot swim but you should be comfortable in water. On all trips, Coast Guard-approved PFDs are provided and must be worn. On advanced trips it is recommended that you have basic swimming skills. In general you should be comfortable in water and all rafters should be able to follow directions.

Do I need to be physically fit?

Participation is required on all of Wildwater’s trips, you must paddle. On all Chattooga trips there is a 1/4 mile hike into and out of the river carrying all equipment needed for the trip. You do not need to be an athlete, however good physical condition is recommended.  PFD limitations are a maximum girth of 52″. For any medical conditions that may be affected by strenuous activity please consult your doctor. IF YOU ARE PREGNANT, YOU WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO PARTICIPATE, IT IS NOT WORTH THE RISK!

What do I wear?

In the summer; shorts or a bathing suit, and t-shirt  are recommended, shoes that will stay on your feet are required. For the spring and the fall we recommend layering with synthetics such as synthetic fleece or polypropylene. On the Chattooga River wetsuits are provided March, April, October and November free of charge. The Nantahala & Ocoee Rivers rent wetsuits for $10. Wetsuit booties rent for $5. Check out our “What to Wear” page for more information about seasonal weather and clothing to wear. Well Dressed Rafter

What happens if there is bad weather?

Rain: Trips go rain or shine. You are going to get wet anyway so why not enjoy your river trip when other activities like hiking and biking are better suited for sunny and dry weather. Rainy days also provide some of the most beautiful scenery as fog and mist rises off the river. A baseball cap can be worn under your helmet and help by keeping rain out of your eyes.

Lightning:  In the event of a locally severe lightning storm, trips may stop and pull over on the bank. Exposure while on the river is at a minimum because of the high ridge lines and trees that surround the river. Trip starts may be delayed if a storm is occurring at the rafting center.

High Water/ Flood: Wildwater, in conjunction with the agencies that license the outfitters, have established a protocol for paddling at specific water levels. On the Chattooga, as the water level rises, we move upstream. If the water levels on any of the rivers exceeds safe levels, trips may be cancelled or relocated to another river. In the case of a trip cancellation, Guests are offered the option to reschedule, get a credit voucher or receive a full refund.

Do I have to fill a raft?

No. Whether you come by yourself or with a large group we can accommodate you on a trip. If you do not have a full boat we will combine groups. The rafts on the Chattooga hold 4-6 Guests per raft and on the Ocoee, and Nantahala Rivers the rafts hold 6-7 Guests. These numbers may vary depending on the size of the trip. During the spring and fall, small trips may be combined or cancelled.

What meals are provided and what is for lunch?

Lunch is included on some trips: Nantahala Raft & Rail©, Chattooga III & IV and the Ocoee Combo. The Chattooga Lunch consists of a make your own sandwich buffet, pickles, chips & salsa, fruit, veggies, trail mix, cookies and a drink. Vegetarian options are typically available; let us know if you have special needs or a large group with specific concerns.  (The exact menu varies slightly depending on the trip).

The Chattooga Overnighter includes two lunches, campfire steak dinner and a full hot breakfast. If you wish to have an alcoholic drink with or after dinner please bring your own (in moderation) and we will carry to camp.

What does Dam Controlled mean?

Dam controlled rivers have scheduled and unscheduled releases. Water is held in lake and most often released to make electricity, that released water provides fun whitewater on a consistent basis. The Ocoee, and Nantahala Rivers are all dam controlled.

What are guaranteed days on the Ocoee River?

On the Ocoee there are releases on weekends spring and fall. Summer releases are Thursday through Monday on the Middle Ocoee River and weekends on the Upper Ocoee River.

How will the Chattooga River levels affect my trip?

The Chattooga River is a free flowing river and is affected by the amount of rain received in the area. Typically the Chattooga has higher water in the spring with water levels dropping in mid-late summer. If you are looking for big whitewater then we recommend the spring or early summer. If you are looking for a great day out in the wilderness with family and friends with less intense whitewater, then the summer is our recommendation.

The exact stretch of river you will navigate depends on the water levels on the day of your trip. Please expect changes if the water is very high or very low. Water levels below .85 can cause changes in river schedules- please check with our reservations to make sure your trip time has not changed before traveling to the Chattooga location.

What factors determine the age/weight requirements?

The line has to be drawn somewhere. We have seen kids below the minimums that were perfectly capable and we have seen kids that meet all the minimum requirements, but still are not ready!

The determining factors usually revolve around the likelihood of a raft flip or swim and at what age a child can listen to and understand instructions. Can the child understand the dangers?  Does the child have enough size or body fat to have control of their body in icy water? Can the child rescue themselves or will the parents be so concerned about a young child they put their own health at risk?

Minimum ages and/or weights are set by the managing agency that regulates each river. Wildwater will not knowingly take an underage person on our trips, we do ask and we do require a signature from a parent signifying proper age. Should you push the limit with your child? No, it is not worth the risk!