Middle vs Upper Ocoee River Whitewater Rafting?

Question

Is there any major difference in whitewater rafting the upper vs the middle? I am going rafting and need to decide which one to do. I think it is easier to get reservations on the upper b/c the middles is more popular, but is there any real difference?

Answer 1

Yes, there is a difference.  I did the middle several years ago and had no qualms about going back.  We just returned yesterday from doing the upper-middle combo trip, and the upper is definitely more intense.   My muscles were exhausted by the end of the upper.  I was ready to quit but plugged on.  I was pretty scared during part of the upper and thought I would probably not do it again.  But I'm hoping it's like childbirth & I'll forget the bad stuff!  Oh, and a note:  after our trip, I had a chat with some gals at the gift shop at the Cherokee National Forest.  One of them told me there are lots more repeat business with the middle Ocoee than the Upper.  

That being said, there were a handful of granny-aged ladies on my trip, and they did ok.  So, eat your Wheaties and Paddle on!  Good Luck!

Answer 2

the upper is rated III-IV and the middle is rated III+

See the AW website for more detailed information

Answer 3

Bigger waves on the upper.