I have fond memories of family road trips through Tennessee when I was a child. Now as a parent, I wanted to create new memories with my own kids. This year, we embarked on a weekend road trip to Tennessee for outdoor adventures like white water rafting, hiking, and horseback riding.
This post was made possible in partnership with the Southeast Tennessee Tourism Association. I received accommodations and some paid attractions/dining to facilitate sharing my experience.
Our Tennessee Road Trip Route – Nashville to Chattanooga to Ocoee
We live in Nashville, so Ocoee, TN is about a 3 hour drive away. It can be done straight through, or with a stopover in Chattanooga for sightseeing. Nashville to Chattanooga is 2 hours, and Chattanooga to Ocoee is 1 hour. I prefer to break up the drive over 2 days, since there’s so much to do in the area.
Whitewater Rafting on Tennessee’s Ocoee River
Ocoee Whitewater Center
We started with white water rafting on the Ocoee River, a popular rafting destination. The river was home to the 1996 Olympic whitewater slalom course, so it’s one of the best spots for rafting worldwide.
Beginners can tackle the 5 mile, class III rapids, while experts can try the 10 mile trip with continuous class III-IV rapids, including the Olympic course. If you can’t raft, explore the Ocoee Whitewater Center by the course to see the flags of participating Olympic countries.
Cherokee Rafting Experience
Rafting was a blast! I loved the thrills – the splashes, plummeting down rapids, and paddling through rough waters. It was rewarding to watch my kids work together and follow our guide’s instructions. A great teamwork activity!
We booked a half-day 1:30 pm trip with Cherokee Rafting. They were organized, experienced and helpful, especially for my teen first-timers. Our funny guide educated us on rafting and the Ocoee River along the continuous rapids. 10/10 experience!
Important: Ocoee rafting is closed Tues/Wed when the TVA diverts river water for hydropower. I found the empty river fascinating to see the day after rafting it!
Cabin Rentals in the Ocoee Area
After rafting, we relaxed at our cabin. For Ocoee cabins, we recommend Welcome Valley Village. Their luxury cabins have nice amenities and river/forest views.
The spacious log cabins feature porches, full kitchens, fireplaces, jacuzzis and more. It would be great for a family reunion or wedding!
More Fun Things To Do in Southeast Tennessee
Beyond rafting, the area offers hiking, horseback riding, train rides, and small town charm. Here are some highlights:
Chilhowee Recreation Area
Stop at the scenic overlooks for mountain views. Hike the 3-mile Benton Falls Trail to see the 65-foot waterfall.
Enjoy swimming and fishing at 7-acre McKamy Lake.
Horseback Riding
Ride horses for a unique perspective of trails and mountain scenery. Blanche Manor Horseback Riding offers rides with gorgeous tri-state views.
Small Town Charm
Explore the area’s small towns like Copperhill, with shops, craft breweries and wineries. Tour local artisans like the Appalachian Bee Farm.
Learn Local History
Visit the Ducktown Basin Museum, a former copper mining hub. See vintage mining equipment on their self-guided walking tour.
Taste the Local Cuisine
Some of the best places we dined at include:
Bakery on Main (Benton) – Delicious BBQ and muffins
Ocoee Dam Deli & Diner – Big menu with southern classics
Ggs Diner (Benton) – Friendly service and big biscuits
Apricot Place Cafe (Ocoee) – Fun sandwich options
Yellowbird Coffee Shop (Copperhill) – Tasty lemonade & popsicles
Riverside Spirits (Benton) – Great local wines
Conclusion: Southeast Tennessee offers adventure and charm just outside Nashville. Experience world-class Ocoee whitewater rafting. Enjoy the outdoors through hiking, horseback riding and more. Don’t miss the small town vibes and tasty local cuisine!
