Wildwater Adventure Center White Water Rafting

Is rafting really safe?
Wildwater Ltd. has been in business for 30 years and has maintained an excellent safety record. Our Team Members go through extensive training before being "checked out" as a trained 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 both safe and 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.

What if I cannot swim?
Many rafters cannot swim but you should be comfortable in water. On all trips, Coast Guard-approved life jackets 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 Ltd.'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 a good physical condition is recommended. Life jacket 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!

What do I wear?
In the summer shorts, a bathing suit and shoes that will stay on your feet are recommended. For the spring and the fall we recommend layering with synthetics such as fleece or polypropylene. On the Chattooga River Wetsuits are provided March, April, October and November free of charge. Other rivers rent wetsuits for $10. Wetsuit booties rent for $5.

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 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 ridgelines 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 Federal 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 4-5 per raft and on the Ocoee, Nantahala and Pigeon Rivers the rafts hold 6 people. These numbers may vary depending on the size of the group. Whitewater rafting is a participatory activity and everyone is expected to help paddle.

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 flip or swim and at what age a child listens to and understands 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 usually 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!