Ocoee River & Copperhill

Whitewater gorge — rafting, copper history, TN/GA line adventure

🚗 2–2½ hours from Johnson City · ~110 miles · Johnson City via US-64 E through Murphy NC area

Adventure seekers Rafting groups Summer splash day

Best season: Rafting Mar–Oct (dam releases); scenic drive year-round

Getting there

Map shows Copperhill, TN. Times vary from Kingsport and Bristol.

The Ocoee is the Southeast's premier whitewater day trip — half-day guided trips are the norm for first-timers (Class III–IV depending on section).

After rafting, Copperhill's blue line sidewalk lets you stand in Tennessee and Georgia at once; shops and BBQ reward tired paddlers.

Morning

Raft check-in

Most trips are AM or PM half-day; book weeks ahead for summer Saturdays.

Midday

On the river

3–4 hours with shuttle; wear synthetic clothes and secure sunglasses.

Afternoon

Copperhill stroll

Late lunch, state line photos, optional copper history museum stops.