One of the legacies
of the 1996 Summer Olympics, the Ocoee Whitewater Center was the location
of the Canoe, Kayak and Slalom events. Located on Hwy. 64 north of
McCaysville, the center was built by the U.S. Forest Service.
Normally, whitewater adventure runs from June to
September, when releases from Lake Blue Ridge dam increase the flow of the
water on the Toccoa/Ocoee River (the Toccoa River becomes the Ocoee River
at the Tennessee State Line). Rafters, canoeists and kayakers all journey to
the center located in the Ocoee River Gorge to enjoy the whitewater.
In addition to whitewater sports, the center has a
one-mile hiking trail which crosses a 330 foot suspension bridge and
circles the center. The trail is entirely accessible for those who are
physically challenged. There are an additional 20 miles of trails for
hikers and mountain bikers, including the Bear Paw Trail and the Chestnut
Mountain Trail, both of which are loops. A recent addition, the Thunder
Rock Express, has received a lot of positive comments from bikers.
The Old Copper Road Historic Trail allows hikers
and bikers an easier paced adventure along the restored path that was used
to transport copper by wagon from Ducktown to Cleveland before the arrival
of the railroad from Blue Ridge.
Even if you don't want to play in the whitewater,
hike or bike, scenic U. S. Highway 64 through the gorge offers many
photographic opportunities and there are swimming holes, picnic areas, a
native garden, gift shop and much more.
Directions to The Ocoee Whitewater Center:
In Blue Ridge, take GA 5 north to McCaysville, then turn left on Tennessee
Highway 68. In Ducktown, take U. S. 64 west to the Ocoee Whitewater Center
on the left.
