Vacation in late September - ww raft trip

[nike54_la]

Hey everyone -

I figured y'all could help me out with a question. My boyfriend and I are wanting to go whitewater rafting (commercial with a guide) but I can't take a vaca until the end of September. Anywhere in the US where it'll be warm enough to do a rafting trip that time of the year? Thanks ahead of time.

[Cowper]

http://www.tva.gov/river/recreation/sched_ocoee2.htm" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Ocoee River; crowd will be down; weather getting cooler but still very comfortable. Located about 45 minutes east of Chattanooga. Multiple commercial rafting outfitters.

EDIT TO ADD: I'm hoping some of our members who have been raft guides will log in with recommendations for which companies are the best. Different companies and different guides have "personalities" - some may focus more on safety, others more on "fun", which could mean running you through the biggest hydraulics, so maximizing your experience includes choosing the right guide and company for the type of experience you want to have (and talking to your guide). Also, while I know tipping is much appreciated, I don't have a good feel for what would be considered as an "average" or "good" tip.

[nike54_la]

Thanks for the suggestion. We are thinking along the lines of the Ocoee b/c we want to go on a cruise, which we could depart from Alabama. Anyone have any opinions on guided raft trips down the Ocoee? We are looking to drive there and then to the cruise port, which is why we aren't looking in Georgia or SC and then to Florida...thats a lot of driving in 11 days. :)

Any input is appricated...even if it's what guide services to stay away from. Thanks.

[Lifejacket]

OAR

http://www.raft.com

[Stephanie]

My brother is a guide on the Ocoee and the Cheoah (if you really want ww).

He is with Outland Expeditions - outlandexpeditions.com
Excellent guide and you will have a great time.

If you would like to contact me for any further info - my email is obx41@yahoo.com

steph

[Chris Summerville]

NOC

http://www.noc.com" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Hello. I am a guide/river manager for NOC. Let me know and I can give you the names of some really experienced guides that you could request, and if you're really unlucky you might even get stuck with me. I have been known to frequent the Ocoee that time of year.(the crowds are gone) We also run trips on several other rivers in the area during the fall season. Also, I'm not sure of your experience level but the Gauley is also running in West Virginia that time of year. NARR and Class VI are both good companies to go with in that part of the world. The New river is also close to there and can have good water in late September.

If you need any more information you can contact me at Pigeon@noc.com.