Water rafting is an adrenaline rush causing event and one of the most thrilling recreational outdoor activities. This depends on how rough the water section is; hence, preparation is needed to ensure you get the best out of the event. It’s not only a great sport but also a fantastic way to bond with friends, family, colleagues at work, and any other fun-loving group.
One of the key tips is to choose a stretch on the water that matches your skills since some sections require a higher skill level. You also need to have some basic information about the sport, what to carry and wear, and safety tips in case of an occurrence. Below, we explore the preparation that you need for your white water rafting trip in Tennessee.
Safety Tips
One of the thrilling aspects of white water rafting Tennessee is the daring nature of the activity. Rafting on certain sections of the river is considered an extreme sport and may require you to have advanced skills. This means there are certain sections you may not be allowed access to.
You will be required to wear a life jacket and a helmet with fastened chin straps. This is mandatory, as it helps keep your head above water. If you wear glasses, you may consider having a retainer strap to keep them intact. You are also required to carry certain equipment such as floating devices and whistles.
Other safety tips include not being intoxicated during the event. You should also not attempt to stand up on a rocky river bed when there are strong currents.
Clothing Tips
Depending on the season, your choice of clothes differs. During summer, consider shorts, a t-shirt, or a bathing suit. During spring and fall, consider wearing fleece, wool, or polyester to keep you warm and insulated in case you get wet. Always carry high-quality sandals that provide support on rocky shores. If possible, the sandals should have strong straps and supportive backs since there are moments you will be getting off the boats. Avoid flip-flops as you can easily lose them.
Consider accessories such as a water bottle, sunscreen and a hat or sun visor during the hot months. A plastic bag will help you secure your items without getting wet. Always remember to carry an extra set of clothes that you will wear after the event
Choice of River for White Water Rafting Tennessee
You need to choose the river based on your overall experience, and this depends on how difficult it is to navigate. You may opt for Wilson Creek, Watauga River, and Nolichucky Rivers, among many others in the area. The river sections are divided into six classes. Class 1 is the easiest and meant for beginners, with class 6 being the most difficult and meant for experts only. This decision should put into consideration the skill set of members of the rafting team.
Always Book Early
After you have decided on where to have the adventure, ensure you book early enough. Ensure the guide is well trained and licensed to prioritize your overall wellbeing. If you are using a commercial company, you will be required to pay a fee. This mostly caters for the trip, equipment, and transportation.
Listen to the Guide
Before you embark on the trip, carefully listen to the guide’s orientation on the whole experience and what to expect. The guides are highly trained experts with adequate experience regarding the sport. If the whole team observes the rules and guidelines, the activity should go on with no eventualities. White water rafting is a relatively safe sport hence no cause for alarm.
The above tips will ensure you have a memorable experience during your white water rafting adventure. With safety, clothing, and other logistics such as choice of the river and early booking ticket, you only need to listen to your guide and enjoy the adventure.