Whitewater Rafting the Full Ocoee River with Outland Expeditions
If you're anywhere near East Tennessee this summer- whether you're local to the Chattanooga area or road-tripping in from Nashville or Atlanta- whitewater rafting the Ocoee River should seriously be on your list. It's high-energy, wildly scenic, and a perfect excuse to get your crew together for the kind of outdoor adventure you’ll all be talking about for years.
We recently rafted the full Ocoee (including the Olympic section!) with Outland Expeditions, and it was easily one of the most fun things we’ve done this season. Adrenaline rushes, mountain views, refreshing swim breaks, and a surprisingly good riverside BBQ lunch—there honestly wasn’t a single part of the day we didn’t enjoy.
The Experience
Outland Expeditions has been family-owned and operating since 1981, which shows in how smoothly everything runs and how friendly the staff is. From the moment you arrive at their Benton outpost, you’re greeted by guides who clearly love what they do.
The full Ocoee River trip is a 10-mile guided run that includes both the Upper and Middle sections of the river. The Upper features the Olympic whitewater course used in the 1996 Atlanta Summer Games- yes, it's the real deal. Expect Class III and IV rapids that keep things thrilling but totally doable for first-timers willing to paddle a bit. It's intense in the best way, with enough breaks for swimming and catching your breath between the splashes.
Our guide, Kyle- who’s been leading trips for 13 years- was a total pro and made sure we felt safe and had a blast the entire time. Every boat gets its own guide, so don’t worry about having to figure it all out on your own.
Midway through the full trip, you break for lunch, and we were honestly impressed. Blue Hole BBQ caters the meal, and it hits the spot after a few hours on the river. Pulled pork, sides, and lemonade/sweet tea helped recharge us for the second leg of the trip.
The atmosphere overall? Laid-back, high-energy, and welcoming, whether you're showing up with a group of teens, your adventurous partner, a bachelorette trip (what we did!) or your college buddy crew reuniting for a weekend.
What to Know Before You Go
Location: Outland Expeditions is located in Benton, TN- about 40 minutes northeast of Chattanooga. It’s a pretty drive along the Ocoee Scenic Byway.
Trip Options:
- Middle Section: 5 miles, $35–$46 (a great place to start if you’re new to rafting)
- Upper Olympic Section: 5 miles, $50–$58
- Full Ocoee Combo Trip (Upper + Middle): 10 miles + BBQ lunch, $81–$95
All trips include a guide and necessary gear (helmet, paddle, and life jacket). You’ll need to bring a swimsuit, secure footwear (no flip-flops), and a dry change of clothes for afterward.
Group Discounts: Extra savings kick in for groups of 11 or more. A great reason to plan that big reunion or team outing.
Booking: Reserve online at www.outlandexpeditions.com and use the code “WEBBCHATTS” for 10% off.
Minimum Age: Participants must be at least 12 years old to raft the Ocoee.
Season: Trips run Memorial Day through mid-October on weekends, with expanded weekday availability in summer.
Parking: Free and available on-site.
Extra Tips or Bonuses
- Outland has budget-friendly group cabins that sleep up to 150 people. Ideal if you’re planning a big family reunion, youth group trip, or bachelor(ette) weekend.
- Pack a towel and an extra trash bag to store wet clothes post-trip.
- They have super cute hats in their giftshop! My sister and I each got one and love them haha
- Photo packages are available if you want to relive your rafting faces later- they’re taken by a pro setup along the river.
- Plan a weekend trip around rafting with nearby hikes, waterfalls, or a visit to Parksville Lake!
Final Thoughts
Whitewater rafting the Ocoee River with Outland Expeditions is hands-down one of the best ways to get outside and make memories this summer. The Full Ocoee Combo Trip is a full-day adventure that doesn’t just deliver on thrills- it’s also well-run, scenic, and genuinely fun from start to finish. Between the experienced guides, Olympic-level rapids, and that delicious BBQ lunch, it’s the kind of back-to-nature experience that locals and visitors alike will love.
Whether you’ve rafted before or are looking to try it for the first time, this East Tennessee classic is one of those “must-dos” that lives up to the hype. And hey- don’t forget that 10% off code while you're at it!!
For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!
Why Whitewater Rafting the Full Ocoee River Needs to Be on Your Summer Adventure List in East Tennessee
Suggested Blogs
Niedlov’s Is Always on My List for Brunch, Coffee, and Pizza in Chattanooga
Where to Brunch in Chattanooga: Niedlov’s on Main
If you're looking for a go-to spot in Chattanooga for brunch, coffee, or a laid-back bite with friends, Niedlov’s Breadworks is a name that comes up time and time again—and for good reason. Known for its artisan bread, cozy atmosphere, and fresh, thoughtfully-prepared menu, Niedlov’s strikes that perfect balance between casual and quality. Whether you're a visiting foodie or a local who hasn't explored much beyond the basics, this Main Street staple is well worth a visit.
The Experience
Niedlov’s is located in Chattanooga’s Southside historic district, right on E Main Street, and brings a warm community feel with an always-buzzing vibe. This isn’t a grab-and-go coffee shop (though you can do that too)—you’ll want to stay awhile. With natural light pouring through large windows, exposed brick, and the comforting smell of fresh-baked bread, it’s a place designed for lingering over a pastry or catching up with a friend over brunch.
Known primarily for their bread—baked daily using traditional European methods—Niedlov’s has also built a reputation for seasonal specials and solid breakfast + lunch offerings. Their Avocado Toast is a long-time favorite, served with a soft-boiled egg on rye and topped with pickled onions and a house-made seed mix. Other standouts include their breakfast sandwich featuring house focaccia and the roasted chicken salad sandwich.
And don’t skip over the pizza. If you’ve only been in the morning, Niedlov’s has extended hours on Fridays for their Pizza Night menu, which features naturally fermented crusts and creative toppings. It’s a relaxed, BYOB kind of vibe—perfect for ending the week with a low-key dinner on the Southside.
What to Know Before You Go
Address:
215 E Main St, Chattanooga, TN 37408
Hours:
Monday–Thursday: 7 AM–6 PM
Friday: 7 AM–9 PM (Pizza Night starts in the evening)
Saturday: 7 AM–4 PM
Sunday: Closed
Parking:
There’s limited street parking along E Main, plus additional spots behind the building and in nearby public lots. It’s also walkable from other Southside spots, so it pairs easily with a market visit or stroll through Sculpture Fields.
Website:
https://www.niedlovs.com/
Menu and Ordering:
They do take online orders, which is great if you’re in a hurry. Indoor and outdoor seating is available, but Saturdays usually fill up fast—expect a short wait during brunch hours.
Extra Tips or Bonuses
- Pizza Fridays are BYOB and run until 9 PM. Grab a bottle of wine or some local beer to enjoy with your meal!
- Interested in sourdough baking? Niedlov’s occasionally offers workshops and classes—sign up for their email list to stay in the loop.
- The pastries rotate often, so keep an eye out for limited-run favorites like the Kouign-Amann or cardamom buns.
- Nearby stroll: After brunch, walk a few blocks to the Sculpture Fields at Montague Park or swing over to Velo Coffee for a bag of beans to take home.
Final Thoughts
Niedlov’s is the kind of place you end up recommending to people again and again. It’s consistent, welcoming, and local to its core—just one of those spots that makes Chattanooga feel like home. Great for travelers starting their Southside exploration with a hearty breakfast, or locals catching up over coffee and toast. If you haven’t been yet, now’s the time to see what all the quiet hype is about.
For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!
Exploring the Scenic Tennessee Riverwalk in Chattanooga: My Go-To Walk Spot!
My Go-To Walking/Running Spot: The Tennessee Riverwalk!
If you're looking for a simple way to reset your brain, get your steps in, or enjoy the fresh air without leaving town, the Tennessee Riverwalk is one of the best places in Chattanooga to do it. Whether you're logging miles on a morning run, going for a weekend stroll with your dog, or just needing a break from screen time, this 13-mile greenway offers some of the prettiest and most peaceful river views in the city. It’s one of those spots locals return to again and again — not just for the beauty, but for how easy and accessible it is. Especially right now with the Walnut Street Bridge closed, the Riverwalk is a great place to walk for Chattanooga views!
The Experience
The Tennessee Riverwalk is a paved, multi-use trail that stretches roughly 13 miles along the Tennessee River, connecting downtown Chattanooga to the Chickamauga Dam. As you move along the path, you’ll pass through a mix of parks, boardwalks over the water, marshy wildlife viewing areas, quiet neighborhoods, and bustling parts of town like the Bluff View Art District and the Riverfront.
You’ll see joggers and cyclists, people walking their dogs, families riding bikes together, and folks just quietly enjoying a walk by the water. The trail is very well maintained, with restrooms, water fountains, and signage throughout — each half mile is marked so you can keep track of your distance.
One of our favorite stretches is the section near 2101 Amnicola Hwy. This part of the trail includes wide, open views of the river, plenty of shade from the trees, and close proximity to spots like the Chattanooga Area Food Bank and the Tennessee Riverpark, which has picnic areas and parking. It’s a good entry point if you're driving in, and usually less crowded than the downtown sections.
What to Know Before You Go
Trail Length: About 13 miles one way
Accessible From: Chickamauga Dam (north end) to Ross’s Landing downtown (south end)
Trail Type: Paved, flat, mostly shaded in parts
Parking: Dozens of access points with parking lots. Popular spots include:
- 2101 Amnicola Hwy (my go-to spot! Though it is a little hard to turn left out of if you're going during peak traffic hours)
- TN Riverpark (4301 Amnicola Hwy)
- Ross’s Landing (201 Riverfront Pkwy)
- Battery Place near Bluff View Art District
Pet Friendly: Yes — there are dog waste stations and trash cans throughout
Restrooms: Available at various trailheads and park areas
Accessibility: The trail is accessible for wheelchairs, bikes, and strollers
Hours: Open daily from dawn to dusk
Admission: Free
Extra Tips or Bonuses
- If you want to pair your walk with a bite to eat, stop at the nearby Boathouse Rotisserie & Raw Bar (just off Amnicola Highway) for riverfront dining. Or, head downtown for coffee from Rembrandt’s and stroll the art-lined part of the trail near the Bluff View Art District.
- Into biking? You can rent bikes or e-bikes downtown via Bike Chattanooga stations and hop right onto the trail.
- This is a great place for a beginner-friendly run or training walk — the wide, flat path makes it a favorite for local running groups.
- Looking for a pretty spot for photos? The boardwalks over the water (especially near the Walnut Street Bridge and at Blue Goose Hollow) are especially scenic.
- During spring and early fall, this trail is perfect for a sun-soaked walk without overcrowding.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re local or just visiting for the weekend, the Tennessee Riverwalk is one of those places that makes you appreciate how much green space Chattanooga offers without needing to drive out of town. It’s peaceful, well-kept, and flexible for however you want to enjoy it — a long solo run, a quiet morning walk, a bike ride with friends, or a sunset view with your dog.
If you’re from out of town, it’s an easy way to explore some of Chattanooga’s most scenic neighborhoods and riverfront areas. And if you’re local, you probably already know it’s a go-to spot for decompressing at the end of the day.
For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!
Nacho Libre Taqueria: Tacos, Masks, and Margs
Nacho Libre in Ooltewah: Playful Vibes, Authentic Flavors, and Top-Notch Tacos Just Outside Chattanooga
If you’re the kind of diner who loves a little personality with your meal, Nacho Libre in Ooltewah should be at the top of your list. Just a short 15-minute drive from Chattanooga, this locally-owned Mexican spot brings the energy of lucha libre wrestling into a fun setting filled with vibrant murals, fresh flavors, and a menu that surprises in the best way. Whether you're a taco regular, margarita enthusiast, or just curious to try something new, Nacho Libre strikes a balance between bold theming and genuinely good food.
The Experience
From the moment you pull up to Nacho Libre on Apison Pike, you can tell this place isn’t trying to blend in. Inside, the walls pop with character thanks to original artwork-including a colorful vinyl mural created by an Ecuadorian artist—and a display of replica lucha libre wrestling masks that immediately sets the tone. It’s playful, but not gimmicky, making it a hit for date night, group dinners, or even a casual solo outing.
Though newly opened in September 2024, the restaurant already feels welcoming and lived-in, thanks to the warmth of its owners and staff. It's owned by a local couple who wanted to create an experience that feels more like Mexico and less like a run-of-the-mill Tex-Mex chain.
Now, onto the food. The tacos are a standout-they come out fresh, vibrant, and full of texture. The shrimp tacos in particular hit that perfect balance of grilled flavor and freshness, but their mix-and-match menu means you can sample several different fillings without overcommitting. Salsas are made fresh daily, and that care in prep shows in every bite.
On the drinks side, expect house-squeezed lime juice, made-daily guava syrup, and fun cocktails named after famous wrestlers. We tried the Ric Flair and El Santo—both flavorful, balanced, and perfect for pairing with the salty, spicy goodness of taco night.
What to Know Before You Go
Location:Nacho Libre
8206 Apison Pike
Ooltewah, TN 37363
Hours:
11am- 8pm tuesday-Friday
12pm- 8pm weekends
CLOSE Monday
Parking:
Free lot parking is available in front of the restaurant, usually easy to find a spot without much trouble.
Pricing:
Tacos are affordably priced, especially during specials. Most entrées and drinks seem to hover in the casual dinner range—perfect for a night out without breaking the bank.
No reservation is typically needed, and right now it's flying under the radar so waits are minimal.
Deals to Keep in Mind
Nacho Libre keeps the weekly promotions rolling with themed food and drink specials:
- Taco Tuesday: Mix & match tacos for $3.50 each
- Margarita Wednesday: $7 margaritas
- Daily Happy Hour: $7 margaritas + $3 beers
- Thursday Special: Tortas + fountain drink for $10.99
These offers make it especially worth visiting mid-week, and they rotate in some seasonal or holiday specials as well throughout the year.
Extra Tips and Bonuses
If you're someone who likes a meal with a photo-friendly vibe, this place checks the boxes. The mural art, colorful plating, and wrestler-themed décor make it a great spot to snap a few pics.
Visiting for a birthday or group dinner? Let the staff know—they're great about adding a little flair to the experience.
Make it a night out by pairing your meal with a nearby stop—try Wired Coffee Bar or 1885 Grill in nearby Cambridge Square for a stroll or post-dinner espresso.
Final Thoughts
Nacho Libre in Ooltewah is the kind of place you tell your friends about the next day—not because it’s flashy, but because it’s fun, refreshingly different, and delivering food that stands on its own. Whether you’re local to Chattanooga or just exploring restaurants around the area, it’s a great pick for all kinds of diners: families, date nights, or anyone out to enjoy tacos and a drink in a laid-back, memorable setting.
For more Chattanooga tips, follow @webbchatts on Instagram!