Ocoee Whitewater Kayaking Courses
NOC’s Paddling School now offers whitewater kayak instruction on one of the most iconic rivers in the Southeast, the Ocoee River! Choose from one to multi- day courses to explore and learn to paddle this legendary river.
Overview
Whitewater kayaking instructional programs now available on the Ocoee River!
This classic Southeastern River is a must-do for any kayaker who is looking for continuous Class III whitewater, big waves, and lots of river features to play on. NOC’s renowned Paddling School offers single or multi-day workshops focused on river running, techniques, and more!
Participants must be able to competently navigate and have a reliable roll in Class II-III whitewater to participate in Ocoee Kayak Courses.
Ocoee Kayaking Programs
Gateway to the Ocoee Kayak Workshop
Explore the Ocoee River in confidence with the Gateway to the Ocoee. This program is perfect for paddlers who have a reliable combat roll, are proficient in Class II-III, and are ready to step up to the iconic Class III-IV Ocoee River. The full day workshop, led by NOC’s professional Paddling School instructors, provides the opportunity to learn and master the best access points, lines, and techniques for kayaking on the Ocoee River. With a focus on navigating continuous whitewater, big waves, and dynamic river features.
Course Content:
- Introduction to running continuous Class III water
- Learn techniques for scouting the river and selecting lines on Class III rapids
- Opportunity to practice river awareness and develop skills in a dynamic environment with support of experienced instructors.
Ocoee Intensive Weekend
Embark on a thrilling kayaking journey with our Ocoee Immersion Weekend program, designed to provide a comprehensive and immersive experience on the iconic Ocoee River. Join NOC’s 2-day program for intermediate to advanced paddlers seeking to enhance their skills and fully immerse themselves in the Ocoee River. Led by NOC’s professional Paddling School instructors, participants will have the opportunity to learn advanced river running techniques and explore the Ocoee River in depth through increased river time and practice.
Guests will also need to bring lunch and snacks for each day. We recommend packing food items in a dry bag to carry in your boat.
Course Content:
- Key emphasis on establishing familiarization and comfort on the Ocoee River
- More river time: With 2 full days on the water, participants will have ample time to learn the different lines, techniques, and access points on the Ocoee River.
- Opportunity to practice river awareness and develop skills in a dynamic environment with support of experienced instructors.
Ocoee Immersion Week
Enjoy a week of paddling the Ocoee without the crowds! Join NOC’s 4-day program for intermediate to advanced paddlers seeking to enhance their skills and fully immerse themselves in the Ocoee River. Led by NOC’s professional Paddling School instructors, participants will have the opportunity to learn advanced river running techniques and explore the Ocoee River in depth through increased river time and practice.
Guests will also need to bring lunch and snacks for each day. We recommend packing food items in a dry bag to carry in your boat.
Course Content:
- Key emphasis on establishing familiarization and comfort on the Ocoee River
- Learn the different lines, techniques, and access points of the river
- Down river playboating opportunities
- River awareness and development of skills in a dynamic environment with the support of experienced instructors.
Dates
Gateway to the Ocoee Kayak Workshop
| Dates | Location | |
|---|---|---|
| May 31-31, 2024 | Ocoee River, TN | |
| Jun 14-14, 2024 | Ocoee River, TN | |
| Jul 5-5, 2024 | Ocoee River, TN | |
| Jul 26-26, 2024 | Ocoee River, TN | |
| Aug 9-9, 2024 | Ocoee River, TN |
Ocoee Intensive Weekend
| Dates | Location | |
|---|---|---|
| May 11-12, 2024 | Ocoee River, TN | |
| Jun 15-16, 2024 | Ocoee River, TN | |
| Jul 6-7, 2024 | Ocoee River, TN | |
| Jul 20-21, 2024 | Ocoee River, TN | |
| Aug 10-11, 2024 | Ocoee River, TN | |
| Sep 14-15, 2024 | Ocoee River, TN | |
| Oct 12-13, 2024 | Ocoee River, TN |
Ocoee Immersion Week
| Dates | Location | |
|---|---|---|
| Sep 30-Oct 3, 2024 | Ocoee River, TN |
Location
Address
NOC Paddling School
51 NOC Way
Bryson City, NC 28713
Meeting Location will be sent out prior to course dates.
Ocoee River Put InBefore You Visit
- In-Course Transportation
- NOC’s Highly-Trained, ACA Certified Instruction
Participants will need to provide the individual gear outlined below.
Necessary Items
- Boat, Paddle, PFD, Sprayskirt, Helmet
- Shorts or Swimwear
- Water shoes or old sneakers
- Synthetic T-shirts
- Sunscreen/Lip balm
- Towel and Change of clothes
- Reusable water bottle
- Clothing and personal items
- Rain gear
- Lunch and Snacks
Optional Items
- Synthetic long underwear
- Nose clips
- Sunglasses and eyeglass strap
- Hat or visor
- Ear plugs
These courses are only for those with intermediate to advanced paddling skills. Prior to signing up for this course, participants must meet the following requirements:
- Be 18 Years of Age or Older
- Be able to competently navigate Class II-III whitewater
- Have a reliable roll in Class II-III whitewater
Participants will need to provide their own lunch, boats and gear to be comfortable in equipment they are used to. This is a full day spent on the river, and the participant should pack lunch and snacks accordingly. NOC recommends storing them in a dry bag on your boat.
Meet Our Instructors
The NOC Paddling School stands out because of its exceptional instructors, who are experienced, skilled paddlers, and creative teachers. Their expertise and dedication are why Outside Magazine named us the “Best Place to Learn”
Click here to view our full list of Paddling School Instructors
