If you’re gearing up for your first white water rafting adventure with Outland Expeditions, your journey begins long before you ever hit the water. Whether you’re traveling from nearby Chattanooga or making a special trip to experience rafting in Tennessee, your first stop is the Outland Expeditions basecamp. This is more than just a meeting spot—it’s the launchpad for everything to come.

You’ll be greeted by friendly staff who are seasoned river guides and trained in outdoor safety. They’ll help you check in, verify your reservation, and handle any necessary waivers. If you haven’t already completed a digital waiver ahead of time, you’ll fill one out on-site. This process ensures that everyone understands the risks and responsibilities that come with white water rafting.

It’s a good idea to arrive early—plan for at least 30–45 minutes ahead of your scheduled departure. This gives you time to check in, meet your guide, get fitted for gear, and prepare mentally for the river ahead.

Getting the Right Gear for the Rapids

One of the most important parts of any white water rafting trip is having the right gear. Outland Expeditions supplies everything you need, from personal flotation devices (PFDs) and helmets to paddles and optional wetsuits or splash jackets depending on the season and weather conditions. Your guide will make sure your gear fits properly and comfortably.

Footwear is a key detail many first-timers overlook. Flip-flops or loose sandals are not appropriate for rafting. You’ll need shoes that stay securely on your feet when wet—water shoes, secure sandals with straps, or even old sneakers work well.

Outland’s team will also offer tips on how to dress. Synthetic materials are best—think quick-dry athletic clothing or swimwear. Cotton holds water and will make you cold and uncomfortable during the trip, so it’s best to avoid it altogether.

Safety Comes First on Every River Trip

Once everyone is geared up, your group will gather for a detailed safety briefing. Safety is the foundation of every Outland Expeditions rafting experience, and the guides take this seriously while still keeping the mood light and welcoming.

Your guide will walk through the basics of rafting: how to hold and use your paddle correctly, how to position yourself in the raft, and what each paddling command means. You’ll also learn what to do in the unlikely event that someone falls out of the raft or the raft flips. These instructions may seem overwhelming at first, but they’re explained clearly and reinforced once you’re on the water.

If you’re new to rafting, you’ll appreciate how approachable and easygoing the guides are. They’re used to helping first-time rafters, nervous paddlers, and excited thrill-seekers alike. Their training includes swift water rescue certification, CPR, and first aid, and they know the river better than anyone.

Heading to the Put-In Point

With gear on and safety covered, it’s time to head to the river. Outland Expeditions provides shuttle service to the river’s entry point, known as the put-in. Depending on your chosen route and the river level, the shuttle ride may range from a few minutes to around half an hour, offering a scenic preview of the natural beauty you’re about to immerse yourself in.

On the way, your guide may share a few river facts, jokes, or stories about the region. Tennessee is home to some of the most scenic and exciting white water rafting in the Southeast, and learning about its ecology, geology, and local culture adds to the adventure.

When you arrive, the rafts are ready and waiting. You’ll help carry your raft to the edge of the water, then climb aboard with your assigned team. Your guide will give one final briefing on water entry procedures before pushing off into the river.

The Adventure Begins: Navigating the Rapids

As you drift into the current, your guide will start with basic commands and easy maneuvers so your team can find a rhythm. White water rafting is all about teamwork, timing, and trust. Even if you’re rafting with strangers, you’ll feel like a team by the time you face your first rapid.

Depending on the river section you’re on, you might encounter rapids ranging from Class I to Class IV. Each class offers a different level of excitement:

Class I and II rapids are gentle and beginner-friendly, perfect for families or those easing into the sport.
Class III rapids are moderate and include waves, small drops, and more maneuvering.
Class IV rapids are faster, more technical, and offer a high-adrenaline experience for those seeking an extra thrill.

Throughout your journey, your guide is constantly steering, issuing commands, and ensuring everyone is safe and having fun. The thrill of bouncing over waves, charging through narrow passages, and getting drenched by white water is matched only by the beauty of your surroundings. Towering cliffs, lush forest canopies, and wildlife like herons and hawks often make appearances along the way.

Building Bonds on the Water

One of the unexpected joys of a white water rafting trip is the camaraderie that naturally develops among paddlers. Sharing a raft means working together, laughing when you splash into a rapid, and celebrating when you navigate a challenging stretch of river.

These shared experiences turn strangers into teammates, and groups of friends or coworkers into tighter units. Many companies choose Outland Expeditions for team-building retreats because of how naturally rafting encourages communication and trust.

Even families find that rafting creates unique bonding moments—whether it’s a child’s first time in white water or parents rediscovering their adventurous sides. And for thrill-seekers, rafting provides the kind of adrenaline rush that sticks with you long after the trip ends.

Reaching the Take-Out and Wrapping Up

Eventually, the rapids ease and the calm stretch of river signals that your adventure is nearing its end. Your guide will navigate to the take-out point, where you’ll disembark and help carry the raft to the transport area.

Outland Expeditions will shuttle you back to basecamp, where you can change into dry clothes, grab a snack, and relax. It’s also the perfect time to share stories with your group, laugh about that unexpected splash, and reflect on the day.

Some trips may include access to professional photos captured during the ride. These images make great souvenirs and are a popular way to commemorate the day.

Preparing for Your Trip: Tips for a Smooth Experience

To make the most of your rafting day, preparation goes a long way. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Bring a change of clothes and a towel. You will get wet, and having something dry to wear afterward is a game-changer.

Use waterproof sunscreen and reapply before you launch. The combination of sun and water reflection can catch you off guard.

Stay hydrated. Even on a river, it’s important to drink water before and after your trip.

Listen to your guide. Their experience and instructions are what make your adventure safe and successful.

Why Choose Outland Expeditions?

With years of experience guiding white water rafting trips in Tennessee, Outland Expeditions has earned a reputation for safety, professionalism, and fun. Their guides are passionate about the river and skilled in delivering unforgettable experiences to every kind of rafter.

Whether you’re planning a solo outing, a group getaway, or an adventurous family vacation, Outland provides the right trip options for you. From scenic beginner runs to more technical stretches for thrill-seekers, there’s something for everyone.

The company also stands out for its commitment to preserving the natural environment and educating guests about the local river ecosystem. When you raft with Outland, you’re not just getting a ride—you’re participating in a tradition of respect for nature, adventure, and community.

Plan Your Next White Water Rafting Trip Today

Now that you know what to expect on a white water rafting trip—from arrival at basecamp to the thrill of crashing through rapids—it’s time to turn that curiosity into action. Rafting isn’t just a sport; it’s an experience that reconnects you with nature, tests your spirit, and offers memories you won’t forget.

Whether you’re a first-time rafter or a returning adrenaline junkie, Outland Expeditions has the gear, the guides, and the rivers ready to give you the ultimate outdoor experience.

Book your white water rafting trip with Outland Expeditions today and discover the thrill of Tennessee’s most exciting rivers.

Let the river challenge you, the guides lead you, and the adventure define you.

What to Expect on a White Water Rafting Trip: From Arrival to Rapids