Ocoee Whitewater Center

This 1 mile, ADA accessible loop takes visitors around the Ocoee Whitewater Center. This is the stretch of river that hosted a portion of the 1996 Olympics. The Forest Service moved 60,000 tons of rock to reshape this 500 meter stretch of the Ocoee. Today it is often considered the best natural whitewater course in the world and remains a site for national and international competitions.

There is a large parking area here, although there is a $3 fee. Parking at the visitor center is free but limited to 30 minutes. The paved trail begins by crossing over the first of two commemorative Olympic bridges. Once on the far side of the river you’ll pass through a nice day use area with covered picnic areas. You’ll also find two trails - the Rhododendron Trail and Bear Paw Loop Trail - that take off near here and are a great option for those looking to extend their hike.

The paved loop trail then crosses over the second bridge and passes by the visitor center. Continuing on you’ll come to a small fire lookout tower. The trail then continues alongside the river until it arrives back at the lower bridge and completes the loop.