If you live in the Greater Birmingham-Hoover Alabama area, you may be surprised to know that one of the most exciting outdoor adventures in the south is just up the road. An easy 2 ½ to 3-hour drive from Birmingham, the Ocoee River and surrounding Cherokee National Forest make for a perfect day trip adventure or weekend getaway. With five miles of continuous class III and IV rapids, the Middle Ocoee has earned the river its title of “America’s Most Popular Whitewater River”. The Upper Ocoee has special draw too, having hosted the 1996 summer whitewater Olympics. Twenty-three professional outfitters along the Ocoee are ready to offer a thrilling whitewater ride that’s perfect for you and your group. Join the over 250,000 visitors that travel to the Ocoee River each year, and see for yourself what whitewater rafting fun is about!
Nicknamed “The Magic City” after its immense growth in the early 1900s, Birmingham has become a staple city of the south. With a rich history and downtown life, locals know that there is no better place for great “soul food” like biscuits, gravy and fried chicken, and plenty of live music to be found. Popular history attractions include the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, featuring the world’s largest collection of motorcycles, and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, a Smithsonian affiliate where visitors can learn about the history of the civil rights movement in Brimingham and beyond. With its variety of city and outdoor appeal, Birmingham is a place with a little of everything.
If you live in Birmingham or the surrounding area (including Bibb, Chilton, Shelby, Blount, Walker, St. Clair and Jefferson counties) you may be ready to take a break from the hustle and bustle and unplug in the beautiful outdoors. Taking a trip to the Ocoee River and stunning Cherokee National Forest is the perfect opportunity to recharge. Beyond the river, endless activities like hiking, fishing, canoeing, biking can be enjoyed all within the Ocoee area. Visitors may choose from plenty of cabin rental options by the beautiful Lake Ocoee, as well as campgrounds and RV parks nearby and enjoy all the area has to offer.