DAN NENNSTIEL, CHEROKEE RAFTING

How long have you been a raft guide? Two years.

What led you to become a raft guide? I am a retired schoolteacher/administrator, and my wife and I have always enjoyed the Ocoee area. We always took trips on the Ocoee as guests while on vacation, and being able to learn the river as well as the professionals was a desire of mine.

Tell us about the training process. The training process comprised of completing 20 river runs with guide trainers and learning the various rapids. Once we became proficient in the skills necessary, we were able to do a checkout trip. It takes an adventurous spirit, love of being on the water, and the willingness to take responsibility for the safety of others while making it a fun and memorable experience.

What do you love about whitewater rafting? The excitement and adrenaline that the river experience provides.

What’s special about rafting the Ocoee? The Ocoee is one of the most beautiful and scenic rivers that provides a continuous class III and IV rapid experience.

What’s your favorite rapid? Tablesaw and Diamond Splitter – it has speed, splash, and looks a lot more intimidating than it really is. The huge granite face of the mountain with the flume above it makes me pause and take it in every time.

Tell us a memorable story from the river. Last year on media day, I was doing a training run on the upper portion with the owner and manager in the raft. When we approached the Olympic section, the rapid Godzilla ate us up due to the lack of weight in the boat. I was the only one left in the boat, and I rode out a pretty radical surf alone for all of the media to see and capture.

What advice would you give a first-time rafter? Keep learning. The river community out here is very supportive. Someone is always looking to help or give some advice. We all have each other’s backs.

Anything else you’d like to add? I am so grateful each day that God has provided the opportunity for me to live out a dream in such a neat place. The river is awesome, the views are spectacular, and the people I get to work with every day are like family.