This was my second visit to the Whitewater Center. We arrived about noon this past Saturday and it was already pretty busy. Parking was five dollars in their gravel parking lot. There was a short line to get tickets and a lady was coming around asking what activities we were planning on indulging in as there was a waiver to sign. We chose the all-sport pass. It was 52 or 54 dollars I believe and included all activities along with the white water rafting. We signed up for a 1:45 raft. We chose to put our belongings in a locker. You can also store your belongings in an open bin which is kept in an employee only area for 10 dollars, this option allows you to come and go as often as you please for one fee. The locker tokens are 2 dollars each. A token is necessary to remove the key from the locker each time you open it. So, each time you open your locker you must insert the two dollar token to get your key out after closing it back. I got two tokens, one for putting my belongings in the locker initially and the second for opening it later to change into dry clothes after rafting. I also brought a second pair of dry shoes to put on after rafting. Shoe rentals are 8 dollars each.
After we got settled we headed over to the rafting area five minutes prior to rafting as instructed. It was actually closer to 2pm before the instructions for rafting began. The guide talked very fast but was comical and to the point. I was able to grasp all the information but I don't think my friend's two children did. We got our equipment together and headed out with Casey. Casey was very helpful and friendly, cute too. He took us around a couple times on the lighter waves to let the kids and us get the hang of things, then he took us on to some adventure rafting a couple times. We had a great time. Wish we would have had more time and energy in the day for a second round. Also tipping is appreciated but not required. We tipped him 10 dollars.
After changing into something dry and reapplying sunscreen and now mosquito repellent, those blood sucking creatures love me, we went to zip line. Don't let the line fool you. The line wasn't very long and we figured it would be maybe half a hour wait. Wrong, try a hour and a half. I had never zip lined before so I waited eagerly for my turn. I was about dehydrated though before I got started. They should have a drink machine like Carowinds does in these lines. I think I overly anticipated the excitement involved in zip lining from watching too many Indiana Jones and jungle movies. In my opinion, it was comparable to riding the swings at the fair. But at least I gave it a try and can say I did it now. After zip ling 1200 feet across part of the rapids we walked back to return our equipment. I was now foaming at the mouth from thirst, lol. We headed over to the restaurant on-site for some enjoyable and much needed refreshments. That's another review...
I would like to go back again but earlier and during the week. So I could start rafting early and wind down the day kayaking down the Catawba River.