So you’ve been on the water for most of the day and as you take your first steps back on dry land you start to ponder what you will do for the rest of the day. It can be tricky to figure out what to do next, whether you are keen for more action or you simply fancy chilling out. Here are some ideas to help you decide your next move.

Recuperate

Rafting is often demanding on the body, especially if you are not a regular to the sport. It has a habit of making you aware of muscles you never knew you had. With this in mind, we recommend doing a series of exercises that will help relax those aching limbs. Doing some shoulder circles and chest openers really helps to cool down the muscles in your upper body that have been working so hard all day on the water. Simply getting the right amount of rest while making sure you hydrate and refuel yourself is also vital so that you are ready to go again the next day whether that is another day of rafting or a different fun outdoor activity.

Eat

As well as making sure your muscles are taken care of, your body will need refuelling after a strenuous workout on the water. Remember to bring plenty of snacks to keep yourself going during the day, but afterwards, it’s a good idea to make a more substantial meal to replenish those much needed calories and minerals in your system. Many rafters and campers like to prepare meals beforehand and simply warm them up on the camping stove later while others will bring raw ingredients with them and cook on site.  We recommend food high in protein as your body needs the energy. Whatever option you choose, make sure you invest in a high-quality cooler to keep your perishable goods last longer. Remember to drink plenty of water too, especially in the warmer months of the year where you can easily become dehydrated. If you would prefer to eat in an indoor setting then check out the many restaurants in the area – you can find a wide variety of styles.

Enjoy Camplife

Many people who enjoy activities such as rafting will also be very keen campers. After a day on the river, many of us just love the feeling of being outdoors and want to continue the experience while they unwind. If you bring the right equipment then camping is a great way of enjoying your downtime with friends and family after an exhilarating time on the rapids. So sit back, relax and get the marshmallows going over an open flame and enjoy camplife without the noise and nuisances of your normal routine.

Explore Downtown

Once you feel refreshed and re-energized, it might be time to head into town and explore your local surroundings. If you have spent a day rafting with us then you’ll find plenty to do in Chattanooga. There are many activities to do downtown from exploring the green spaces to going into shops, museums and theaters while you can also find a zoo and an aquarium just a mile or two from the center.

Hike Or Bike

If you have perhaps spent only half a day rafting, you may still have the time and energy to do more fun outdoor activities. So why not consider going on a mountain bike ride or simply a hike and exploring the area further. Chattanooga has some of the best hiking trails in the country with over 50 of them within a 30-minute drive of the downtown.

Whatever post-rafting route you decide to take, just make sure it is the right one for you and your friends and family.