Extreme Adventure and Adrenaline Junkies won’t want to miss two spring events happening in the 9 Lakes Region. Spring thaws and rains swell the rivers and tributaries leading to some world class paddling on the Obed Wild and Scenic River in Wartburg.   The label of wild and scenic is awarded by congressional designation. Obed’s 45 miles of free-flowing river, the unspoiled rugged terrain and 500 foot deep gorge canyon walls look much like when early frontiersmen explored the river in the 1700’s. The river’s rapids can ranging from class ll to class lV provide an exciting and challenging paddle adventure in early spring. Now in its 29^th year, the Week of Rivers hosted by Whitewater of the Southern Appalachians will be offering two weeks of trips. The week of 3/25 slots are sold out, but adventurers can register for openings the week of 4/1. Grey Gables Bed & Breakfast Inn in Historic Rugby will be the host lodging for the paddlers and provide morning and evening meals to the group.

Prefer terra firma? Just over the mountain in Oliver Springs, the mountain biking Downhill Southeast’s Gravity Race series will be held at Windrock Bike Park on May 12. Designed for a challenge, the extreme mountain bike park trails feature natural jumps, drops, and rocky terrain which are not for the novice rider. In addition to the bike park, Windrock’s original 300 plus miles of OHV trail offers a motorized experience for dirt bikers, ATVS, and 4-wheelers.. Prefer to challenge your driving skills? the Jeep Jamboree USA is hosting a 3 day event in April where crawling rocks, mud, and steep drops are all part of the fun.

Not seeking that level of adrenalin rush, but still want a great adventure? Get vertical at Obed on one of the outcropping climbs. Obed offers 300 plus climbing routes ranging from easy to difficult. In additional to traditional climbing, the park offers approximately 350 “sport” or permanently-bolted routes. These sport routes vary in difficulty from 5.7 to 5.14.

Or challenge your endurance on one of Windrock’s more moderate Hawg or Midway trails and test your gravity skills. At every turn, climb, and descent, you are in total focus of your mind, bike, and body, leaving a rush of endorphins as you complete the trail.    Bicycles and helmets are available for rent onsite

Two sides of a mountain, two thrilling events to be experienced in the 9 Lakes Region. Because Great Adventures begin in Great Places!