Chris Cretton

What is the best part of the job?

For some people, rafting may be one of the gnarliest things they do in life. It feels great to give someone that experience

Why do you think people should go on a rafting trip?

The Ocoee Gorge is such a beautiful part of the Southeast. Rafting through it is good for the soul.

What is a fun fact about you?

I did a picture perfect swan dive from 150-foot cliff into the Nile River. (I had a bungee chord attached to me.)

Why would I want you as a guide?

I always come back with every customer.

How long and Why/How did you start working at Ocoee Inn Rafting?

I have worked at Ocoee Inn since 2003. I had a buddy that started guiding on the Ocoee and thought I would enjoy it. He was right!

Otherwise known as/nickname.

Cretton

How did you get your nickname?

I was born with a father whose last name was Cretton

What are some crazy/adventurous things you’ve done?

I went on a 2,000 mile scooter/climbing adventure through China. I walked the Camino de Santiago, a 500 mile trek through France and Spain. I rafted the White Nile River in Uganda.

What do you love about Ocoee Inn Rafting?

The community. We have so many guides who have been here for over a decade, so it really feels like a family.

What makes you unique as a guide and why would I request you?

Been in the game for 16 years and I’m as cool as the other side of the pillow. Period.

Do you have anything to tell first-time rafters?

Thank you for making this decision, you will not regret it!!!!!

Where did you grow up? If not not locally, what brought you here?

Born and raised in Cleveland, Tn.

What does your off season look like?

Molding the minds of America’s youth for the past 13 years teaching World History.

What are your hobbies?

Climbing, hiking, camping, fly-fishing, running, and hanging with my awesome family – my wife Bonnie and my daughters Cora and Wren

What/Who inspires you?

My wife inspires me because she followed her dream of creating a school. (Woodsong Forest School)