Kent Holmes

What is the best part of the job?

The best part of the job is meeting new people from all over and getting to show them the beauty and fun the Ocoee River has to offer!

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

People should come to get away from the monotony of daily life and experience the exhilarating world class whitewater. Here there isn’t any Zoom meetings, or business calls, or even much cell service. Leave all that behind and enjoy what this gorgeous nature has to offer.

What is a fun fact about you?

I had only been rafting on the Ocoee once before my first day of guide training.

Why would I want you as a guide?

You would want me as your guide for my experience but you will love the river and want to return for my hilarious personality and ridiculous antics.

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

I started in the spring of 1997. This summer will be my 27th year on the Ocoee. My sister worked in the restaurant that we used to have above the outpost. She suggested that I become a guide because I loved the outdoors so much. I started training the fall of my freshman year in college and have never looked back.

Otherwise known as/nickname

I don’t really have a nickname, but I do write K2 on all of my gear and my raft. I am named after my dad and I wanted a way to distinguish myself.

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

I have rafted 225 miles of the Grand Canyon, kayaked over 25′ waterfalls, seen the Northern Lights from Iceland, swam with sharks, and mountain biked alongside of a bear cub.

What do you love about Ocoee Inn Rafting?

I love the people I work with at Ocoee Inn. The other guides and the rest of the staff is more like a family to me than co-workers. We all have the same goals, have a good time and make sure our guests do as well.

Do you have anything to tell first-time rafters?

I would tell first time rafters that your experience is all about the guide. Our top five guides have more years and trips down the Ocoee than some other rafting companies’ entire staff! With that being said, come knowing that we can tailor the trip to give you the most exciting time without compromising safety. We want you to want to come back, but that doesn’t mean it won’t get exciting!

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

I am a local, born and raised.

What does your off season look like?

I am a full-time firefighter for the city of Cleveland Tn. I have been in the fire service for the past 18 years. When I am not at the firehall, I am either rafting, working construction, whitewater kayaking, running, or traveling with my wife and step-daughter to some other country in search of adventure and a good story!

What/Who inspires you?

I am inspired by people who work hard, chase their dreams, and never compromise their desire to make the best of every day!