All You Need to Know About White Water Rafting in the Smoky Mountains
If you are looking for an exciting and unique adventure during your Smoky Mountain camping trip, check out a white water rafting excursion at Smoky Mountain Outdoors! This is the perfect way to experience the thrills of white water rapids while enjoying the scenic outdoor beauty of the Smokies. Here is everything you need to know about experiencing the thrill of white water rafting in the Smoky Mountains:
Will I have a guide?
Yes! Smoky Mountain Outdoors is the most trusted outfitter in the Smokies with an excellent safety record. They also provide one of the top activities on the Pigeon River! All of their white water rafting trips are fully guided, so you’ll be prepared on what to expect, so you can focus on what’s most important– having fun!
What types of trips do they offer?
You can choose from several excursions at Smoky Mountain Outdoors, including the Upper Pigeon River Rafting Trip that takes you on a 6.5-mile trip through class 3 and 4 rapids! If you really want to experience a white-knuckle adventure, sign up for the Extreme Upper River Rafting Trip that features smaller boats and more rapids! If you prefer a gentle white water rafting trip that the entire family can enjoy, check out the Lower Pigeon River Rafting Trip for a relaxing ride down the river. They also offer a Lower & Upper River combo package– the best of both worlds for the best value!
When is the best time to go white water rafting?
The white water rafting season begins in March and typically lasts through October, with peak season running from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend. Smoky Mountain Outdoors typically runs trips on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday, as well as some Sundays on holiday weekends.
Are there age or weight restrictions?
White water rafting in the Smoky Mountains is a fun activity for nearly all age groups, and there are very few restrictions, so almost everyone can enjoy a trip with Smoky Mountain Outdoors! The minimum age for the Upper Pigeon River trip is 8 years old, and guests must weigh at least 70 pounds. However, children 3 years and older can go on the Lower Pigeon River trip. For the Extreme Upper River Trip, you must be at least 12 years old. If you are concerned that you might be a bit overweight, you will be delighted to know that there is no upper limit weight requirement, as all of the lifejackets can accommodate a chest girth of 54 inches. It is also not necessary to know how to swim for the Upper and Lower Trips, as every guest is issued a Coast Guard-approved flotation device; however, it is required for the Extreme Trip.
What is the weather policy?
While the rain may have spoiled your hiking plans or other outdoor activities, white water rafting is actually one of the best activities to enjoy on a rainy day in the Smokies! After all, getting wet is part of the fun, and all Smoky Mountain Outdoors excursions take place rain or shine. While trips may be held for a few minutes while a strong storm passes the area, there are very few times when raft trips are canceled due to inclement weather.
White water rafting in the Smoky Mountains is the best activity for thrill seekers and families alike! Want more recommendations of fun things to do? Take a look at more family-friendly outdoor activities in the Smokies!
