Get ready to get wet and wild with some of the best white water rafting around Gatlinburg, Tennessee! Here is a Gatlinburg Vacation guide to help you plan your adventure.
Just a short drive from downtown, you can find several companies offering half-day and full-day excursions on the rapids of the Pigeon River. And no matter your skill level, there’s a trip perfect for you and your group.
If you are looking for an exciting way to spend a day in Gatlinburg, look no further than white water rafting! This thrilling activity is perfect for those who love a good adrenaline rush.
Where To Stay In Gatlinburg, TN?
Embark on a new adventure in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and immerse yourself in the unparalleled beauty of the Smoky Mountains with a stay at Bear’s Wilderness Lodge, exclusively offered by GSM Family Vacations.
Nestled amidst the serene wilderness, this charming cabin offers a refreshing escape from the ordinary, inviting you to discover the true essence of mountain living.
How Much Does It Cost To Go White Water Rafting In Gatlinburg?
The cost of white water rafting in Gatlinburg can vary depending on the company you choose and the package you select. However, most companies charge anywhere between $35 and $60 per person for a half-day trip.
For a full-day trip, the cost is usually between $70 and $90 per person. Prices may be higher on weekends and during peak season. Discounts are often available for groups of 10 or more people.
White Water Rafting Around Gatlinburg Tennessee
Looking for some thrill in the Smokies? Try white water rafting around Gatlinburg, Tennessee!
Smoky Mountain Outdoors is one of the best places to go for an exciting water adventure in the Smokies. They are located in Hartford, TN, and are just 45 minutes away from Gatlinburg.
For thrill-seekers, go for the Upper River Trip – a 6.5-mile ride featuring class 3 and 4 rapids. Or, if you're looking for an even more extreme ride, try EXTREME upper river rafting where you'll hit bigger waves and more intense rapids in a smaller boat.
For a more relaxing trip, try the Lower River Trip – 5.5 mile trip through the scenic Pigeon Forge River.
Rafting in the Smokies offers two different types of rafting trips, as well as zip canopy tours and rope courses.
You will be accompanied by certified guides to ensure your safety while you enjoy the 12 Class III and 3 Class IV white water rapids on the 5.5 miles long upper section of Pigeon River.
They also offer Lower Pigeon River scenic family float trips featuring Class I and Class II rapids.
If you're looking for a heart-pumping adventure or a leisurely float down the river, River Rat is perfect for you! For those who just want to relax, they have the Lower Pigeon Rafting Adventure, which features gentle rapids and swimming holes and is safe for riders 3 years old and up.
If you're looking for thrills, their extreme Upper Pigeon Adventure is the perfect choice. You'll raft 5 miles down the scenic river in a smaller raft, hitting extreme rapids all the way. Plus, every ride is fully guided by a certified guide.
Big Bear Whitewater Rafting offers Smokies visitors unforgettable white water rafting experiences April through September. And their professional and certified guides will make sure you have a safe and memorable trip.
Big Bear offers families Lower Pigeon River trips with Class I and II rapids for a laid-back time on the water. In contrast, Upper Pigeon River trips features steep granite cliffs,Class III and IV rapids, and stunning views. Trip & safety talks occur upon arrival at Hartford outpost along with an introduction to your guide.
If you're looking for an exciting time rafting in the Smokies, look no further than Rip Roaring Adventures! They have been offering world-class white water rafting experiences for over 20 years and have something to fit everyone's needs.
Whether you're looking for a family-friendly ride or a thrilling trip on the rapids, they got you covered! Join this Smoky Mountain adventure, which is open to all ages 8 and up!
Specializing in heart-pounding whitewater rafting trips, this renowned outfitter promises an unforgettable journey through the rugged beauty of the Smoky Mountains.
Big Creek Expeditions boasts a team of experienced guides who are not only experts in navigating the rapids but also passionate about sharing their love for the outdoors.
As one of the premier outfitters in the region, NOC boasts a legacy of excellence in outdoor recreation, drawing thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts from far and wide.
The Upper Pigeon offers an exhilarating experience with Class III rapids and stunning Smoky Mountain views. Families with children aged three and above can opt for the Lower Pigeon, a leisurely float trip featuring mild rapids, inviting swimming holes, and picturesque landscapes.
White Water Rafting Gatlinburg Season
White water rafting in the Smoky Mountains usually starts from late February to early November and takes place on the Pigeon River. The water level of the Pigeon River is regulated by a dam and hence the rafting operators schedule their trips based on the summer (from Memorial Day to Labor Day) when the water flow is consistent.
The availability of white water rafting trips in spring and fall (outside of the scheduled water release days) depends on the local rainfall. Scheduled trips during this time are subject to cancellation or rescheduling based on the water levels of the river.
Smoky Mountains 7-Day Itinerary
I understand how difficult it can be to plan a trip, especially if it’s your first time going. That’s why I created this 7-day itinerary for the Smoky Mountains. It outlines all of the best places to go in the area and comes with insider tips that will save you a lot of stress–trust me, they saved me when I was planning my own trip!
- Our 7-day itinerary takes you to the best places in the Smoky Mountains.
- You’ll get to see all the best sights and attractions with driving directions
- The itinerary is designed to show you the most scenic routes.
- Packing Checklist for every season.
- You’ll have everything you need to make the most of your trip.
- Insider Tips!
Here’s a quick overview of our Smoky Mountains 7-Day Itinerary.
- Day 1: Cades Cove Loop
- Day 2: Rich Mountain Road
- Day 3: Cataloochee Valley
- Day 4: Newfound Gap Road
- Day 5: Roaring Fork Motor Trail
- Day 6: Little River Road
- Day6: Foothills Parkway
Download Our FREE Smoky Mountains Checklist Now!
Recommended Gatlinburg Vacation Resources
- Smoky Mountains Vacation Guide
- Pigeon Forge Vacation Guide
- Fun Things to Do in Gatlinburg in March
- Great Smoky Mountains Family Vacations Facebook Group
MORE RELATED RESOURCES
Planning to go on a summer vacation in Gatlinburg? Aside from white water rafting, there are plenty of exciting Things To Do in Gatlinburg in Summer so make sure you don’t miss it.
You can also, head to the Great Smoky Mountains National park and try this national park photo scavenger hunt idea from PhotoJeepers.
