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White water rafting down river

What to Wear When White Water Rafting in the Smoky Mountains

November 11, 2024

White water rafting in the Smoky Mountains combines the thrills of an amusement park ride with the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountain area. As you plan your visit to Smoky Mountain Outdoors, be sure to pay special attention to what you will wear. Choosing the wrong clothing can put a serious damper on your white water rafting adventure. To help you make the right clothing decisions, we have provided some fashion advice for your next trip down the Pigeon River.
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Baby Bear

3 of the Most Common Animals in the Smoky Mountains to Spot

November 9, 2024

If you’re hoping to see some wildlife during your visit to the Smoky Mountains, there is a good chance you may get lucky! The Smokies are a sanctuary for a wide assortment of animals, including about 65 species of mammals, more than 200 varieties of birds, and over 80 types of reptiles and amphibians! While some of the wildlife may be difficult to find while exploring the area, there are other animals that are frequently seen! Here are 3 of the most common animals in the Smoky Mountains to spot: Read More

Winterfest in Gatlinburg

Walking in a Winter Wonderland: 4 Ways to Enjoy Smoky Mountain Winterfest

November 7, 2024

It’s almost the most wonderful time of the year! That means winter is approaching, and it’s time to celebrate in the Smokies. If you are coming into town for the holidays, then you absolutely have to enjoy all the amazing activities at Smoky Mountain Winterfest. This festival is a celebration between Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, and Sevier County. You and your family will love driving around and looking at the Christmas lights displays all over town. There are so many ways to enjoy Smoky Mountain Winterfest. All you have to do is get ready to have a great time! Read More

group rafting with Smoky Mountain Outdoors

4 Reasons to Come Whitewater Rafting in the Smoky Mountains With Us in 2025

October 30, 2024

As our rebuilding process continues, we can’t wait to welcome all of you back on the river in 2025! We are pleased to announce that our 2025 rafting trips are open for reservations so that you can plan your excursion months in advance and take advantage of our wide-open calendar. Here are 4 reasons to come whitewater rafting in the Smoky Mountains with us in 2025: Read More

buses at SMO as it's being rebuilt

Though Buildings Were Lost, We Will Persevere – The Rebuilding of Smoky Mountain Outdoors

October 28, 2024

When Hurricane Helene formed in the Caribbean, it appeared likely that the Smoky Mountains would take a direct hit. The storm reached Category 4 before slamming Florida’s Gulf Coast, then headed north toward the Smokies. However, as it traveled, the course shifted east and dropped an unbelievable amount of rain across Southern Appalachia. While most of the Smokies were far enough west of Helene’s Path to escape with only minor flooding, our white water rafting outpost suffered substantial damage due to our location along the Pigeon River. Though buildings were lost, we will persevere! Read on to learn about the rebuilding of Smoky Mountain Outdoors: Read More

Pigeon River in Hartford Tennessee

3 Things to Know About Hartford TN Weather

October 13, 2024

Our white water rafting season runs from March until October, giving you plenty of opportunity to experience the thrills of the Pigeon River! If you’re trying to decide when to take your trip, keep the weather conditions in mind so that you can plan accordingly! For example, if joining us during the cooler months of the year, you’ll want quick-drying layers and wool or fleece socks to keep your feet warm! Meanwhile, shorts and bathing suits are the norm for the summer! When making your plans, be prepared with these 3 things to know about the Hartford TN weather: Read More

blueberry pancakes

Best Places for Breakfast in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg

October 2, 2024

Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are a scenic drive away from our rafting outpost! If you’re staying in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge, start your day off with a delicious breakfast before making the drive to Smoky Mountain Outdoors for a thrilling rafting adventure. Do you need help finding the perfect restaurant? We have created a great list of the best places to eat breakfast in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg.
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guided horseback riding in the smoky mountains

4 Outdoor Activities in the Smoky Mountains to Do During the Rafting Off-Season

September 18, 2024

Although we have wrapped up another thrilling season of white water rafting adventures, you can still get outside to experience everything that the Smokies have to offer! If you are a fan of the great outdoors, you’ll find plenty of activities to keep you occupied during the late fall and winter months! Here are 4 outdoor activities in the Smoky Mountains to enjoy during the rafting off-season: Read More

Creek near Great Smoky Mountains during fall

Your Ultimate Guide to the Smoky Mountain Fall Colors

September 10, 2024

Autumn is a spectacular time to visit the Smoky Mountains! You’ll not only have the chance to experience some of the best weather of the year, but beautiful fall colors that transform the mountains into a truly magical sight! If you’ve been wondering about the best time to visit during fall foliage season or the top destinations for viewing the colors, we have all the important information that you need! Check out our ultimate guide to the Smoky Mountain fall colors: Read More

bear cubs in cades cove tennessee

5 Things to Know About Black Bears in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

September 5, 2024

The American black bear might as well be the mascot of the Smoky Mountains! With over 1,500 bears throughout the national park, they are by far one of the most popular animals in the area. With a population density of 2 bears per square mile, it’s highly likely you’ll run into one of these creatures while you’re exploring the Smokies. Here are 5 things to know about black bears in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Read More

things to do in the Smoky mountains in september

4 Things to Do in the Smoky Mountains in September

September 1, 2024

If you’re lucky enough to visit the Smoky Mountains in September, you’ll find that it’s the perfect time to experience the Smokies! The peak crowds of the summer season are gone, the weather is delightful, and all of your favorite activities are still in full swing! You can even take advantage of our last white water rafting trips of the season, which run right up through the end of the month and into October! Here are 4 things to do in the Smoky Mountains in September: Read More

rafting on the lower pigeon river

4 Types of Groups Who Love White Water Rafting in the Smoky Mountains

August 27, 2024

If you’re organizing a group trip to the Smoky Mountains and searching for a fun activity to enjoy together, look no further than our white water excursions on the Pigeon River! We feature a variety of rafting trips that appeal to all ages, ranging from relaxing float trips to action-packed excursions with class III and IV rapids! As a bonus, we offer affordable group rates and a dedicated sales staff for your group of 10 or more people! Here are 4 types of groups who love white water rafting in the Smoky Mountains: Read More