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people rafting in the smoky mountains
August 25, 2020

If you have ever wanted to try white water rafting but have been hesitant for any reason, we are here to put your mind at ease! There are many myths out there about white water rafting that may make people nervous about getting out on the river. The truth is that it is a fun and safe activity that can easily become the highlight of your vacation to the Great Smoky Mountains! Here are the top 3 myths of white water rafting in the Smoky Mountains:

1. White Water Rafting is not a Safe Activity

The first major myth to overcome about white water rafting is that it is an extremely dangerous activity. Of course, there is always a small amount of risk involved with any type of physical activity, but we set our standards at the highest level possible. All of our guides are fully certified in Standard First Aid and CPR, and every trip is equipped with a waterproof first aid kit. Every guide also participates in a strict training program that requires at least 15 to 20 trips down the river before qualifying to run a commercial trip. In addition, every white water rafting trip with Smoky Mountain Outdoors begins with a 20-minute safety talk. Our reputation for safety is one of the highest in the southeast!

2. Our White Water Rafting Excursions are Only for Those in Excellent Physical A group of people white water rafting in Gatlinburg.Condition

Another myth about white water rafting in the Smoky Mountains is that our rafting excursions are only applicable for physically fit adults. The truth is that virtually anyone can join the fun on the river with Smoky Mountain Outdoors! Regardless of experience of physical ability, we offer a rafting trip for you. We can accommodate almost everyone on the river, so if you have any concerns, contact us and we’ll talk you through our regulations.

3. You Have to be an Adult to Participate in White Water Rafting with Smoky Mountains Outdoors

Many folks think that our white water rafting trips are only for adults, but our excursions are fantastic fun for the entire family! We offer two rafting trips, a gentle float trip on the scenic lower Pigeon River and an exciting raft trip down class 3 and 4 rapids on the upper Pigeon River. Children at least 3 years old can go on our Lower Pigeon trip and is a perfect excursion for families with children under 8. The minimum age and weight requirement for our Upper Pigeon River trip is 8 years old or 70 pounds.

A boy smiling while river rafting in Gatlinburg TN.Now that we have cleared up the myths about white water rafting in the Smoky Mountains, make your reservation today with Smoky Mountain Outdoors! We look forward to seeing you soon on one of our white water rafting adventures!

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Rafting Experiences

Upper Pigeon River
  • Moderate Trip - 2 Hours
  • Ages 8+ or 70lbs
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Lower Pigeon River
  • Easy - 1 to 1/2 Hours
  • Trip times may vary with water levels
  • Ages 3+
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Extreme Upper Pigeon River
  • Moderate - 1 1/2 to 2 Hours
  • Trip times may vary with water levels
  • Ages 12+
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