4 Ways to Prepare Months in Advance for Rafting in the Smoky Mountains

Are you already thinking about the next white water rafting season? It’s never too early to start planning a trip! There’s a lot to think about when it comes to rafting in the Smoky Mountains. Check out these 4 ways to prepare months in advance for rafting in the Smoky Mountains:

1. Choose a Season

During the off season, you’ll have plenty of time to decide when you want to go rafting in the Smoky Mountains. If you decide to come in the spring, you’ll have to think about what the weather will be like and plan accordingly. Will it possibly still be cold? Do you need extra layers since you’ll be getting wet? Summer will definitely be warmer than spring, which makes white water rafting a great summer activity since it helps you cool off! Fall can be extremely hot, warm, or even cold in the Smokies. Just do your research about the seasons before you decide when you want to go rafting!

2. Choose a Trip

The next way you can prepare for your trip months in advance is to decide what kind of trip you want to take. Want to go for an unpredictable ride on the river? Go on a Spring or Fall Trip! The water levels are unpredictable during these seasons, making your ride unique. You could experience class 3 or 4 rapids or have a leisurely ride down the river. The spring and fall trips are offered March through April and September through October.

On the Upper River Trip, expect rapids ranging from class 1 to 4! This is the longest trip at 6.5 miles down the Pigeon River. Riders of all experience levels can go on this trip since a guide helps you along the river. You can go on an Upper River Trip from mid May to September.

Do you really want to feel the rapids and have even more of an adventure? Try our Extreme Upper River Trip! You’ll be in a smaller raft with a fewer amount of people, making the experience even more intense. You’ll still have a guide showing you the ropes, and you must be able to swim. Previous rafting experience is recommended for this trip.

For something with a little less speed that’s perfect for kids, go on a Lower River Trip. Kids who are 3 years old and up may go on this trip with an adult. Splashing and water fights are common with this trip! A guide is in the raft with you, and you can book one of these trips from mid May to September.

3. Make a Reservation

No matter what kind of trip you decide to go on, you should make a reservation. It’s never too early to get your name on the list, and the earlier you reserve your spots, the more likely you are to get the date, time, and type of trip you want!

4. List Things to Bring

Go ahead and make a list of the things you’ll need to bring with you when you go rafting in the Smoky Mountains. When you already have your list, all you’ll have to do is pull it out and pack the items you need! Some of the items you’ll need include:

• A towel
• Your swimsuit
• Extra change of clothes
• Sunscreen
• Proper shoes
• Bag for wet clothes
• Sunglasses with a strap
• Contacts instead of glasses

There are many ways to prepare months in advance to go rafting in the Smoky Mountains. Thinking about combining rafting with another activity? Check out our packages for even more fun stuff to do!