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September 22nd, 2020
Group of people enjoying whitewater raft trip

5 Things to Know About Smoky Mountain Whitewater Rafting in Hartford vs. Gatlinburg

May 13, 2019 September 22nd, 2020

When you’re planning a fun whitewater rafting trip, there is no better place to visit than Hartford, TN. If you’re looking for whitewater rafting near Gatlinburg, raft with us at Smoky Mountain Outdoors! Our rafting outpost puts you a short drive away from Gatlinburg and everything the area has to offer. To help you learn more, we’ve put together the top 5 things to know about Smoky Mountain whitewater rafting in Hartford vs. Gatlinburg.

1. Short Drive from Gatlinburg

Downtown Gatlinburg ParkwayWhile there’s no whitewater rafting directly in Gatlinburg, our rafting outpost puts you just a short drive away! If you’re looking for the ultimate rafting adventure to try during your Gatlinburg vacation, there’s no better place to visit than Smoky Mountain Outdoors. We’re located just 45 minutes away from downtown Gatlinburg. Spend your morning on the river and your afternoon strolling the Gatlinburg Parkway and visiting the most popular shops, restaurants, and attractions. Our location makes it easy to enjoy a vacation filled with both outdoor adventure and exciting attractions.

2. Located on the Pigeon River

When you go Smoky Mountain whitewater rafting in Hartford, you’ll be rafting on the Pigeon River. The Pigeon River enters Tennessee after the village of Waterville and continues with I-40 through Hartford to Newport before flowing into the French Broad River. You can choose to raft on the Upper or Lower sections of the river, both in Hartford, TN. The Upper section features Class III and IV rapids, and the Lower section features calmer waves and takes you through the scenic Pigeon River gorge.

3. Safe & Fun

rafters with guideOne thing that’s important to know about our whitewater rafting trips is that they’re both safe and fun! Whichever rafting trip you choose, you’re guaranteed to have an amazing time. To make our trips safer, we have an experienced guide go with you on your rafting adventure. Our guides not only make your trip safer, but more enjoyable as well! You won’t have to focus on anything but having fun, and they’ll keep you laughing and smiling the whole way down the river.

4. Enjoy Both Rafting & Ziplining

On your visit to Gatlinburg, we want you to make the most of your vacation time. That’s why we offer the ultimate adventure. You can combine a rafting trip with us in Hartford with a zipline tour with CLIMB Works near Gatlinburg! CLIMB Works has two zipline tours: the Mountaintop Zipline Tour and Treetop Canopy Tour. Both include the opportunity to see the Smokies from a bird’s eye view, an ATV adventure, sky bridges, and more. Our adventure package helps you save $20 on your rafting trip/zipline tour. Learn more about our zipline and rafting combo package!

5. Perfect Adventure for the Family

family rafting in the smoky mountainsOur Smoky Mountain whitewater rafting trip in Hartford is the perfect adventure for the whole family! If you’re looking for more of a thrill, try our trip on the Upper River. At 6.5 miles, this is the longest trip on the Pigeon River — it’s 1.5 miles longer than any other rafting adventure in the Smoky Mountains! You’ll get to run about 70 rapids ranging from class 1 to class 4. If you have younger children in your family or just want a calmer ride, try the Lower River trip. This 5.5 mile trip through the Pigeon River gorge is great for those looking for a little less speed.

Rafting in Hartford is the perfect outdoor adventure for you to enjoy when you visit Gatlinburg! Now that you know everything you need to know about Smoky Mountain whitewater rafting in Hartford, it’s time to book your trip. Check out our trip planner and choose your adventure!