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February 16th, 2024
family rafting in the smoky mountains

5 Tips for Having the Best Time Rafting in the Smoky Mountains

October 15, 2018 February 16th, 2024

White water rafting is one of the best experiences you can enjoy with your family and friends in the Smoky Mountains. Not only is it a fun adventure, but you will get to see the Smokies like never before! We’ve put together some of the most helpful tips that will guarantee you have the best time rafting in the Smoky Mountains.

1. Share It with People You Love

A family holding their paddles over their heads on a Gatlinburg TN white water rafting adventure.Everything is more special when you get to share it with the people you love — including our white water rafting trips! Nothing beats getting to laugh along with your family or friends as you coast down the Pigeon River. We have rafting trips that are great for people of all ages, from kids to adults! Depending on what point during the rafting season you visit, you can choose a thrilling trip on class 3 and 4 rapids on the Upper Pigeon River or a scenic float down the Lower Pigeon River!

2. Save Money

Having fun doesn’t have to be expensive, at least not when you come rafting with us at Smoky Mountain Outdoors! We offer rafting coupons, combo packages, and even discount attraction packages. Our Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg rafting coupons are a great way for you to enjoy time in the great outdoors without worrying about spending too much money! To guarantee you’re getting the best offer, call us and let us help you plan the perfect rafting trip. Our combo packages combine tons of fun into one simple price. We’ve also partnered with CLIMB Works to offer both a zipline tour or mountain biking experience along with our rafting trip. Our discount attraction packages let you make the most of your vacation by providing discounts on tickets to popular attractions like Dollywood and Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies!

3. Don’t Be Nervous

A rafting guide with a big group having fun Upper Pigeon River rafting.Another tip is not to be nervous. We know that going rafting for the first time can be nerve-racking, but you can rest easy knowing that safety is our top priority at Smoky Mountain Outdoors. We have an experienced guide accompany you on your rafting trip who will help you calm your nerves and have an amazing time. All of our guides have completed extensive training and are certified in Standard First Aid. This means you won’t have to focus on anything except having fun!

4. Be Prepared

Our next tip is to come prepared. Make sure you wear comfortable clothing and no jeans or denim. Shorts and a bathing suit or T-shirt is recommended. Also be sure to wear secure-fitting shoes. You can expect to get a little wet during your rafting trip, so bring a dry towel, dry clothes, and dry shoes for after the trip.

5. Choose the Best Trip for Your Group

Happy group of people rafting in the Smoky Mountains.This is one of the most important tips to keep in mind. During rafting season, we have different types of rafting trips available. If you and your group are looking for a thrilling adventure, our Upper River Rafting Trip is best for you. You will course over class 3 and 4 rapids for a 6.5 mile raft trip, hitting big waves, big drops, and plenty of surfing. Our Lower River Rafting Trip is perfect for families, offering a scenic float down the river. For those who want even more of a thrill, try Extreme Upper River Rafting, during which you’ll ride in a smaller boat, meaning you’ll hit bigger waves!

When you follow these 5 tips, you’re guaranteed to have the best time rafting in the Smoky Mountains! Learn more about our rafting trips and decide which one would be best for you and your group.