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May 31st, 2023
Scenic rapids you will see while Gatlinburg white water rafting in the spring.

6 of the Best Things About Gatlinburg White Water Rafting in the Spring

April 10, 2015 May 31st, 2023

While the Great Smoky Mountain area offers exciting outdoor adventure opportunities throughout the year, few can compare to Gatlinburg white water rafting in the spring. Now that spring is finally here, Smoky Mountain Outdoors has put together six of our favorite things about the season.

(See Also: 5 Tips for Making the Most of Your White Water Rafting Adventure in Gatlinburg)

1. Amazing Scenery

Spring is the time of the year when everything in the Great Smoky Mountains is bursting with life. As you raft along the river, you can expect to see gorgeous wildflowers blooming in a spectacular array of colors and all the trees showing off their vibrant green leaves.

2. Higher Water

Spring showers are great for the flowers, and they also contribute to a higher water level in the river. This makes for a faster and much more exciting rafting trip. Sudden spring showers also feel great as you raft down the river. You are going to get wet with or without rain, so you should be sure to bring a change of dry clothing!

3. Fewer CrowdsHappy group Gatlinburg white water rafting in the spring.

Because our white water rafting trips are tremendously popular, reservations for specific times can become a bit competitive in the summer months. During the spring season, not as many people are expected, so you can schedule a rafting trip at your convenience.

4. Excellent Weather

Tennessee’s summers can have some extremely hot weather. If you aren’t a fan of the heat, then you are sure to enjoy your rafting trip during spring’s much more mild temperatures. You will find that it is still plenty warm enough to enjoy your rafting trip, without any fear of becoming overheated or uncomfortable.

5. Spring Savings

Discounts and promotions are often available during the spring months that aren’t offered at other times of the year, so be sure to ask about any possible deals when you make your reservations. We offer special savings on combo rafting trips, which allows you to enjoy both our mild and wild rafting options.

You can also save money when choosing one of our discount Smoky Mountain attraction package deals. This allows you to combine your rafting adventure with several other popular things to do in the area, such as Dollywood, the Dixie Stampede Dinner Attraction, or Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies.  Another great way to save is our rafting and zipline package that allows you to conquer the Pigeon River and then spend hours on a canopy tour through the trees at CLIMB Works.

Yellow wildflower you will see while Gatlinburg white water rafting in the spring.6. Animal Sightings

Spring is the best time of the year to see Smoky Mountain wildlife. After the long winter, the animals are finally out and about enjoying the fresh mountain air and sunshine. Don’t be surprised if you raft by some white-tailed deer, wild turkey, woodchuck, salamander, or even black bears!

Make your reservations for Gatlinburg white water rafting in the spring with Smoky Mountain Outdoors today! Our professional and friendly rafting specialists are standing by to help you plan the perfect rafting trip for your family at the best possible price.