“Great day on the river!

– daysharing, TripAdvisor

Upper River Rafting

Our Most Popular Trip!

The longest trip on the Pigeon River – 1.5 miles longer than any other rafting adventure! Take an exciting 6.5 mile ride down class 3 and 4 rapids!

On our Upper River Trip, our certified guides will navigate your raft the entire trip, sharing their love of splashing through big waves, maneuvering around rocks, and enjoying the beauty of being in the great outdoors. Big waves, big drops and plenty of surfing will assure that you have the time of your life.

On your trip, you’ll get to run about 70 rapids ranging from class 1 to class 4. But, never fear, the Big Pigeon River is for the inexperienced and experienced paddlers. Don’t worry Mom, we’re gonna take good care of you and the kids.

How long will I spend on the river? Approx. 1.5 – 2 hours
Who can go on this trip? All rafters must be at least 8 years of age or weigh at least 70 pounds.
Do I have to make a reservation? Strongly recommended!

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Upper River Rafting

– 6.5 mile raft trip down class 3 and 4 rapids
– Certified guide for your entire trip
– Big waves, big drops and plenty of surfing
– Up to 7 people + the guide per raft  *varies according to water level
– Trips go rain or shine!
-Must be 8 years of age or weigh at least 70 pounds

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4,800 5-STAR TRIPADVISOR REVIEWS

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What’s included in the Upper River Rafting trip?

Here are some of the things you can expect to experience when you go on one of our Upper River Rafting trips:

Trip Format

Rafters are asked to arrive at the outpost 45 minutes prior to their scheduled trip time. You’ll gear up and take a 10-minute bus ride to the put-in that includes a short safety talk, and get ready for your adventure! This is the longest trip on the Pigeon River! You’ll have an exciting 6.5-mile ride down about 70 rapids ranging from class 1 to class 4. After about 1.5-2 hours on the river, your trip will end back at the outpost.

Professional Guide

We have a professional guide accompany you on your trip so they only thing you have to focus on is having fun! The guide is there to help keep you safe and guarantee you have a great time. Our guides will share information about the area, tell jokes, and calm any nerves you have about rafting. Each of our guides has completed a training program that includes at least 15–20 trips down the river, and is First-Aid Certified.

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Trip Times/Water Releases
  • April – May: Non-guaranteed water releases. Water levels vary. Trip times and dates vary.
  • May – September: Guaranteed water releases Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday & Holiday Sundays.
  • September – October: Natural flow trips. Trips vary based on water levels.
Any day on the river is a good day! That said, natural conditions may affect recreational water levels. On certain days, river levels may be subject to natural flow rather than dam release. This affects all operators on the Pigeon River. On these days, customers per raft and other adjustments may be made to provide the best overall experience.What to Bring
For cooler temperatures: For optimum comfort – synthetic, quick-drying layers. We don’t recommend cotton – it holds water and wicks away body heat. Secure shoes with a heel strap are required. (tennis shoes, water shoes, sports sandals with a heel strap). Wool or fleece socks will help keep you warmer.
Summer: Swimsuits and shorts work best. Secure shoes with a heel strap are required (tennis shoes, water shoes, sports sandals with a heel strap). Bare feet and flip-flops are not allowed. Don’t forget to bring a change of clothes and a towel.Cancellation Policies
Click here to view our most up-to-date policy information.

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Smoky Mountain Information

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