The Upper Pigeon River

Smoky Mountain Rafting on the Upper Pigeon River:

• 6 1/2 Miles Down the Pigeon River
• 70 Rapids (class 1 to class 4)
• No Experience Needed

An exciting 6 1/2 mile raft trip down class 3 and 4 rapids through the heart of the Smoky Mountains. After arriving at our outpost, you sign in, gear up and listen to the safety talk. Then we're off. We take a 10 minute bus ride to the Carolina Power and Light powerhouse, better known as the Put-in. Once we unload, you will then be assigned to your guide. The guides will then spend time going over paddle commands with each group. From there you'll spend 2 hours on the river enjoying your Smoky Mountain Rafting Trip. Our certified guides will navigate your raft the entire trip. Big waves, Big drops and plenty of surfing will assure that you have the time of your life. 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. On your rafting trip you'll get to run about 70 rapids ranging from class 1 to class 4. It will be all you'll want to handle for the day. Trips go Rain or Shine!

• Please note that every participant must be at least 8 years old or 70 lbs.
• Any special medical problems should be brought to the attention of one of the guides so that we can better serve you.

The Lower Pigeon River

Smoky Mountain Rafting on the Lower Pigeon River:

• 5 1/2 Miles of Pigeon River Rafting
• 50 Rapids (class 1 and class 2)
• And 1 Class 3 Rapid
• No Experience Needed

A guided river rafting trip made just for those of you who didn't quite meet the requirements for the upper Pigeon River.  Rafting on the lower Pigeon River is perfect for the little kids. It's a 5 1/2 mile trip through the scenic Pigeon River gorge.  This adventure begins at the outpost and ends at the Denton Bridge. From there we bus you back up to the outpost. During your Pigeon River rafting trip you will run about 50 class 1 and 2 rapids with one class 3 at the end. Water fights and splashing is very popular on the lower Pigeon River.  The kids absolutely love it, along with mom and dad.  So if you're looking for something with a little less speed, this rafting trip on the Pigeon River is for you.  Trips Go Rain or Shine!

• Each participant must be at least 3 years old and accompanied by an adult.
• Any special medical problems should be brought to the attention of one of the guides so that we can better serve you.

Thrillcats Pigeon River Adventure

Smoky Mountain Inflatable Kayaking Pigeon River:

Challenge yourself to a fantastic whitewater adventure with a guided inflatable kayak trip.  We offer new inflatable kayak rentals on the Pigeon River in Tennessee.  Our inflatable kayaks are designed for maximum performance with superb comfort and enhanced stability.   Which means they are fun, comfortable, and handle rapids well.

This boat is designed to be handled by both experienced and novice boaters.  It's ideal for mom, dad and the kids.  Inflatable kayaking is something everyone should try. Call it a way to get closer to the river or a way to express your individuality. Whatever you call it, an inflatable kayaking trip is just pure fun.

All trips are guided. The difference is, you get to paddle your own boat.  Guides personally escort you down the river.  Along the way you're taught different ways to approach and play in the rapids.  Surfing, spinning and sliding are just a few things you learn. So give inflatable kayaking a try.  You'll absolutely love it.

Map and Directions To
White Water Rafting by Smoky Mountain Outdoors

Only 45 Minutes from Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge
Please Note: There is no rafting in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge. The actual rafting location is 26 miles northeast of Gatlinburg. Please stop by our Gatlinburg location for a detailed map.

Directions from Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge:
Go to traffic light #3 in Gatlinburg. Take Highway 321 North. Go 18 miles till it dead ends at a stop sign (Cosby, TN). Turn left and go 2 miles (you're still on Hwy 321 N.). Turn right onto Foothills Parkway. Take Foothills Parkway 6 miles to Interstate 40. Get on I-40 east bound which is to your right. Take I-40 about 2 miles to your first exit (exit #447 Hartford Rd.). Exit and turn right. Go exactly 1.1 miles. You'll see a big stone sign that says, "White Water Rafting" on the left. Turn left into the driveway. Go to the bottom of the hill and we are on the right.

Directions from Knoxville, TN:
Take I-40 east to exit #447 and turn right. Go exactly 1.1 miles. You'll see a big stone sign that says, "White Water Rafting" on the left. Turn left into the driveway. Go to the bottom of the hill and we are on the right.

Directions from Asheville, NC:
Take I-40 west to second exit in Tennessee, Exit #447. Exit and turn left. Go 100 yards to a stop sign (Exxon on left). Turn right and go exactly 1.2 miles. You'll see a big stone sign that says, "White Water Rafting" on the left. Turn left into the driveway. Go to the bottom of the hill and we are on the right.

Directions from Maggie Valley, NC:
Take Hwy 276 to I-40 west. Exit and turn left. Go 100 yards to a stop sign (Exxon on left). Turn right and go exactly 1.2 miles. You'll see a big stone sign that says, "White Water Rafting" on the left. Turn left into the driveway. Go to the bottom of the hill and we are on the right.