Couples enjoy whitewater rafting in the Smokies. Image courtesy of Smoky Mountain River Rat

Family adventure in the Smoky Mountains should include a whitewater rafting trip.

An Upper Pigeon expedition features five miles of scenic river with rapids ranging from class III to IV and refreshing swimming holes to enjoy along the way. Surrounded by the beauty and grandeur of the Cherokee National Forest and the Great Smoky Mountains, the Upper Pigeon River combines racing rapids with natural beauty to bring you the excitement of rafting in the Smoky Mountains. Guides are ready to get you out of the crowds and busyness of the everyday and into all the fun of the Upper Pigeon Rafting Adventure.

Rafting in the Smoky Mountains with young ones, or just want to take it easy? Then the Lower Pigeon Rafting Adventure is just what you need! This trip has plenty of rapids to satisfy your craving for excitement, but the Lower Pigeon is mellow enough for even the youngest thrill seekers. This route also features refreshing swimming holes, should you want to enjoy them along the way.

Also available is a Daycation Rafting Adventure. This all-day Rafting adventure includes 2 Rafting expeditions + a meal. Start the day off with the rush of Class III and IV rapids as you raft the Upper Pigeon. The adventure includes a lunch break to fuel up and finish out the day rafting down either the Lower Pigeon or the Upper Pigeon again. This adventure combo helps you make the most of your day on the river and ensures you leave with no regrets!

Dam-controlled water releases ensure quality whitewater action Tuesdays through Thursdays and Saturdays, Memorial Day through Labor Day. Unscheduled releases do continue into other months of the year.

Most outdoor rafting stations are equipped to accommodate persons with most any type of physical impairment.