Rafting on the Lower Pigeon River

Fully guided trips on the lower section of the Pigeon are a great introduction to whitewater fun for anyone from four years to senior. The lazy rapids will challenge those with no whitewater experience while showing off breathtaking views of the Smokies.

The Lower Pigeon promises 5 miles of Class I and II rapids providing a fun whitewater experience for the whole family. Minimum age to participate is 4.

Check-in for this trip is in Hartford, Tennessee - approximately 34 miles from Gatlinburg, 40 miles from Pigeon Forge, 55 miles from Knoxville, and 57 miles from Asheville, North Carolina.

The Pigeon River's close proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Knoxville, Maggie Valley and Asheville provides an accessible and exciting trip for the entire family.

There is a guide in each raft. A dam-controlled river, the Pigeon provides action-packed fun throughout the summer.

Provided:

Raft, paddle, PFD, helmet and paddling jacket if needed

Facilities at Check-In/Put-Out Location:

Changing rooms with pull chain showers (no towels or soap provided), river store, picnic area, and a volleyball court.

Important:

All participants must sign a Liability Waiver. Parent or legal guardian must sign for anyone under 18 years of age.

Frequently Asked Questions

How are rapids rated for difficulty?
INTERNATIONAL SCALE OF RIVER DIFFICULTY
Class I-Easy. Few or no obstructions; fast moving water with riffles; risk to swimmers is slight.
Class II-Novice. Wide clear channels; occasional maneuvering; rocks and medium-sized waves are easily missed by trained paddlers; swimmers are seldom injured; assistance is helpful but rarely needed.
Class III-Intermediate. Rapids with moderate, irregular waves which may be difficult to avoid and capable of swamping a canoe; complex maneuvers in fast current and narrow passages require good boat control; large waves, holes and strainers may be present but are easily avoided; powerful current; scouting advisable; swimmers are unlikely to be injured but assistance may be needed to avoid a long swim.
Class IV-Advanced. Intense, powerful rapids; turbulent water; may involve long, unavoidable waves, holes or constricted passages demanding fast maneuvers under pressure; may require "must" moves above dangerous hazards; risk of injury to swimmers in moderate to high; group assistance to swimmers requires practiced skills.
Class V-Expert. Long, obstructed, turbulent rapids; drops may contain very large unavoidable waves, holes or steep congested chutes with complex demanding routes; several of these factors may be combined at the upper level of this class; rescue is extremely difficult; above average rescue skills are essential.
Class VI-Almost Impossible. Difficulties of Class V are carried to the limits of navigability; very dangerous; risks are high and rescue may be impossible; for teams of experts only under favorable conditions.

Is rafting really safe?
Your outfitter has been in business for 30 years and has maintained an excellent safety record. Team Members go through extensive training before being "checked out" as a trained guide. All guides are trained in CPR and First Aid with many being trained in Advanced Wilderness First Aid as well. The goal is to provide guests with a quality trip that is both safe and enjoyable. However, due to the nature of whitewater rafting and other associated activities, all participants are required to complete a personal liability release form before the trip.

What if I cannot swim?
Many rafters cannot swim but you must be comfortable in water. On all trips, Coast Guard-approved lifejackets are provided and must be worn. In general, you should be comfortable in water and all rafters should be able to follow directions.

Do I need to be physically fit?
Participation is required on this trip, meaning you must paddle. You do not need to be an athlete; however, a good physical condition is recommended. Lifejacket limitations are a maximum girth of 52 inches. For any medical conditions that may be affected by strenuous activity, please consult your doctor. IF YOU ARE PREGNANT, YOU WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO PARTICIPATE!

What do I wear?
In the summer - shorts, a bathing suit and shoes that will stay on your feet are recommended. For the spring and the fall - we recommend layering with synthetics such as fleece or polypropylene.

What happens if there is bad weather?
Trips go rain or shine. You are going to get wet anyway so why not enjoy your river trip when other activities like hiking and biking are better suited for sunny and dry weather. Rainy days also provide some of the most beautiful scenery as fog and mist rises off the river. A baseball cap can help by keeping rain out of your eyes. In the event of a locally severe lightning storm, trips may stop and pull over on the bank. Exposure while on the river is at a minimum because of the high ridgelines and trees that surround the river. Trip starts may be delayed if a storm is occurring at the check-in center. Federal Agencies that license outfitters have established a protocol for paddling at specific water levels. If the water levels exceed safe levels, trips may be cancelled or relocated. In the case of a trip cancellation, guests are offered the option to reschedule or receive a full refund.

Do I have to fill a raft?
No. Whether you come by yourself or with a large group, you can be accommodated on a trip. If you do not have a full boat, groups will be combined. The rafts on the Pigeon River hold 6 people.

What factors determine the age/weight requirements?
The line has to be drawn somewhere. Minimum ages and/or weights are usually set by the managing agency who regulates each river. Your outfitter will ask and require a signature from a parent signifying proper age.

72 HOURS MINIMUM ADVANCE BOOKING REQUIRED. Hotel pick-up or drop-off is not included. Child rate applies to children ages 7 to 13. Please reserve online, or call us toll-free at 888-804-9479.