Whitewater Rafting on the Pigeon River: A Thrilling Adventure Near Knoxville

Whitewater rafting on the Pigeon River offers an exhilarating experience that combines the thrill of rapid waters with the stunning beauty of the surrounding Great Smoky Mountains. Located near Knoxville, Tennessee, this adventure is both accessible and unforgettable for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.

Introduction to Whitewater Rafting on the Pigeon River

The Pigeon River, flowing along the eastern border of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is renowned for its vibrant whitewater rafting scene. The river is divided into two sections: the Upper Pigeon and the Lower Pigeon, catering to different skill levels and experiences.

Upper Pigeon River: Offers exciting Class III and IV rapids, perfect for those looking for an adrenaline rush. It's suitable for participants aged 8 and above, making it an ideal adventure for families and groups.
Lower Pigeon River: Features gentler, Class I and II rapids, ideal for families with younger children or those preferring a more relaxed experience.

Interesting Facts and History

Hydropower Generation: The flow of the river is largely controlled by a dam operated by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), ensuring reliable water levels during rafting season.
Natural and Cultural Heritage: The river runs through areas rich in both natural beauty and cultural history, including Cherokee and Appalachian heritage.

Things Visitors Should Know

Best Time to Visit: The rafting season typically runs from late spring through early fall, with scheduled water releases from the dam.
Safety First: Reputable rafting companies provide all necessary safety equipment and briefings. It's crucial to choose an operator that is licensed and has experienced guides.
What to Bring: Swimsuits, water shoes (no flip-flops), sunscreen, and a change of clothes for after your trip.

Local Knowledge and Suggestions

Local Operators: Numerous companies offer rafting trips on the Pigeon River. Research and choose one that best suits your group's needs and experience level.
Other Activities: Combine your rafting trip with other outdoor adventures in the area, such as hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains, zip-lining, or camping.

Getting There from Knoxville

The Pigeon River is approximately a 1-hour drive from Knoxville, TN. Take I-40 East towards Asheville, NC, and exit for the Pigeon River Gorge. Specific directions will depend on your chosen rafting company's meeting location, usually near Hartford, TN.

This adventure promises not only a thrilling ride through the rapids but also an opportunity to connect with nature and create lasting memories. Whether you're a seasoned rafter or trying it for the first time, the Pigeon River offers something for everyone.

Adventure Map

Reviews

Adrian Figueroa5 months ago

What can I say? The entire family had a blast! We did the lower pigeon river rafting because of our 4 year old but all of us had a great time, especially the short swimming portion! Heather was our guide and she was great! Thanks to everyone at SMO for the great experience! Check out the video on our YouTube channel: Fig 5 Adventures! https://youtu.be/gomSwbcrgOY?feature=shared @SMO Yes, Please feel free to share our video. Thank you again! Awesome Experience!

Steph West7 months ago

This was a really fun experience. The guides were great and it had been raining for several days, so the experience was a great combination of challenging and fun. Would definitely do it again, and I recommend it to others!

Rameci Rivera4 months ago

Decided to do rafting for the first time and I expected an adventure out of this tour don’t get me wrong it was fun and exciting but only when there was those loops/waves. We had our guide she wasn’t very engaging half of the ride you’re just quite looking at your surroundings with other strangers. The waiting place has a food truck and there’s a little shop in case you need sunglasses or water shoes.

Rada Koifman3 months ago

My family and I recently had the pleasure of experiencing the upper river rafting with SMO Rafting, and it was absolutely amazing! The trip lasted about an hour and a half, and every moment was filled with exhilaration and fun. Despite the pouring rain, the adventure was nothing short of fantastic. The scenery was beautiful, and the thrill of navigating the rapids added to the excitement. Our guide was super nice, making sure we were safe and enjoying ourselves throughout the journey. Her expertise and friendly demeanor made the experience even more memorable. Whether you're a seasoned rafter or a first-timer, I highly recommend SMO Rafting for an unforgettable adventure on the river. It's a perfect activity for families looking to create lasting memories.

Josh Elliott3 months ago

I really feel like 5 stars isn’t enough. I would 10/10 recommend this. We did the lower river which worked great for us. Grayson was our guide and did an unbelievable job. We can’t wait to go back and do it again. The lower had a few mediums size rapids which made it fun and not just a float down the river.