Whitewater Rafting in the Smokies
Whitewater—the
term conjurs up visions of free-flowing, thundering, white-
capped
river excitement! Whitewater rafting is the ideal outdoor adventure
for kids and adults—great for family adventures that will
ensure memories of shared teamwork and comraderie for years to
come. The rafting season begins in March and runs to early November.
Spring whitewater trips offer the added benefit of higher water
and wildflowers, and fall offers its color extravaganza.
Rivers are classified according to difficulty and are assigned classifications that range from II (easy) to IV (difficult). The "difficult" designation would mean you are used to physical exertion and consider yourself "fit". Be mindful of these classifications when making your plans—we want you to come back again and again.
Wildwater Rivers
Chattooga
Unknown to many people until the movies "Deliverence" in 1972, the Chattooga was designated a Wild and Scenic River shortly after in 1974. The Chattooga offers the full range of difficulty from which to choose. No bystanders are permitted here—you must be prepared for physical exertion on these trips.
French Broad
The French Broad River is about 25 miles north of Asheville, North Carolina and offers easy to moderately challenging (Class II-III) trips. Trips can be guide-assisted or not, depending on your experience or desire.
Nantahala
The Nantahala is one of the most popular choices because it offers a great experience for beginners and "old pros" alike. The heart-pounding rush through Nantahala Gorge and Nantahala Falls (Class III) is memorable. The Nantahala is just south of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Nolichucky
Huge boulders and one of the deepest canyons in the East highlight this water trip through the Pisgah and Cherokee National Forests.
Ocoee
The Ocoee, east of Franklin, Tennessee, was site of the 1996 Olympic whitewater events—so you know this isn’t your grandmother’s excitement. Class III-IV action can be expected.
Lower Pigeon
The lower section of the Pigeon River offers Class II and III rapids and guide-assisted trips are ideal for kids as young as 6 up to seniors.
Upper Pigeon
Located in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, the Upper Pigeon River offers approximately 5 miles of Class III and IV rapids are convenient to every other Smokies area attraction.
Outfitters
There are numerous outfitters from which to choose, and the services they offer and experience can run the gamut. All equipment, meals, and guides are available with some companies. Ask questions and make your selection carefully, because your river adventure’s success might depend on your choice! Remember—we want you to come back.
USA Raft – http://www.usaraft.com or call 1-800-USA-RAFT
Nantahala Outdoor Center – http://www.nocweb.com or call 1-888-662-1662
Wildwater Rafting – http://www.wildwaterrafting.com or call 1-800-451-9972
Cherokee Adventures, Inc. – Call 865-743-7733 or 1-800-417-5497
Rafting in the Smokies – P.O. Box 592 Gatlinburg TN 37738 or call 865-436-5008
Rip Roaring Adventures – 1-800-449-RAFT
Smoky Mountain Outdoors Unlimited – 1-800-771-RAFT