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
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