Tennessee River Rafting Guide: Pigeon River, Ocoee River & Nolichuky River Adventures

While the storm impacted the Pigeon River’s access points, the river is still the same thrill it always has been. The Upper Pigeon starts slightly down river, but still serves Smoky Mountain river views, rushing rapids and a thriving ecosystem. Floodwaters from Hurricane Helene reshaped parts of the riverbed, carved out new lower-section rapids and revealed clearer waters — adding a fresh challenge for returning paddlers and extra excitement for families. You’ll raft past ongoing improvements and storm-shaped landscapes, all part of a powerful story of resilience, recovery and renewal.

Plan your rafting adventure with one of these whitewater rafting outfitters offering Pigeon River trips now through October 2026.

The closest rafting outfitter to Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville and Great Smoky Mountains National Park, 5 Rivers Adventures offers several trips down the Pigeon River that are fun for the whole family during your Smokies vacation. It's the perfect way to cool off in Tennessee.

• Seasonal highlights: River rafting is hosted in the spring and summer. For specific date availability, call 1-888-204-8779 or email 5riversadventures@gmail.com.
   
• What to bring or wear: Wear clothes you don't mind getting wet, that are warm and comfortable. Spray jackets for cooler days and water shoes are available to be rented or purchased, respectfully. Proper footwear must be worn. Shoes with a heal strap such as river sandals, water shoes and tennis shoes are acceptable. Bring a towel and change of clothes for your post-trip. Private changing rooms and outdoor rinse showers and hot showers in the bath house are open for use.
   
• Trip guidance: Pigeon River rafting trips include the intermediate Upper Pigeon trip that is ideal for kids ages 8 and up or anyone weighing over 70 lbs. No rafting experience is necessary. The trip down Class III/IV rapids will spike your adrenaline in a safe and fun way.  The Lower Pigeon trip features Class I rapids, a few Class II and one Class III rapids, ideal for families with children as young as three years old. Book a combo Upper and Lower trip to experience the whole river. Book the High Adventure Trip for the wettest and wildest ride down the upper section rapids in a Mini-Max raft – a smaller boat that holds a maximum of 4 people.

Located just off the banks of the Pigeon River, Big Bear Rafting is one of the Southeast’s amazing whitewater rafting experiences. 

• Accessibility: For specific accessibility details, please call 855-866-5189. Each guide has a minimum of First Aid and CPR; as well as extensive training in all aspects of river guiding and rescue. Many of our guides hold certification as Wilderness First Responders. All trips are equipped with First Aid kits and river rescue equipment. 
   
• Seasonal highlights: Upper Pigeon River trips are offered April-August. Lower Pigeon River trips are offered late April-August.
   
• What to bring or wear: Wear secure footwear - flipflops and bare feet are not allowed. In cool weather, wear wool, polypropylene or synthetic materials with warm socks of wool or synthetic materials. Cotton isn't recommended because it will absorb water and become heavy. In warm weather, wear a t-shirt, shorts and/or swimsuit and waterproof sunscreen. Bring along a change of clothes, extra shoes and towel.
   
• Trip guidance: On the Upper Pigeon River, you’ll experience 5 miles of Class III and Class IV rapids. The two-hour trip will take you over famous rapids like Powerhouse, Lost Guide, Double Reaction and Accelerator. If relaxation is your family’s vibe, choose the Lower Pigeon River trip, a great introductory rafting trip for children and novices, where you’ll take in breathtaking views of the Great Smoky Mountains while enjoying 5.5 miles of Class I and II rapids. The 2.5 hour trip is great for children 3 years old and older.

Find big adventure or serene floating with Big Creek Expeditions. There are trips that are ideal for families with small children that are lowkey and relaxing. Rafting adventures are great for beginners and rafters ages 8 and older.

• Accessibility: Big Creek Expeditions do not exclude guests from participation based on physical conditioning, unless your doctor would advise against rafting. Please consult with your physician before taking part in strenuous activity. For specific accessibility details, please call 877-642-7238. 
   
• Seasonal highlights: The Pigeon River is dam controlled. Scheduled water releases typically run May-September. Big Creek Expeditions' season can begin as early as March 1 and end as late as Oct. 31. For more information on season details, call 877-642-7238.
   
• What to bring or wear: Secure footwear is required on the river. No flip flops are allowed. Be prepared to get wet. During the summer months, you can wear shorts, a t-shirt and a bathing suit. Rafting during the early spring and fall months calls for wearing clothing like wool and synthetic materials as well as long underwear and socks. Wet suits are available for rent. Bring a dry set of clothes to change into after your trip. Sunscreen, a towel and straps for any glasses are highly recommended as well.
   
• Trip guidance: Your adrenaline will be high when you navigate the Upper Pigeon River with your guide while also enjoying the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. Your rafting trip is about 3 hours and is great for rafters ages 8 and older. If you’re traveling with small children, the Lower Pigeon River scenic float trip could be for you, featuring stunning views of the Great Smoky Mountains and Cherokee National Forest. Big Creek Expeditions also offers a 6+ hour full-day Pigeon River Rafting. Start on the lower section of the river, enjoy lunch at food trucks, local cafes or bring a packed lunch to enjoy by the river, and then paddle the thrilling 6.5 miles of Class III and Class IV whitewater on the Upper Pigeon River.

One of the best places to go in the summer are one of the trips offered by Nantahala Outdoor Center ranging from calmer trips for families with young kids to adventurous thrills ideal for families with older kids. 

• Accessibility: Certain age and weight limits are in place for some of the adventures offered by Nantahala Outdoor Center. Go to the website's "requirements" section for specific trip information. Please review the Participant Eligibility Recommendations for full details. For any additional accessibility questions, please call 828-785-5082.
   
• Seasonal highlights: Trips on the Pigeon River occur May-September.
   
• What to bring or wear: Dress in clothing that can get wet and wear secure shoes. Flip flops are not allowed. Bring a change of clothes, shoes and towel for after your trip. In cooler weather, avoid heavy cottons and instead, wear synthetics and wool socks. Your rafting guides will secure your car keys prior to the trip.
   
• Trip guidance: Lower Pigeon Gorge: For a thrilling, but easy trip down the Pigeon River, choose the guided Lower Pigeon River Rafting trip that takes you through the Lower Pigeon Gorge. Ideal for children 3 years old and older, the rafting trip is 2.5 hours and is one of the best summer family vacation ideas in the Smokies. 
  Upper Pigeon Gorge: Take your older children on the Upper Pigeon Gorge guided rafting trip, considered easy-moderate. Unplug in nature and enjoy nonstop whitewater rafting adventure on endless Class II, Class III and Class IV rapids while soaking in views into Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The guided rafting trip is 2.5 hours long.

For more than 30 years, Raft Outdoor Adventures has taken adventure seekers down Class III rapids of the Pigeon River, located close to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. 

• Accessibility: For accessibility questions, please call 866-333-7238.
   
• Seasonal highlights: Ride the river with some of the friendliest guides you’ll meet. You’ll have a splashing good time that's perfect for family summer vacations and friends getaways full of adventure. Raft Outdoor Adventures hosts trips all year long. The water flow of the Pigeon River is controlled by a dam and will vary by season. 
  Spring: Upper Pigeon River trip is available with dates, water level and flow varying. Check the calendar for details.
  Summer: Upper and Lower Pigeon River trips are offered Tuesday-Thursday and Saturday and holidays 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  Fall: Upper Pigeon River trips are offered. Raft trips after Sept. 6 will experience a variety of water levels, class rapids may be calm or thrilling as levels change daily.
  Winter: Rafting trips are offered in winter depending on conditions. Expect water temps of 50-60 degrees Fahrenheit in February and March. Families love to join in on the fun for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's!
   
• What to bring or wear: Wear secure shoes with a heal strap, tennis shoes or water shoes. No flip flops are allowed. Water shoes are available for sale at The Outpost onsite. Quick-dry clothing, activewear, t-shirts, shorts and bathing suit under your clothing are all great options. Wetsuits are rentable at The Outpost. Bring a dry set of clothes to change into after your trip and sunscreen to apply before your trip. If you'd like to bring a GoPro camera, there are a few helmets available onsite with the appropriate attachment. Car keys will locked and secured in the office upon your arrival.
   
• Trip guidance: The Upper Pigeon River trip is 5 miles (and 1 hour on the river) and lasts about 2 hours total. The trip is ideal for ages 8 and up or anyone 70lbs and up. The Lower Pigeon River is ideal for ages 3 and up. You’ll have 2 hours on the water to enjoy stunning mountain and riverside views.

Make your way down 4.2 miles of the Upper Pigeon River in Hartford, Tennessee with Rapid Expeditions. You’ll ride down 60 rapids ranging from Class I to Class IV with your certified whitewater guide. After your adventure, take a dip to swim in the river. You can also float down the river for a less intense river rafting experience. 

• Accessibility: For accessibility questions, please call 1-888-504-7238.
   
• Seasonal highlights: Trips down the Pigeon River run from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The Pigeon River is on a scheduled release. Rafting trips are scheduled Tuesday-Thursday and Saturday when the water is guaranteed to be flowing. 
   
• What to bring or wear: Wear clothing and shoes you don't mind getting wet. Bathing suits, t-shirts and shorts are fine. Synthetic or wick-away water fabrics are highly recommended. Sunglasses with a secure device and a waterproof, disposable cameras can be brought along. Apply sunscreen before your trip. Bring a change of clothes for after your trip. Rapid Expeditions offers men's and women's changing facilities.
   
• Trip guidance: The Lower Pigeon River raft trip is 5.2 miles and 2 hours of floating fun that takes you through the beautiful Cherokee National Forest. Perfect for families with small children, you can ride Class I and Class II rapids or avoid most of the rapids for a quieter ride down the river. Experience both the Upper and Lower sections of the Pigeon River for a 9.4-mile rafting adventure. You’ll experience calm floating sections as well as rapids ranging from Class I to Class IV. Kayaking lessons are also available upon request.

Smoky Mountain Outdoors is a family-owned and operated Pigeon River rafting service and one of the top 10 experiences in the U.S. 

• Accessibility: There are no upper limit weight requirements. Lifejackets can accommodate a chest girth of 54". For all other accessibility details, please call 865-430-3838.
   
• Seasonal highlights: Natural flow trips occur March-April and September-October when water levels determine trip variety. Adjustments are made depending on river water levels subject to natural flow rather than dam release.
   
• What to bring or wear: Swimsuits and shorts work best in the summer, paired with secure shoes with a heel strap like water shoes, tennis shoes or sports sandals. Cooler temperatures call for optimal comfort by wearing synthetic or quick-drying layers. Cotton is not recommended as it stays wet and wicks away body heat.
   
• Trip guidance: 
  Upper Pigeon River Rafting Expedition: The longest trip on the Pigeon River – an exciting 6.5-mile, 90-minute adventure down Class III and Class IV rapids. Your certified guide will navigate your raft the entire trip, sharing their love of splashing through big waves, enjoying the beauty of the great outdoors and more. You’ll run down 70 rapids ranging from Class I to Class IV rapids on the Upper River Rafting expedition. 
  Lower Pigeon River Rafting: Want to relax down the river? If you have children ages 3 and older, this is a perfect way to enjoy the Pigeon River and surrounding mountain views along the 5.5-mile trip. Water fights and splashing make this an enjoyable trip down the river for everyone. 
  Extreme Upper River Rafting: For thrill seekers, book the Extreme Upper River Rafting trip. You’ll be in a smaller raft which means your guide will push the limits running go-for-it lines, hitting big waves and surfing waves and hydraulics for an unforgettable ride down the Upper Pigeon River. All rafters must be at least 12 years of age, have the ability to swim and previous rafting experience is recommended. Smoky Mountain Outdoors also partners with CLIMB Works Zipline Canopy. Save $20 when you book your white water rafting trip at Smoky Mountain Outdoors and a scenic canopy tour featuring 9 ziplines, 3 sky bridges and more with CLIMB Works.

Smoky Mountain River Rat is your rafting destination if you’re seeking thrills on the Pigeon River. Smoky Mountain River Rat tubing in Townsend is family-friendly and dog-friendly. The route features a private rock jump and swimming holes as well as several sets of moderate rapids. The adventurous route serves up adrenaline-pumping rapids, swimming holes and Riverside Cabana Rentals near the route exit.

• Accessibility: For accessibility questions, please call 865-448-8888.
   
• Seasonal highlights: Whitewater rafting is open March-September. River tubing is open Memorial Day-Labor Day
   
• What to bring or wear: 
  Tubing: Bring watershoes/protective footwear and wear clothes you don't mind getting wet, push sticks and sunscreen. You can bring a small bag (12" wide x 18" high x 6" deep) with 1 non-alcoholic drink in a reusable water bottle or a water bottle strap to secure your disposable bottle to the tube.
  River rafting: Wear clothes you're fine with getting wet and secure footwear which is required. It's recommended to wear sunscreen before your trip. Towels and dry clothes are recommended to use and change into after your trip.
   
• Trip guidance: They offer a classic Upper Rafting adventure where you’ll navigate Class III-Class IV rapids that are suitable for rafting beginners and families with kids ages 8 and older. Families with children 3 years old and older will enjoy the scenic route with smaller rapids, stunning Smoky Mountain views and swimming holes to enjoy along the way. If you’re wanting a wild thrill, test your agility on the Xtreme Upper rafting route. You’ll navigate rapids in a smaller raft that provides more agility and access to unique routes. Each expedition is personalized to your ideal level of adventure. 

Wildwater Adventure Centers in Ducktown, Tennessee near Chattanooga is the oldest white water river rafting outfitter in the Southeast. Enjoy Class III and Class IV waves on the Ocoee. Have an adrenaline-rushing adventure on the Ocoee's big drops, rapids and dramatic hydraultics on either or both the Middle or Upper sections of the river. 

• Accessibility options: Certain whitewater trips may be suitable for those with different abilities. All buildings are ADA accessible with ADA parking spaces. Please call 423-496-4904 for accessibility details.
   
• Seasonal highlights: Guarnateed days on the Ocoee River are weekends on the Upper Ocoee River when there are water releases and Thursday-Monday on the Middle Ocoee River during the summer. Weekend releases take place on the Ocoee in the spring and fall. 
   
• What to bring or wear: It's recommended to wear shorts or a bathing suit with a t-shirt in the summer, water shoes or shoes that will stay on your feet are required. Synthetic fleece or polypropylene are ideal for spring and fall white water river rafting trips.
   
• Trip guidance: The Upper and Middle Ocoee River is ideal for intermediate and advanced rafters as well as families with children 12 years and older and company retreats or celebrations. Both expeditions on the Upper and Middle portions of the Ocoee River are three hours.
   

Adventures Unlimited leads Ocoee River white water river rafting trips ideal for all skill levels for ages 12 years old and older. Ride the waves minutes from the stunning Cherokee National Forest. Enjoy tent camping, RV camping or glamping in a bungalow and cabin to fully immerse yourself in an outdoor adventure weekend.

• Accessibility: For accessibility details please call 423-338-4325.
   
• Seasonal highlights: The Ocoee is a dam-controlled river that guarantees excellent water levels all season, including crashing waves and exciting rapids.
   
• What to bring or wear: Wear synthetic type of material, which stay lightweight even when wet and dry fast. Guides wear long sleeves to protect them from the sun. Wear sunscreen and you can wear a hat if it fits under your helmet. In cool weather, wear a synthetic blend material like polyester or wool which wick away moisture and retain heat. Splash gear is available to borrow for your trip. Wetsuit rentals are available onsite, which may be necessary on cold early spring or late fall mornings. Shoes must be worn on the river. Water shoes and aqua socks are ideal for footwear; though, if you have an old pair of tennis shoes, those will work just fine as well. Flip-flops aren't safe for white water river rafting. Denim, eyeglasses or sunglasses without a retaining strap and jewelry should not be worn while on the river.
   
• Trip guidance: The Classic Middle Ocoee River Rafting trip is ideal if you don't have experience white water rafting. Bring along your sense of adventure for a 5.5-mile, 2-hour, expertly guided trip down the Ocoee. The Full Ocoee River Rafting trip is 10 miles and a 4-hour trip on the river. No experience is necessary.

The Ocoee River is a nonstop, wild adventure of Class III and Class IV rapids with expert guides on one of the most popular whitewater rivers in the U.S. The whitewater river rafting near Chattanooga experience that Cherokee Rafting brings you is safe and enjoyable for everyone over the age of 12 years old. You'll follow the waters through the Cherokee National Forest that have fast-moving water, continuous rapids and exciting outdoor adventure.

• Accessibility: Depending on the condition or disability, Cherokee Rafting may be able to accommodate you. Always notify your physician if there are any questions about participating. Please call for questions and additional details. Insulin, medications, inhalers, epi-pens, etc. can be carried in the medical kits in case you need them on the trip. Clear any special medical needs with the front office staff and trip leader prior to departure. Each participant is required to sign a release of liability waiver. All guides go through extensive training and are CPR and First Aid certified with some guides having advanced certifications such as Wilderness First Responder or Emergency Medical Technician certifications. Pregnant women are not allowed to raft.
   
• Seasonal highlights (best times to raft): The best time to raft the Ocoee River is March through October. Peak rafting takes place in late spring through early fall. Summer offers the warmest weather and strongest flows. Spring and fall bring beautiful scenic views and fewer crowds. 
   
• What to bring or wear: Wear quick-drying clothes, watershoes or sandalds with straps. Avoid cotton as the material gets heavy when wet. 
   
• Trip guidance: White water Ocoee River rafting is great and safe for beginners. All trips at Cherokee Rafting are led by trained guides with safety equipment and you'll get a pre-trip safety talk so you feel confident on the river. 
  The Middle Section of the Ocoee River is one of the most popular stretches of whitewater with over 20 continuous class III and class IV rapids. Children must be 12 years or older to participate. Large groups can call 800-451-7238 for group rates. This 3-hour route is ideal for beginners, summer family vacations, corporate team building, family retreats with older children and experienced adventurers. 
  The Full River experience takes you through the Upper Section of the Ocoee River and includes the Olympic sections of the Ocoee River. The 5-hour trip takes you near Ocoee Dam No. 3, then downstream to intense Class III and Class IV big water. The trip includes a riverside picnic lunch served at the end of the Upper section. After lunch, race down the Middle seciton of the Ocoee for more than 20 Class III and Class IV rapids including Hell's Hole.
  The Personal High Adventure Ocoee Rafting Trip is a personalized trip with a senior guide one-on-one experience. Jump into a Puma raft which is narrower, shorter and ride the rapids completely differently. Surf, swim and explore the Ocoee middle section to see the river in a whole new way. Water and light snacks are included. 

Ocoee Adventure Center delivers an exciting, enjoyable and safe experience on the Ocoee River in East Tennessee. The expert guides know the river and are highly trained. They bring hundreds of years of combined experience to the Ocoee River to ensure your family, friends, coworkers or travel group have an unforgettable white water river rafting experience.

• Seasonal highlights (best time to raft): Ocoee Adventure Center operates Thursday-Monday from Memorial Day to Labor Day in peak rafting season. Weekend-only trips are offered May-September. The Ocoee is dam-controlled with guaranteed water releases May-October. 
   
• What to bring or wear: Wear clothes you don't mind getting wet and secure shoes that won't slip off. Quick-dry fabrics and water shoes or sandals with straps are ideal. 
   
• Trip guidance: Ride more than 5 miles of continuous rapids on the Adventure on the Middle Ocoee featuring Class III and Class IV rapids. Beginners and seasoned rafters can enjoy this section of the Ocoee River surrounded by stunning scenery. It's a must-do white water river rafting adventure near Chattanooga you have to experience while on a summer family vacation, reunion or corporate retreat. Children must be 12 years or older. 
  The Full River Trip includes legendary Olympic whitewater section from the 1996 Games. The 6-hour adventure includes huge rapids and a riverside lunch. Children must be 12 years or older. 

Blue Ridge Paddling opens June 1, 2026 for high adventure whitewater rafting trips on the Nolichucky Gorge. Trips are offered for every skill level to ensure everyone has a great time river rafting.

• Seasonal highlights: The guided river rafting trip varies depending on water level but typically is 2.5-3.5 hours on the water. Paddling opportunities are open for booking starting June 1, 2026.
   
• What to bring or wear: Bring a swimsuit or bottoms you don't mind getting wet, closed toe river shoes or Chaco and Teva-style sandals. Cotton and jeans are not allowed for safety reasons. Sunscreen is recommended. The onsite outfitter store has quick-dry shirts and other items you may need before river rafting.
   
• Trip guidance: The Nolichucky Gorge is a Southeast Tennessee gem that has been refurbished following the 2024 Hurricane Helene. You'll experience a constant flow of Class III and Class IV rapids with plenty of excitement around every bend.

Go splash in the Nolichucky River with Hawksnest Whitewater Rafting which hosts river rafting trips down the Lower Nolichucky. Get ready for white water river rafting that includes swimming holes, sandy beaches and plenty of rapids for a day full of outdoor adventure.

• Accessibility: When making your river rafting reservation, please inform the customer service team at 828-963-6561 of any pertinent medical conditions within your group so river staff can be prepared and able to make appropriate accommodations. For physical or cognitive limitations, please seek the advice of a medical professional. Hawksnest is able to accommodate most conditions, but keep in mind rafting can be a high-adventure participatory experience.
   
• Seasonal highlights: River rafting happens rain or shine. The Nolichucky River is free-flowing, so the water level fluctuates based on rainfall. Higher flows mean bigger waves. The water is warmer compared to nearby dam-controlled waterways.
   
• What to bring or wear: Do not bring anything that could potentially be lost in the river such as jewelry, phones, watches or wallets. It's recommended you bring any medication you may possibly need as guides have a safe place to store medications during your adventure. A secure location is provided to leave vehicle keys. Bring water bottles, sunscreen, wear clothing that's breathable and can get wet. Dry clothing and towels are recommended to be left in your vehicle, which you can access after your trip. The Outpost has restrooms, changing rooms, a retail store for any needs and secure parking that accommodates RVs.
   
• Trip guidance: Raft the thrilling waters of the Lower Nolichucky which is perfect for families (minimum age is 5 years old and minimum weight is 50 pounds), first-time rafters and experienced paddlers. Your trip is 5.5 miles and is about 2.5-3.5 hours on the river with nearly a dozen Class II and Class III rapids.