Pigeon River Rafting: Upper Pigeon Gorge
Product ID: 65223
Supplied by: Nantahala Outdoor Center
Experience thrilling whitewater rafting with stunning scenery of the Smoky Mountains ideal for families and visitors looking to unplug in the outdoors. This adventure delivers nonstop action in a few short hours making it convenient and unforgettable.
Our trips run throughout the late spring, summer, and early fall season, typically from March through October, weather and river conditions permitting.
Highlights
- An exciting half day guided rafting trip for families and those looking for outdoor adventure in the Smokies.
- Splash through nearly continuous Class II-IV rapids like Lost Guide and Accelerator with expert guides at the helm.
- Easily accessible for those visiting Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, or the national park in Eastern Tennessee.
- The Pigeon River offers stunning scenery winding through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
What's included
- NOC provides all paddling equipment and PFDs for this guided adventure.
- Rafts
- Paddles
- Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
- Helmet
- Splash Gear (by request)
Additional Information
Present the confirmation number within your Xplorie Order Confirmation to check-in.
What happens if there is rain or bad weather when my trip is scheduled? - NOC adventures run rain or shine. If inclement weather presents any safety issues, someone from NOC will reach out to reschedule or offer a refund.
How many people fit in one raft? - We generally have six paddlers and one guide per raft, but this depends on bookings and availability. Our Nantahala River and Pigeon River operations can also run a seven-paddler raft with one guide.
Will my group be split up and put with other people in a raft? - This depends on a couple of factors like the size of your group, and the number of bookings for your time slot. The trip leader for your group will determine the raft assignments the day of your trip but will do their best to keep your group together. Generally, if you have six in your group, you will be able to raft together, but this is not always guaranteed.
Cancellation policy
Cancel 30+ days prior = full refund
Know before you go
Requirements
All participants must weigh at least 70 pounds OR be 8 years old. All minors (17 and under) require the presence of an adult during whitewater rafting activities.
Food & Drink
Please bring your own water bottle. Drinks and snacks are available for purchase in the Outpost Store or in the NOC Gatlinburg retail store located just outside of the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains.
Packing List
Dress in clothes that can get wet, and wear shoes that will stay securely on your feet, with a back heel straps (flip flops are not recommended). Don’t forget dry clothes, shoes, and a towel for after your trip. There are changing rooms available.
Clothing that can get wet
Shoes that will stay securely on your feet
In cooler weather, avoid wearing heavy cottons; wear synthetics and wool socks
*Please leave all personal belongings in your car, our guides will take your keys prior to the trip and hold them until your return.
Can I bring my dog on the raft with me? - We do not permit pets on the shuttle or on our equipment including rafts. Our Chattahoochee River rentals do allow dogs on most crafts except for tubes.
We ask that you do not travel to NOC’s locations if you or a member of your party is ill, exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19, or have been recently exposed to COVID-19.
Cancellation Policy
0-3 Days Before Reservation: Guest will be responsible for the full amount of the reservation.
4-13 Days Before Reservation: Cardholder will receive a 50% reservation-booking voucher, to be used within one year of the canceled date on an activity reservation.
14-29 Days Before Reservation: Guest will receive a reservation-booking voucher for the full reservation amount, less a 10% cancellation fee. Voucher to be used within one year of the canceled date on an activity reservation.
30+ Days Before Reservation: Guest will receive a full refund, less a 10% cancellation fee.
Overview
Rafting the Upper Pigeon River combines thrilling whitewater action with epic mountain scenery for families and visitors looking to unplug in the outdoors. This adventure is a popular and accessible option for guests staying in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, or the national park in Eastern Tennessee.
Highly trained NOC guides will navigate you through a quick five miles of splashing wave trains and bouncy hydraulics make this the most popular and convenient river tour NOC offers. With nearly-continuous Class II-III+ rapids like Lost Guide and Accelerator and views into Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Upper Pigeon is an experience you’ll never forget.
