Rafting and Water Tubing in the Smokies
Splashing Summer Family Fun
Looking for fun ways to cool off during your Smoky Mountain vacation? Rafting and river tubing are two of the most popular summer activities near Pigeon Forge and Sevierville. From calm scenic floats to exciting whitewater rapids, there are great options for families, couples, and adventure seekers alike.If you’re staying at Ridge View Lodge or Appalachian Escape Cabin, all of these outfitters are within an easy day trip.
Whitewater Rafting Near Pigeon Forge and Sevierville
Whitewater rafting in the Smokies takes place on the Pigeon River in Hartford, Tennessee, about 30 miles from Sevierville. These guided trips range from gentle to thrilling, depending on the section of river you choose.Rafting in the Smokies
https://www.raftingsmokymountains.com/Rafting in the Smokies offers both Lower Pigeon River trips (family-friendly with mild rapids) and Upper Pigeon River trips (Class III-IV rapids for thrill seekers).
Distance:
- From Ridge View Lodge: about 50 minutes - approximately 32 miles
- From Appalachian Escape Cabin: about 50 minutes - approximately 33 miles
- Lower River: generally 3+ (check current requirements)
- Upper River: typically 8+
Smoky Mountain Outdoors
https://www.smokymountainrafting.com/Smoky Mountain Outdoors is one of the most established rafting outfitters in the region. They offer professionally guided rafting trips and occasional combo adventures that include ziplining or ropes courses.
Distance:
- From Ridge View Lodge: about 50 minutes - approximately 32 miles
- From Appalachian Escape Cabin: about 50 minutes - approximately 33 miles
Season:
Rafting usually operates from May through September, depending on water releases and weather conditions.
Smoky Mountain River Rat - Tubing and Rafting
https://smokymtnriverrat.com/
Smoky Mountain River Rat is a popular outfitter offering both river tubing on the Little River in Townsend, TN, and whitewater rafting on the Pigeon River in Hartford, TN.
Tubing
Their tubing experience in Townsend features scenic floats and optional jumps for a fun family day on the water. Ages 3+ can tube, and two main tubing routes are available with a day pass.Distance:
- From Ridge View Lodge: ~40 minutes - ~25 miles
- From Appalachian Escape Cabin: ~40 minutes - ~27 miles
Whitewater Rafting
River Rat also runs guided rafting trips on the Pigeon River near Hartford, TN. Trips include lower (class I–II) family floats and upper (class III–IV) whitewater sections, with full-day and half-day options.Typical minimum ages:
- Lower rafting: usually ages 3+
- Upper rafting: usually ages 8+ (varies by trip)
- From Ridge View Lodge: ~50 minutes - ~32 miles
- From Appalachian Escape Cabin: ~50 minutes - ~33 miles
River Tubing Near Pigeon Forge and Townsend
River tubing is a more relaxed water activity and a favorite for families with younger children.
Smoky Mountain River Rat Tubing
https://smokymtnriverrat.com/Located in Townsend on the Little River, Smoky Mountain River Rat Tubing offers scenic tubing routes with shuttle service. Guests can float once or enjoy unlimited tubing for the day.
Distance:
- From Ridge View Lodge: about 40 minutes - approximately 25 miles
- From Appalachian Escape Cabin: about 40 minutes - approximately 27 miles
- Most routes are suitable for children, with life jackets available
Tubing generally runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day, weather permitting.
Wild Bear Tubing
https://www.wildbeartubing.com/Wild Bear Tubing is one of the closest tubing options to Pigeon Forge and Sevierville. Located on the Little Pigeon River, it’s ideal if you want tubing fun without a longer drive.
Distance:
- From Ridge View Lodge: about 15 minutes - approximately 6 miles
- From Appalachian Escape Cabin: about 15-20 minutes - approximately 7 miles
Quick Comparison - Rafting and Tubing Options
| Outfitter | Activity Type | Typical Age Limits* | Distance from Ridge View Lodge | Distance from Appalachian Escape |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rafting in the Smokies | Whitewater rafting | 3+ (Lower), 8+ (Upper) | ~50 min - 32 miles | ~50 min - 33 miles |
| Smoky Mountain Outdoors | Whitewater rafting | 3+ (Lower), 8+ (Upper) | ~50 min - 32 miles | ~50 min - 33 miles |
| Smoky Mountain River Rat Tubing | River tubing | All ages (with life jackets) | ~40 min - 25 miles | ~40 min - 27 miles |
| Wild Bear Tubing | River tubing | All ages | ~15 min - 6 miles | ~15-20 min - 7 miles |
*Always check each outfitter’s website for current age, height, and safety requirements.
Tips for Planning Your Water Adventure
- Check the outfitter’s website the day of your trip for water levels and weather updates.
- Wear water shoes or secure sandals - river bottoms can be rocky.
- Bring sunscreen, towels, and dry clothes for the ride back to your cabin.
- Morning trips are often less crowded during peak summer months.
Make It a Perfect Smoky Mountain Vacation Day
After a day on the river, return to your cabin to relax and unwind. Whether you’re grilling dinner, soaking in a hot tub, or enjoying the mountain views, Blue Mountain Cabins offers the perfect home base for your Smoky Mountain adventure.Explore our cabins: 👉 Book direct at https://www.bluemountaincabins.com for the best rates and local tips.