Big Bear Rafting: Upper and Lower Pigeon River Trips in Hartford

About

Big Bear Rafting is a smaller, locally owned outfitter on the Pigeon River, based on Big Creek Road in Hartford near the North Carolina line. Its guides grew up in the East Tennessee mountains, and the company emphasizes professionally trained, certified staff and a safe, fun trip. The outpost is about 45 minutes from Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, which makes it a manageable half-day adventure from a Smokies cabin.

The Upper Pigeon trip covers about five miles of Class III and IV whitewater in roughly two hours, and a guide rides in every raft with up to seven paddlers. It is open to ages 8 and up, or anyone at least 70 pounds, and no experience or swimming ability is required. The Lower Pigeon offers a calmer float for families with younger children, and inflatable kayak trips let confident paddlers run the lower river on their own. After the trip, 10 to 15 professional photos of each raft are available to buy.

Upper Pigeon trips follow the scheduled water releases, typically Tuesday through Thursday and Saturday from spring through summer, so check the online schedule for dates. Allow about an hour to drive from the Pigeon Forge area and arrive 30 minutes early; parking is in the field across from the outpost. Trips run rain or shine, pets are not allowed, and valuables should stay in your car. Cancel at least 48 hours ahead for a full refund, or 7 days for groups of 10 or more.

Photo: Big Bear Rafting

Did You Know

• Big Bear Rafting describes itself as locally owned and operated by guides born and raised in the East Tennessee mountains (Big Bear Rafting).
• The Upper Pigeon trip covers about five miles of Class III and IV rapids in roughly two hours (Big Bear Rafting).
• Each raft receives 10 to 15 professional photos available for purchase after the trip (Big Bear Rafting).
• Trips run rain or shine, and swimming ability is not required for the Upper Pigeon (Big Bear Rafting).