Smoky Mountain Outdoors: Pigeon River Whitewater Rafting in Hartford

About

Smoky Mountain Outdoors is one of the longest-running rafting companies on the Pigeon River, family owned and operating since 1993. Its outpost in Hartford sits about 45 minutes northeast of Gatlinburg, and trips leave from there by bus to the put-in. For cabin guests looking for a big summer adventure, it offers a full range of trips, from a first float for small children to a splashy Upper River run for thrill seekers.

The Upper River trip spends about 1.5 to 2 hours on the water and covers around 70 rapids from Class I to Class IV, with up to seven paddlers and a certified guide in each raft. It is open to ages 8 and up, or anyone at least 70 pounds. The Lower River is a family float for ages 3 to 7, the Extreme Upper trip is for ages 12 and up, and Upper and Lower combos are available. In spring and fall, natural-flow trips run on whatever the river is doing, with rapids that can range from mellow to Class IV.

From May through September, water releases are guaranteed on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and holiday Sundays; in spring and fall, levels vary. Arrive 30 minutes early at the Hartford outpost, not the Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge reservation offices. Wear secure shoes with a heel strap, since bare feet and flip-flops are not allowed, and skip cotton in cool weather. Lockers cost $2 in cash, and a food truck serves barbecue on site.

Photo: Smoky Mountain Outdoors

Did You Know

• Smoky Mountain Outdoors was founded in 1993 and is family owned and operated (Smoky Mountain Outdoors).
• The Upper River trip runs around 70 rapids ranging from Class I to Class IV (Smoky Mountain Outdoors).
• Guaranteed summer releases run Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and holiday Sundays from May through September (Smoky Mountain Outdoors).
• Spring and fall natural-flow trips run March through April and September through October, when water levels are unpredictable (Smoky Mountain Outdoors).