The natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park offer outdoor adventurers a true haven with whitewater rafting, horseback riding, canoeing, and more! If you're trying to determine the best outdoor excursions available in the Gatlinburg - Pigeon Forge area, consider some of these adventures to make your adrenaline start pumping:
Big Pigeon River Upper Section Whitewater Rafting
- Join your adventurous guide for a Big Pigeon River whitewater rafting excursion that will have you soaked from head to toe in fun! You'll take on a dozen Class III rapids and three heart-stopping Class IV rapids as this mountain river drops altitude quickly. A certified guide will offer training and advice along the way, as well as help you try to take on the might rapids. Some world-class rapids you'll traverse include Razor Blade, After Shave, Too late, Lost Guide, and more.
Big Pigeon River Lower Section Rafting
- For a slower pace with the same beautiful landscape, consider a lazy float trip down the lower section of the Big Pigeon River. An experience guide will join you and your family as you float slowly down this beautiful mountain stream. Worlds away from the whitewater of the Upper Big Pigeon River, this trip is ideal for families with young children who want to share an outdoor adventure without worrying about fast rapids and big wakes.
Big Pigeon River Unguided Canoe Trip
- Pack a cooler of your favorite snacks & beverages and head out to enjoy a relaxing day on the Big Pigeon River. With transportation to the launch site included, all you'll need to worry about is having a blast as you float down the tranquil mountain stream at your own pace. Stop and splash around at a great swimming hole, or bring along your tackle and make it an exciting fishing adventure.
Horseback Riding in the Great Smoky Mountains
- Set out across the Great Smoky Mountains on horseback with a one-hour ride through some of the most beautiful country in the United States. Spot wildlife and marvel at the foliage as you trek along these peaceful mountain trails. Children over the age of 5 will get to ride their own pony, making this a memorable adventure that the entire family can enjoy together.
Deciding which outdoor adventure to enjoy can be difficult, so we've also compiled a list of great combination tours that promise you a day of adventure filled with all of the best of the Smoky Mountain outdoors, including:
- Canoe Tour with Lunch and Ghost & Hauntings Tour
- Prospector Tour: Horseback Riding & Guided Canoe Tour
- Smoky Experience: Horseback Riding, Guided Canoe Tour & Extended Helicopter Ride
- Smoky Experience: Horseback Riding, Guided Canoe Tour & Scenic Helicopter Ride
- The Mountain Man: Canoe and Jeep Tour
- 4 Wheel Drive Jeep Tour
