He wasmore, What they are renting as SUP board is a hybrid kayak SUP with a Kayak paddle.more, Rafting/KayakingPaddleboardingBike RentalsNorris, beautiful 9 mile down river paddle, guided or unguided!more, We called Lakeshore Marina to rent a kayak for a friend and ask about launching our own kayaks.more. Reviews on Kayak in Gatlinburg, TN - Smoky Mountain Rafting, Adventure Smoky Mountains Kayaking, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Wildwater, NOC Gatlinburg The Pigeon River is a dam controlled river that winds its way through North Carolina and Eastern Tennessee just outside Great Smoky Mountains National Park. https://adventuresmokymtns.com/, https://www.facebook.com/Adventuresmokymtns/. Kayaking for beginners or the experienced is available in several spots in Tennessees smoky mountains. Operating since 1993, SMO Rafting is the most trusted outfitter on the Pigeon River. Here are some of our favorite spots for creeking and tracking or just floating (you will have to paddle at some point unless you are sittin pretty in the middle seat). For experienced kayakers seeking a challenge, the French Broad River is a great option. Kayak rentals also are available at River Johns. 9/28/2020. But here at Rapid Expeditions we really focus on the personal touch. Most people that visit the Smokies are here to enjoy the outdoors, usually by hiking, biking or taking an auto tour. See the mountains from where only boats can go. He rearranged his schedule so that we could kayak on a different day. Dont forget to pick up a lifejacket wherever you rent. The best type of clothing to wear in the outdoors is something synthetic. The river has Class I and II rapids, making it ideal for families with children or beginners who want to experience kayaking without too much risk. #1 Tubing & White Water Rafting | Smoky Mountain River Rat They will be your conduit and guide into your wildness adventure, and NOC has some of the best. Whitewater Rafting in Tennessee - White Water Attraction near Gatlinburg TN - Pigeon Forge Rafting White Water Rafting in the Great Smoky Mountains The Most Trusted Outfitter on America's #1 River VIEW RAFTING TRIPS NAMED ONE OF THE TOP 10 EXPERIENCES IN THE UNITED STATES JOIN US ON THE PIGEON RIVER Highest possible recommendation!more, Join us for a relaxing river tubing adventure! Nantahala Outdoor Center is one of the nations largest outdoor recreation companies. Seven Islands State Birding Park is participating in kayaking instruction on May 21 as part of National Safe Boating Week according to this story: https://www.wate.com/news/tennessee/tennessee-parks-offering-low-cost-kayaking-instruction/, It says, A limited number of kayaks, paddles and life jackets are available for participants who reserve the equipment in advance. Heres how to contact them: https://tnstateparks.com/blog/tennessee-state-parks-partner-with-american-canoe-association-for-kayak-instruction. Their location right on the Pigeon has a strategic advantage as guests can put their raft just steps from where they park by the Big Pigeon River, without an extra bus ride. Nashville-Davidson Metropolitan Government (Balance), TN. The horseback tour includes 70 acres of scenic pioneer trails. Smoky Mountain Outdoors 191 Rafting/Kayaking "We set to do a combo trip for white water rafting and kayaking for my group and I for our last day." more 2. In this article, well explore some of the best places to launch a kayak in Key West. Rafting - White Water Attraction near Gatlinburg TN We do create fun trips the whole family will remember. Rafting in the Smokies | Gatlinburg, TN 37738 Rafting in the Smokies has pioneered White Water Rafting in Tennessee since 1978 on the Pigeon River! Big Creek Expeditions also offers aPaddle & Saddle combo where you see the Smoky Mountains by land and water with a 6-mile horseback trail ride in Sevierville and a whitewater adventure on the Upper Section of the Pigeon River. Its a little further away, but they do rentals. Grab your paddle and explore the best kayaking & canoeing destinations near Gatlinburg, TN. 811 East Parkway, P.O. It was started by a Knoxville architect that had passion for white water rafting and decided to open his own adventure outfitter. 1. Tellico and Chilhowee Lake in East Tennessee offer paddlers a unique opportunity to explore dynamic and diverse ecosystems. 2. Sporting Goods Gatlinburg. My husband and I always rent a two man duck unguided and go downits a lot of fun and definitely a recommended activity. As Dave notes, Rapid Expeditions has a fantastic kayaking school. The team there is amazing.". This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. Canoes were used by The French to establish the fur trade (worldwide industry dealing in the acquisition and sale of animal fur) and played a significant role in the exploration of North America. In addition discounted group rates are always available for groups starting at 10 or more on up. The Pigeon River features two sections: the Upper and Lower region. I love rafting/kayaking on the Pigeon River because it is in the Heart of the Smokies. Just take Exit #447 to Hartford, off I-40 near the Tennessee/North Carolina border and you're there! https://knoxvilleadventure.com/. Professional photo of the adventure, gift shop items, and meals are available for a fee. From start to finish this was the highlight of our." more 3. 2. And what better place to kayak than on the Harpeth River? Highest possible recommendation!" Make sure to paddle with a group or guide who knows the river well. Welcome to Smoky Mountain River Rat! The Pigeon offers visitors a thrilling adventure for all ages whether you are looking to test your limits on the Upper or enjoy a nice float down the Lower. Canoe at River Johns near Townsend, Tennessee one of the sweetest towns youll ever visit. 1. Our rafting trip was so much fun, and our guide Jake handled our craft expertly, and got us back safe and sound. As Dave Crawford, owner of Rapid Expeditions explains, These sections are based on the class of rapids. Canoes come in many different sizes and shapes to meet different needs. Browse Nearby. Be sure to enjoy some kayaking in Gatlinburg for your next trip! #s, When there's so much to love, it's hard to pick a, Have you scheduled your Smoky Mountain Vacation ye, You're gonna love this featured Pigeon Forge Cabin, Visit Gatlinburg from this Luxury Plus Cabin: We know you by your name and want to get to know our guest. Plan your route ahead of time to avoid getting lost. For outdoor adventure sports enthusiasts or those seeking more than the raft, NOC also offers a premier paddling school with superb paddle instruction trips. Brentwood, TN. dealers, Get started right with local safety education, training, You won't find safe or feasible canoeing / kayaking deep within the GSMNP. Best kayaking near Gatlinburg, TN 37738. Zipliningalso is available, and the company offers combo packages. See this Thread for some info on kayaking and canoeing: https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g143031-i2563-k13622483-Wears_Valley_Things_To_Do-Great_Smoky_Mountains_National_Park_Tennessee.html, You could inquire here, too: https://rapidexpeditions.com/, Also, over the mountain in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Smoky Mountain Rafting 18 Rafting/Kayaking This is a placeholder "What an amazing white water rafting company. The Best Whitewater Rafting. 1. Your Guide to Kayaking and Canoeing in the Smokies This quarry is located near the Ijams Nature Center in South Knoxville. Lower Pigeon River rafting is the ultimate way to spend a day outside with your family. There are numerous whitewater rafting companies and outfitters to choose from. Adding a business to Yelp is always free. I would call the various places and if they dont, some would likely be able to advise who does. Perfect for experienced paddlers and groups of any size. Top 10 Best Kayak Rental near Gatlinburg, TN 37738 - Yelp The Cheoah River is a dam controlled section of whitewater that has become one of the "bucket runs" for Western, North Carolina. The river also offers breathtaking views of the mountains and lush forests surrounding it. You can stock a backpack and head up for a stay at the rustic LeConte Lodge, and despite the lack of electricity, it is a sellout every year. Experience whitewater rafting and ziplining during your vacation! Canoe with one paddle with an ore on one end. What are people saying about rafting/kayaking near Gatlinburg, TN? Chimney Tops Trail is a 3.6-mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Gatlinburg, Tennessee that features a river and is rated as difficult. This river runs through the heart of downtown Gatlinburg and offers stunning views of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. When visiting the park, visitors are able to see and enjoy the mountains in many ways. I love being outdoors and being in the mountains and Im lucky enough to call this place home., Ben Lethco, Manager of NOC-Gatlinburg adds, Whitewater rafting in the Smokies is amazing because it is a different way to explore to Smokies. (Most visited National Park) The high mountain views, the streams that flow through, and the wild life that call it their home. He rearranged his schedule so that we could kayak on a different day. Breckenridge offers several stunning locations where you can kayak and immerse yourself in the breathtaking surroundings. Try Adventure Smoky Mountain Kayaking in Kodak (Sevier County). Hands will be in the proper starting position when your elbows are bent at 90 degrees. Are you planning a trip to Key West and looking for adventurous activities to do? With exciting class-III and -IV rapids, whitewater rafting in Tennessee begins right here, in Gatlinburg. Located just down the road from the Gatlinburg Pigeon Forge area, numerous whitewater rafting adventures allow visitors to experience nature and the national park on a whole new level. NOC GATLINBURG - 24 Reviews - 1138 Pkwy, Gatlinburg, Tennessee - Yelp It's that easy! Paddlers meet at the Tsali Recreational Area Paddle Grapple is a 3- or 6-mile flatwater kayak, canoe and SUP (stand-up paddleboard) race on beautiful Fontana Lake, which is nestled at the foot of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, just a few miles from the Nantahala Outdoor Center. Bouncy waves and gentle rapids make this trip perfect for families with young children 3 and up or those looking for a relaxing scenic experience. Smoky Mountain Rafting. Welcome to Rapid Expeditions, a rafting and kayaking company located in Hartford, TN. Click here to add your listing to Go-Tennessee.com. These are some rafting/kayaking with a large number of reviews near Gatlinburg, TN: Great Smoky Mountains National Park (363 reviews), Smoky Mountain River Rat Whitewater (52 reviews). We decided on Wild Bear Tubing and we were not disappointed! Guided whitewater and kayak trips on the upper and lower Big Pigeon River and, A bit more technical and challenging than group rafting, there is no experience like being one with the rapids and waves. We offer the best whitewater rafting experience in the Smokies. River Johns canoes are durable and as safe as the people doing the paddling. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-113525302', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Louisville, TN. You'll also receive all of the safety equipment that you need, including a life jacket and helmet. Rapid expeditions also boasts prime real-estate. River Rat Whitewater Rafting - Gatlinburg - TN Vacation From rafting and kayaking to hiking and biking, NOC offers their guests the opportunity to explore the adventurous side of the outdoors and the adventurous side of themselves.. This is a review for rafting/kayaking near Gatlinburg, TN: "Steve went out of his way to accommodate us when the weather turned nasty. The Gatlinburg area has numerous white water rafting options. Are you an adventure enthusiast looking for a thrilling experience in the beautiful town of Breckenridge? Start by grasping your paddle with both hands and centering your paddle shaft on top of your head. Canoe & Kayak Rental Fees: When you are finished, you can shower, change clothes, and get ready for more fun in the Smoky Mountains, whether thats visiting another attraction, going out to dinner or heading back to the hot tub in your American Patriot Getaways cabin. Its because of our experience, unparalleled in the industry. Whitewater & Flatwater Kayaking | Nantahala Outdoor Center Learn about kayaking areas such as Ramsey Cascades, Fingerlake, Big Laurel Creek Area, Big East Fork, Baby Falls. Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge, TN. Adventures Outdoors offers numerousmore, Rafting/KayakingPaddleboardingGuest HousesMarshall, If you are looking for a 1/2 day or full day to raft on the French Broad this is a great place to use for your outing. As for swimming, the Townsend Wye is a very popular spot; Greenbrier . The Cabin Rental Store Keeps the Fun in Your Gatlinburg Vacation He rearranged his schedule so that we could kayak on a different day. He is a genuine good ol' boy. The Slab and Eternity hole, located on the East Fork of the Tuckasegee River, are two of Western, NC's best play spots for kayakers of all levels. If rafting or tubing are definitely more your style, be sure to check out our blog post all about places you can make a splash in our local rivers! I understand they are there to help, but Imore, This store is big! To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. 2023 The Outbound Collective - Terms of Use - Privacy Policy. . Regardless of whether you're a beginner or an experienced kayaker, you will love paddling down the river with Smoky Mountain Outdoors. This incredible river features class II-IV rapids. Ask about our Packages and Discounts. gear, Local fishing holes, gear advice, and retailers, Discover local campsites, helpful hints, and where to buy gear, Canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding opportunities near you, Your local trail guide for all ages and skill levels, Off-road riding in your area, plus instruction, rentals, and This is one of the newest parks in Knoxville but it has been a part of Knoxville for centuries. Give American Patriot Getaways a call at 800-204-5169. In total, this intensive course requires 15 days of additional hard-skills development including Rescue3 International River Rescue Professional Certification and a SOLO Wilderness First Responder Certification. In acanoe, the paddler kneels or sits and uses a single-bladed paddle to propel the boat forward, moving the paddle from one side of the boat to the other. The rapids are thrilling and the scenery is beautiful. Beginning at the North Carolina state line, the Upper section of the river ends at Hartford, Tennessee. What are some highly rated paddleboarding near Gatlinburg, TN? However, guests will need to bring secure shoes such as tennis shoes, water shoes, river shoes or sandals with straps that go around the heels for safety, towels and change of clothes., As Charlie concludes, Rip Roaring Adventures is a family friendly because of the different trips offered. " From the point of departure to River John's down the river is approximately 7 1/2 miles. Adventure seekers can experience a wilder side of the Smokies when they take a whitewater rafting trip down the picturesque Pigeon River.