Pigeon Forge: Family-Friendly Floating Tour at the Smokies

The Smokies are a popular destination for families seeking outdoor adventure, and the Pigeon Forge: Family-Friendly Floating Tour offers an exciting way to experience the region’s natural beauty. Visitors can embark on a thrilling 6-mile cruise down the Pigeon River, navigating class 1 and 2 rapids while taking in the majestic views of the Smoky Mountains. With the guidance of experienced professionals and comprehensive safety measures, this tour blends excitement and tranquility, making it a well-rounded experience for adventurous families. But the adventure doesn’t end there, as the 10-acre island awaits, inviting guests to explore, play, and…

Key Points

• Enjoy a 6-mile guided rafting tour on the Pigeon River, navigating through class 1 and 2 rapids for an exhilarating yet safe family experience.
• Witness the stunning Smoky Mountain scenery, including majestic vistas, vibrant flora, and potential wildlife sightings, creating a balanced adventure.
• Receive comprehensive safety briefings and use high-quality rafting equipment, including life jackets and helmets, ensuring a secure and well-equipped experience.
• Explore the 10-acre island, offering a tranquil nature trail, games, and a playground, providing opportunities for relaxation and family-friendly activities.
• The tour departs from the Rafting In the Smokies outpost, with a 2-hour guided experience in English and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Overview of the Tour

The Pigeon Forge family-friendly floating tour takes visitors on a 6-mile cruise through the Pigeon River, navigating class 1 and 2 rapids while offering stunning views of the Smoky Mountains.

This white water rafting adventure is perfect for families, as it provides a thrilling yet safe experience. The tour is guided, and all necessary equipment like life jackets and helmets are provided.

Participants can expect to splash and play in the water, as well as access a 10-acre island with a nature trail, games, and a playground.

The 2-hour tour departs from the Rafting In the Smokies outpost, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

Cruise Through the Pigeon River

On the tour, visitors cruise for 6 miles down the Pigeon River, navigating class 1 and 2 rapids amidst the stunning Smoky Mountain scenery. The river offers a thrilling yet safe experience, with opportunities to splash and play in the water.

Rapids	Description
Class 1	Minimal difficulty, small waves
Class 2	Moderate difficulty, larger waves

The peaceful float allows adventurers to take in the breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Smokies. Guides provide equipment and instruction, ensuring a fun and safe journey for the whole family.

Navigating the Rapids

As participants navigate the Pigeon River, they’ll encounter class 1 and 2 rapids, which require careful maneuvering by both the guide and passengers.

Class 1 rapids feature minimal difficulty with small waves, while class 2 rapids present moderate difficulty with larger waves, calling for heightened attention and teamwork.

The guide will provide instructions on how to position the raft and paddle effectively to navigate these rapids safely. Teamwork is essential, as passengers must work together to propel the raft and respond quickly to the guide’s directions.

With the guide’s expertise and the group’s coordination, the rapids can be conquered with a thrilling, yet controlled, ride through the Smokies’ scenic waterways.

Stunning Smoky Mountain Views

Navigating the rapids is only half the excitement, as participants are treated to breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains throughout the journey.

The lush, verdant landscape serves as a stunning backdrop, with towering peaks and rolling hillsides that inspire awe and wonder.

Floating peacefully down the Pigeon River, rafters can take in the natural beauty that surrounds them:

• Majestic mountain vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see
• Vibrant splashes of color from the diverse flora and fauna
• Serene waterways that reflect the majesty of the Smokies
• Opportunities to spot local wildlife, such as deer, birds, and perhaps even a black bear

This family-friendly adventure provides a perfect balance of excitement and tranquility, immersing visitors in the breathtaking splendor of the Great Smoky Mountains.

Guided Tour and Safety Briefing

The guided tour begins with a comprehensive safety briefing, where experienced guides thoroughly explain the proper techniques and safety protocols for navigating the river. Guests are provided with all the necessary equipment, including life jackets and helmets, ensuring their comfort and security throughout the adventure.

The guides then lead the group through the class 1 and 2 rapids of the Pigeon River, offering clear instructions and support to help everyone navigate the thrilling yet safe journey. With their expertise and attentive supervision, the guides make sure the rafting experience is both exhilarating and suitable for families, creating an unforgettable memory in the heart of the Smoky Mountains.

Rafting Equipment and Accessories

Guests receive all the necessary rafting equipment, including life jackets and helmets, to ensure their comfort and safety throughout the adventure. The provided gear includes:

• Sturdy, high-quality life jackets to keep riders afloat
• Durable helmets to protect against potential impacts
• Water-resistant clothing and footwear for a splash-filled journey
• Paddles to propel the raft through the rapids

Rafting guides thoroughly explain how to properly wear and use the equipment, enabling guests to feel confident and prepared as they embark on the exciting white water adventure.

With this top-notch gear, guests can focus on the exhilarating experience of navigating the Pigeon River’s class 1 and 2 rapids surrounded by the stunning Smoky Mountain scenery.

Explore the 10-Acre Island

After an exhilarating raft ride through the Pigeon River’s rapids, visitors can explore the tour’s 10-acre island, which offers a wealth of activities and natural beauty.

This tranquil oasis provides a perfect respite from the adventure, allowing guests to stretch their legs, connect with nature, and enjoy some family-friendly fun.

The island features a nature trail, perfect for a leisurely stroll and taking in the stunning views of the Smoky Mountains.

For those seeking more active pursuits, there are games and a playground, ensuring both children and adults can find ways to play and recharge.

The island’s amenities, combined with the breathtaking surrounding scenery, make it an integral part of the Pigeon Forge rafting experience.

Logistics and Inclusions

To begin the rafting adventure, visitors meet at the Rafting In the Smokies outpost, where the 2-hour tour commences. Guided by an English-speaking expert, the experience provides all necessary rafting equipment, including life jackets and helmets, ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey.

Plus, the tour includes access to changing rooms, restrooms, and hot showers, as well as storage for car keys, allowing guests to fully enjoy the Pigeon River experience.

The tour also includes:

• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Guides who provide a safety briefing
• Opportunities to splash and play in the water
• Access to a 10-acre island with a nature trail, games, and playground

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Children Required to Wear Life Jackets?

Yes, children must wear life jackets while on the rafting tour. The tour provider requires all participants to wear the provided safety equipment for their protection during the whitewater adventure.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?

Yes, you can bring your own snacks and drinks to enjoy during the rafting tour. However, the tour operator provides changing rooms, restrooms, and hot showers for your convenience.

Is There a Minimum/Maximum Age Requirement?

The tour has a minimum age requirement of 3 years old. There is no maximum age limit, making it suitable for families with children of all ages. However, young children may require additional supervision.

Can I Leave My Belongings on the Island?

Visitors can leave their belongings on the island while enjoying the white water rafting tour. The island provides a secure space with access to changing rooms, restrooms, and storage for car keys during the 2-hour experience.

Is There an Option for a Private or Group Tour?

Yes, there are private and group tour options available. Visitors can choose a private tour for their party or join a shared group tour. Prices and group sizes vary, so travelers should inquire about the available options.

Recap

The Pigeon Forge: Family-Friendly Floating Tour at the Smokies offers an exhilarating yet safe way to experience the beauty of the Smoky Mountains.

With expert guidance, sturdy equipment, and a thrilling journey through the Pigeon River’s rapids, this tour is a must-do for families seeking an adventurous yet well-rounded Pigeon Forge experience.

Afterward, visitors can explore the island’s amenities, making it a complete outdoor adventure.