Pigeon River Rafting with NOC in Hartford, TN
NOC Pigeon Outpost •
3485 Hartford Road • Hartford, TN 37753
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Pigeon River Rafting Ticket Options
About Pigeon River Rafting with NOC
Overview
Raft the Pigeon River with Nantahala Outdoor Center! The Upper Pigeon features Class III-IV white water rapids along the Great Smoky Mountains National Park border. In just three hours, experience a full dose of whitewater rafting excitement and scenery. Raft with the best, and make this summertime classic a part of your Smokies vacation!
Good To Know
- 45-minute drive from Gatlinburg.
- Bring a change of clothes and towel.
- Closed-toed shoes required.
- Raft rain or shine.
- All guides are certified.
- Pregnant women cannot raft.
- Age requirement is 8+ for upper section.
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Description
NOC is rated "One of the Best Outfitters on Earth" by National Geographic Adventure and the "#1 Vacation with a Splash" by Good Morning America. Operating out of the scenic outpost in Hartford, Tennessee, this activity offers the most trusted guided rafting tours on the Pigeon River. Whether you are looking for a high-intensity whitewater challenge or a peaceful family float, NOC's world-class guides ensure a safe, exhilarating journey through the heart of the Cherokee National Forest and along the border of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
The Pigeon River is a dam-controlled waterway which guarantees consistent splashy water levels from spring through autumn. For those craving adrenaline, the Upper Pigeon Gorge features 5 miles of continuous Class II-III (and occasional IV) rapids with iconic drops like Accelerator and Roller Coaster. For families with younger explorers, the Lower Pigeon River provides a gentle, 5.5-mile scenic float with mild ripples and plenty of opportunities to hop out for a swim. With over 50 years of heritage in outdoor adventure, NOC combines expert instruction with breathtaking mountain views to create the highlight of any Tennessee vacation.
Pigeon River Rafting with NOC is located at NOC Pigeon Outpost • 3485 Hartford Road • Hartford, TN 37753
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Frequently Asked Questions about Pigeon River Rafting with NOC
Are all Rafting with NOC trips guided?
Yes, all trips are fully guided.
How far is Rafting with NOC from Gatlinburg?
The Smoky Mountain Outdoors Pigeon River Outpost is located about 45 minutes north of Gatlinburg.
Do I have to know how to swim?
No, every guest is issued a type 5, Coast Guard approved personal floatation device. The "PFD" is designed to give you all of the floatation needed on the river.
Is there a minimum age requirement?
The minimum age/weight for the Upper Pigeon trip is 8 years old or 70 pounds. You have to be at least 3 years old to go on the Lower Pigeon trip.
When are raft trips scheduled?
The Pigeon River is not a free flowing river. About ten miles upstream from our launch area there is a dam that regulates the amount of water flowing down the river. From Memorial Day to Labor Day the flow is consistent and we can schedule accordingly. During the summer months we raft Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday.
If I am pregnant can I go?
We do not recommend rafting if you are more than two months pregnant.
What do I wear for a rafting trip with Smoky Mountain Outdoors?
Shorts, t-shirt and secure fitting shoes. No flip-flops or bare feet allowed. During the Spring and Fall avoid cotton clothing, it really absorbs water and will make you cold. Wear clothing that will not absorb much water like wool. Good synthetic fabrics are fleece and polypropylene. Do not wear jeans. Also, bring a dry change of clothes and a towel for after the trip
Do you raft in the rain?
We raft rain or shine. Rafting is one of the best rainy day activities because getting wet is part of the fun! We may delay the trip for a few minutes to allow a strong storm to pass.
