If you’ve been looking online trying to decide what rafting company to book with, there are a few things to keep in mind. Even if you’re not planning to raft in the Smokies (although the Pigeon River is idyllic and should be on your list if you plan to visit in-season), we recommend you put these items into your checklist.
1. Guides
When looking for a rafting company, look at the guides who they hire. Rafting in the Smokies hires guides who are trained and certified in CPR and First Aid. Many of our guides raft in the off-season. Our guides are on the lookout for pitfalls, and their number one mission is to keep you safe on the water. Our guides are on the river with respect in mind, both for you and guides from other rafting companies.
2. Training
Not only do we require CPR and First Aid Certification, but we also require our guides to complete six days of river training. We make sure our rafting guides have a solid working knowledge of boat control. While you don’t need any experience to raft, we want to make sure that our guides do!
3. Time in Industry
Book with a company that has been in business for a while. Rafting in the Smokies has been on the Pigeon River since 1978. The owners raised their kids right here in the Smokies. They even helped name the rapids you might hear the guides calling out during a trip on the river.
4. Safety
Every raft trip starts with a safety briefing. Make sure you pick an outfitter who has safety in mind. If they let you go out and swim wherever you want, they could be putting you in danger. While we do allow swimming in certain areas of the river, we know the safest spots. Guides will reinforce safety procedures when you board the raft as well as while you’re on the water.
We hope that you’ll book with Rafting in the Smokies and create unforgettable memories as you raft on the Pigeon River.
