Whitewater Rafting vs. Family Float: Which One?

Rafting in the Smokies is the Real Deal!

The summer months are upon us and it’s time to start planning your outdoor activities.  Here at Rafting in the Smokies, we offer multiple adventures for the entire family as well as challenging courses for thrill seekers. Today we’re breaking down the difference between our Whitewater Rafting trips and our Scenic Family Float on the Pigeon River. Read on to discover which is right for you!

Lower Pigeon Scenic Family Float

Surrounded by the breathtaking Smoky Mountains National Park, our Scenic Family Float is the ideal trip for families and individuals looking for a picturesque, relaxing time on the river. Enjoy calm Class I and II rapids along six miles of the Lower Pigeon River on an estimated two-hour trip. This activity is perfect for everyone three years old and up. Our rafts hold six to seven people plus one of our friendly, professional river guides to assist you on your journey. Learn more about this activity and how you can bundle it with our other activities in a discounted package!

Upper Pigeon Whitewater Rafting

Get ready for amazing thrills on our Whitewater Rafting trips! Experience 12 Class III and 3 Class IV rapids as you raft over five miles of the breathtaking Upper Pigeon River. This activity lasts an hour and a half and is available to everyone eight years old and up (or +70lbs). Just like our Scenic Family Float, our rafts hold six to seven people plus one of our expert river guides. No previous experience is needed to go whitewater rafting with us. Learn more about our whitewater rafting activities, discount packages, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!

Amenities for Everyone

The Scenic Family Float is best suited for relaxation in the great outdoors, while Whitewater Rafting is ideal for the thrill-seeker. Each of these activities give you access to our free Family Adventure Island. Enjoy 10 acres of barbeques, picnic tables, walking trail, playground, and water’s edge play area. This is the perfect place to relax and regroup after spending time on the river.


Whatever type of river adventure you’re looking for, we have your bases covered here at Rafting in the Smokies. Summer is upon us and now is the time to book your trip! Read up on all of our deals and packages and book yours today. We’ll see you on the river!