Whitewater rafting on the Big Pigeon River is an excellent idea for activities with family, friends, or even a corporate team-building event. If you’re new to white water rafting, you’ll quickly learn that it’s a great activity to elevate your mood while soaking up the beauty of nature all Spring & Summer. In addition to the immersive scenery, white water rafting has tremendous benefits that you can enjoy personally and as part of a group. A group rafting trip is a great way to make memories with your friends, families, and colleagues.
As you plan your trip on the Big Pigeon River, it’s important to understand that this body of water operates on scheduled dam releases. Therefore, scheduling a rafting trip at any venue utilizing the Big Pigeon River, you can expect thrilling class III & IV rapids. Scheduling your trip in advance is highly recommended so that you can ensure the most excitement.
Let’s look over the advantages of each season and help you decide the best time to go white water rafting for yourself, your family, or your group!
Temperatures during the rafting season
The most important aspects to consider are temperature and water levels. There are different things to be mindful of as the seasons change, and we’ve broken down what to expect during each one.
Spring
In the spring, you won’t have to deal with the sometimes steaming heat of the summer months. However, you’ll also need to prepare for chilly temperatures.
On a warm May day, it might be tempting to head down the Big Pigeon River in a cotton t-shirt. However, we strongly advise against doing so. While spring days in the Great Smoky Mountains are beautiful, it’s always colder when you get wet.
For the best white water rafting experience in the spring, remember that even if it’s a warm day, getting wet will cool you down significantly. Consider layering by wearing a synthetic long-sleeved undershirt, or inquire about our full-body splash suits to add some additional protection and insulation.
Remember, you can always take off a few layers if you get warm. You should also bring a change of clothes, so you don’t have to stay wet all day.
Summer
Planning your rafting trip for the summer months is ideal. The weather is more predictable and perfect for taking an exhilarating ride down the Big Pigeon River. Summer heat makes the cool river water even better, but you should plan for maximum sun exposure.
Don’t forget your sunscreen, and be sure to reapply it frequently. You’ll also want to grab a hat to protect you from the sun, but remember that you’ll need to fit a helmet over your hat–consider a baseball cap or bucket hat instead of a sun hat.
You’ll also want to make sure you’re dressed for the season, but remember that you’re going to get wet! A swimsuit with a shirt and shorts over top is always a good option. Wear shoes that will hold up in wet and slippery conditions, like water shoes or sandals.
If you prep for the sun and warmth, summer can be the best season for a rafting trip. The water feels just right, and you won’t have to worry about unexpected chills!
Fall
Much of the same temperature advice for the spring season applies to fall as well.
In early fall, you can expect warm weather and pleasant rafting. As the days get cooler, however, you’ll want to grab extra clothes and layer appropriately. What feels like a warm fall day up at the parking lot can quickly become chilly once you’re immersed in a river rafting adventure.
Water Levels on the River
Another important detail when you’re deciding the best time to go white water rafting is the Upper Pigeon River’s water levels.
Too high, and you might be in for a wilder ride than you were expecting. Too low, and the rapids might disappear altogether. Which season has the best water levels for rafting? When the Big Pigeon River is concerned–it all depends on the dam.
Each river is different. Some rivers, like the Big Pigeon River, are dam controlled, meaning you’d need to check with us on scheduling your trip. We do, however, only schedule trips Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday & Saturday from Memorial Day through Labor Day, which is specifically chosen due to the dam release schedule. Based on lake levels, we may have trips available on other days as well.
Spring and Fall water levels
Generally, these two seasons offer a similar experience regarding rainfall and water levels, but it’s hard to guarantee forecasts. You might experience a slow and leisurely ride if it hasn’t rained in a while or get an exciting trip with plenty of rapids if it rained steadily or rained heavily recently.
Summer water levels
In the summer on the Upper Pigeon River, the water level depends on the scheduled water release. As you plan your trip, remember to check with the rafting company to ensure you take a trip that aligns with an excitement level that matches your experience and desire.
We highly recommend a summer rafting trip as dam releases are known during this time of year. If you’re looking for some thrills, excitement, and adventure, plan a summer rafting trip!
Rafting crowds
If you want to beat the crowds, consider a spring or fall trip.
The river will have fewer rafts on it, giving you more room to explore. In addition, your raft will get launched faster, meaning less time waiting.
However, if you’re worried about getting a little chilly, try a summer trip–while you’ll encounter more people, it’s still likely to be less crowded than during peak summer months.
When is the best time to go white water rafting?
While rafting is enjoyable almost any time of year, you will likely have the best experience during summer guaranteed water release days. Your best bet is to plan a trip between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Ultimately, the timing of your Big Pigeon River rafting experience depends on what works best for you and the group that will be rafting along with you.
Ready to raft, but not sure when to plan your trip? Each season offers its own excitement, from the steady summertime river to wild spring rapids!
No matter what time you choose to visit us here at Rafting in the Smokies, we’re confident that you’ll have a great time and make plenty of fun memories.
We look forward to seeing you on the river soon!
