Hiking Archives - Rafting in the Smokies

Easy Hikes in the Smokies

Posted May 1, 2022 by Gina Metcalf

The Great Smoky Mountains offer a chance for everyone to reconnect with nature, whether you’re a seasoned wilderness expert or a newcomer to outdoor adventures. If this is your first time hiking, or if you find yourself on a trip with young kids or older adults, it can be challenging to find trails that combine […]

Best Spring Hikes in the Smokies

Posted April 15, 2021 by Carly Turner

Spring is in the air! After several months of staying indoors, bundling up, and keeping close to the fire, it’s finally time to get back outside. What better way to welcome the warmer weather than a few hikes in the gorgeous Smoky Mountains? The area is always a great hiking destination, but spring may be […]

Three Websites for the Outdoor Enthusiast You Need to Visit

Posted March 6, 2019 by Carly Turner

If you’re a fan of the great outdoors, adventure, and learning more about travel ideas, we have some websites we recommend you bookmark for later use. You might also find some inspiration on what to do during the off-season. Outdoor Project https://www.outdoorproject.com/ This website offers an informative blog, which covers topics like adventure recommendations, stories […]

Tips for Backpacking in the Winter

Posted February 25, 2019 by Carly Turner

If you love the sound of fresh snow crunching beneath your feet, check out our suggestions for backpacking in the winter. Get good gearWhile price can be a factor, budget-friendly options are available. You can buy used or rent gear, or opt for heavier equipment that might be cheaper. Wear the right clothesMake sure if […]

Great Hiking Locations Nearby

Posted August 9, 2017 by Carly Turner

Rafting in the Smokies is located just on the outskirts of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Cherokee National Forest. As you raft on the Pigeon River, you’ll be immersed in the lovely scenery of the mountains. If you want to continue your outdoor adventure and get into the depths of the forest, there […]

Hiker’s Delight Beef Jerky Recipe

Posted May 5, 2012 by Gina Metcalf

Hiker’s Delight Beef Jerky Recipe This recipe for homemade beef jerky comes from the Mike, the husband of Rafting in the Smokies’ general manager Claudette Geoffrion, who’s been making this tasty treat for years! 1 beef flank steak, well trimmed ½ cup soy sauce Garlic salt Lemon pepper Cut steak lengthwise with grain into long […]

Recipe – Good 4 U Energy Bars

Posted February 13, 2012 by Gina Metcalf

This is a favorite of the RITS staff and keeps us energized through the cold winter season. This wholesome, homemade treat is especially yummy with some hot chocolate around the campfire. 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats 1 cup sliced almonds ½ cup sunflower seeds ½ cup wheat germ ¼ cup brown sugar, packed ½ cup […]

Winter Hiking & Camping Tips

Posted February 13, 2012 by Gina Metcalf

Keep hydrated – drink plenty of water – even if you’re not thirsty. Dry, winter air can dehydrate you quickly and water helps your body generate heat. Mixing your water with lemonade powder or Gatorade keeps it from freezing as quickly as plain ol’ water. Dress in layers: first a liner layer of long underwear […]

Winter Hiking and Camping Along Old Settlers Trail

Posted February 13, 2012 by Gina Metcalf

One of our favorite spots for winter camping is along the Old Settlers Trail in the Greenbrier section of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. While the mountaintops do offer spectacular views in the crisp winter air, we crave for some greenery amid the bare, gray branches of the trees. And you can find just […]

Geocaching on Family Adventure Island – The Excitement of the Hunt

Posted December 8, 2011 by Gina Metcalf

This is the only clue you’ll get…that the cache is actually hidden somewhere on the island. Many of you may ask, just what is geocaching? It’s part of a worldwide treasure hunting game using a GPS (Global Positioning System) device or a GPS-enabled smartphone. Participants in the game find their way to a specific set […]