Lower Pigeon River Rafting
A relaxed, family-friendly rafting trip with gentle rapids, bouncy waves, and scenic Smoky Mountain views. Perfect for kids ages 3+ and anyone looking for an easy, fun float near Pigeon Forge.
Why Choose Lower Pigeon River Rafting?
Lower Pigeon River rafting is one of Tennessee’s most popular family-friendly rafting adventures, offering gentle Class I-II rapids, splashy wave trains, and scenic mountain views. Perfect for paddlers ages 3 and up, this guided float trip combines outdoor fun, swimming opportunities, and relaxing stretches of river that everyone can enjoy.
Flowing along the edge of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Lower Pigeon River winds through a beautiful mountain corridor filled with forested slopes, wildlife, and stunning scenery. Led by NOC’s professionally trained river guides, families can enjoy four miles of gentle whitewater, fun stops for swimming and play, and an unforgettable day on the river.
For families with children ages eight and up looking for a more exciting trip, try the Upper Pigeon, which combines thrilling whitewater action with epic mountain scenery.
Rafting Trip Highlights
- Perfect for families, first-time rafters, and children ages 3 and up.
- Float four scenic miles of the Lower Pigeon River featuring gentle Class I-II rapids, swimming opportunities, relaxing stretches of water, and beautiful views of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Cherokee National Forest.
- Learn about the river, local history, and the surrounding mountains from NOC’s experienced rafting guides.
- Convenient to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. View our 3-Day Gatlinburg Itinerary for more dining, shopping, and attractions recommendations in the area!
What to Expect on the Lower Pigeon River
This fully guided Lower Pigeon River rafting trip lasts approximately 2.5 hours, including check-in, trip preparation, and shuttle time. You’ll spend about 1.5 hours on the river floating through gentle Class I-II rapids, calm stretches of water, and scenic mountain landscapes.
Check in 30 minutes before your trip at NOC’s Pigeon River Outpost in Hartford, Tennessee. After a brief safety orientation and video, you’ll be fitted with a personal flotation device (PFD) and paddle before heading to the river put-in directly from our outpost.
Once on the water, your experienced NOC guide will introduce basic paddling techniques and river safety before leading your group downstream. Along the way, you’ll enjoy gentle rapids, opportunities to splash and play, and beautiful views as the Lower Pigeon River winds alongside Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Cherokee National Forest.
Lower Pigeon River vs. Upper Pigeon River
The Lower Pigeon River offers a milder rafting experience with gentler waves, swimming, and scenic mountain views. It’s a great option for younger children, multi-generational groups, or guests who prefer a more relaxed river adventure.
The Upper Pigeon River is the best choice for guests looking for an action-packed adventure. With Class II–III+ rapids and nearly continuous action, it’s ideal for families with older kids, first-time thrill-seeking rafters, and guests looking for a high-energy river trip.
Available Discounts
Rinse & Repeat Discount
Raft more, save more! Book 2 NOC whitewater rafting trips on different rivers and save 10%, book 3 different rivers and save 15%, or book 4 different rivers and save 20% on your entire rafting reservation.Dates
Location
Before You Visit
Participants must be 3+ years of age. All minors (17 and under) must be accompanied by a participating adult during the activity.
Participants must meet age, weight, and chest size minimums and maximums specific to this trip. Please read our General Participant Eligibility & Recommendations for more information.
NOC provides all paddling equipment and PFDs for this guided adventure.
- Rafts
- Paddles
- Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
- Helmet
- Wet Suits & Splash Gear (by request)
Dress in clothes that can get wet, and wear shoes that will stay securely on your feet, with a back heel straps (flip flops are not allowed). Don’t forget dry clothes, shoes, and a towel for after your trip. There are changing rooms available.
- Clothing that can get wet
- Shoes that will stay securely on your feet
- In cooler weather, avoid wearing heavy cottons; wear synthetics and wool socks
*Please leave all personal belongings in your car, our guides will take your keys prior to the trip and hold them until your return.
Please bring your own water bottle. Drinks and snacks are available for purchase in the Outpost Store or in the NOC Gatlinburg retail store located just outside of the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains.
