Upper Pigeon River

Dividing the Great Smoky Mountains in Gatlinburg and Cherokee National Forest in Johnson City, the Upper Pigeon River is one of the South’s most exciting Great Smoky Mountains whitewater rafting adventures. Experience steep granite cliffs, breathtaking views, and thrilling Class III and IV rapids with one of Big Bear’s Experienced whitewater rafting guides. Famous rapids on this section include Powerhouse, Vegematic, Lost Guide, Double Reaction, and Accelerator.

Your trip begins upon arrival at our outpost in Hartford, TN. You will check-in, listen to our thorough trip & safety talk, then you will meet your guide. Your guide will then assist you with your gear, and answer any questions or concerns that you may have. Then, it’s just a short 10-minute bus ride up to the river put-in at Walter’s Powerhouse located on the Tennessee – North Carolina state line. 

• 5 miles of Class III and IV Rapids
• 2 hour trip
• Fully Guided
• NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY
• Minimum age/weight: 8 years old or 70 pounds