The National Park Service is considering a plan that may double or even triple the entrance fee to some of America’s finest national parks. Visitors to the Grand Canyon, for example, will have to pay $70 for a single vehicle permit, up from an already substantial $30. We’re pleased to report that Tennessee’s national parks […]
ARTICLES
Here’s what we’re thankful for this year!
Thanksgiving is one of our favorite holidays — not only because of the food, friends, and football, but also because it allows us to reflect on the year we’ve had. It’s been a crazy year here in East Tennessee, and we have a lot of people to thank. The wonderful people of Gatlinburg We’ve never been […]
Dos and Don’ts of White Water Rafting
If you’ve never white water rafted before, you probably have a few questions about the experience. Here are a few simple dos and don’ts for your trip with Raft Outdoor Adventures: DON’T dress inappropriately Your clothing needs will vary based on the weather, but you should always be ready to get wet! We require secure […]
Here are our favorite TripAdvisor reviews from the 2017 rafting season
Another Summer in the Smoky Mountains has come and gone, and while we’re still offering white water rafting trips throughout the Fall, we’d like to reflect on some of our favorite customer reviews from the 2017 rafting season. Because the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the country, we […]
The many health benefits of spending time outdoors
Americans spend a lot of time indoors; in fact, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) contends that we spend a whopping 93% of our lives inside (87% in buildings and 6% in cars). This is alarming on two levels: first, it’s a shame that so many of us are missing out on wonderful experiences like hiking, […]
Now is the perfect time to visit the Smoky Mountains
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the country, and in our opinion the Fall is the best time to visit them. The changing colors, the wildlife — nothing compares to the sheer natural beauty of the Smokies. Here are a few ideas for your trip to the area […]
We’re moving to our Fall Schedule!
The water flow on the Pigeon River is controlled by Walters Dam, a hydroelectric dam located in Haywood County just a few miles upstream of our launch area. During the Summer (Mid-May through Mid-September), water is released from the dam on we call “guaranteed rafting days,” that is, every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday. It’s […]
Rafting Equipment 101
If you’ve never gone white water rafting before, you might be a little intimidated by all of the equipment. Don’t sweat it! Our friendly and well-trained guides will walk you through every step of the process. Here’s a brief rundown of everything you’ll need to get on the river. Helmet One of the most basic […]
Headed to Gatlinburg? Complete your trip with a white water rafting adventure
Since the wildfires in Gatlinburg last year, we’re often asked by out-of-town guests, “How’s Gatlinburg doing? Is it safe to visit?” We’re happy to say that, yes, Gatlinburg is absolutely back in business! The town is hopping with life and excitement, and we’re thrilled, now more than ever, to be a part of this resilient […]
Let us help you plan the perfect Smoky Mountains vacation this summer!
Planning a vacation to Gatlinburg or the Smoky Mountains this summer? We’d love to help you map out the perfect trip. At Raft Outdoor Adventures, we have relationships with some of the best attractions in East Tennessee — and a lot of them offer exclusive discounts to our white water rafters. Before you book anything else, […]