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 […]
Smoky Mountains
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 […]
Favorite TripAdvisor reviews from 2017 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 […]
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 […]
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? Try our 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, […]
Wildflowers in the Smoky Mountains
While much can be said about the Great Smoky Mountains National Park’s diverse wildlife, the Smokies are also home to over 1,500 kinds of flowering plants and wildflowers. For this reason the park is sometimes called the “Wildflower National Park.” What can you expect to see this season? Each summer, we’re thrilled to see such […]
‘Midnight Hole’ in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Located just 1.4 miles into nearby Big Creek Trail (just a quick, 15 minute drive from Outdoor Rafting Adventures) is a deep, beautiful swimming hole known as Midnight Hole. An increasingly popular destination for both adults and families, Midnight Hole is definitely one of our more asked about spots in the Smoky Mountains. We definitely […]
Things are heating up — stay cool this summer with a white water rafting adventure!
With average summer temperatures of just below 90°, it gets pretty hot in East Tennessee this time of year. Don’t let that stop you! We’ve compiled a few ways you and your family can stay cool this summer when visiting the Smoky Mountains: Wear the right clothes Breathability is key — in other words, steer […]