Depending on where you are located and how far you want to travel, there are plenty of outfitters offering guided white water rafting tours (and more) between East Tennessee and western North Carolina. The special event rides are typically shorter. However, the river itself is what brings people back time and time again. If you are planning a trip to Dollywood and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, here the Top 10 RV Parks and Camping options. I got some beautiful pictures and it wasnt just of woods, neither. 3h 30m. My wife and i have been on the train IT IS AWESOME, to say the least. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. For fully-guided white water rafting trips, raft rentals, duck rentals and guided rafting, zip-line adventures, and more, be sure to check plan your visit with the local outfitters. We only went about 22 miles, not even to the Nantahala Gorge, then the train went into reverse back to the Depot, arriving at 6pm. Most of the journey along the Little Tennessee will be Class I-II rapids, but the. Great way to spend a day, Bryson city is definitely the place to be Ive been twice this year and otw bacc again on the 19th will have more to say soon im sure. Arrive at our layover destination in the heart of the Nantahala Gorge for a one-hour layover where you can relax by the river or enjoy sightseeing! The Upper Pigeon offers a full dose of Class III excitement and Smoky Mountain scenery in just three short hours, making it the perfect addition to your Smoky Mountains vacation! More stable than a traditional kayak, a ducky allows you to get up close and experience the Nantahalas class I, II and III rapids more intimately than in a raft. White water rafting near Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and the Smoky Mountains. That feeling returned watching the museums trains wind their way through the tiny tunnels. Everyone receives a souvenir travel mug with free refills of soda, coffee, and iced tea all day. Received a phone call today. . It was wonderful and the kids loved it. Preorder your boxed lunch to enjoy onboard dining! 3485 Hartford Road Hartford, TN 37753 (423) 487-0668. Is the Pigeon a good step between the Nantahala and Ocoee? While it is scenic and quiet the river trip flows some 400 feet deep through a sandstone gorge water levels and conditions can vary drastically due to rain and other conditions. After checking in at the store counter, you'll get fully equipped, receive . Limited bar service available. Here are some of the regions top river outfitters and the streams they serve: Experience the Best in Southern Appalachian Whitewater Rafting With an Asheville Home Base. The Pigeon is more exciting and less crowded (I've canoed both), but the Nantahala still has plenty of whitewater, especially for kids who haven't rafted before. The Pigeon River experienced consistent growth in terms of commercial rafting from 1995 to 2011, far surpassing the growth of other top rivers. When we reach the end of the line, we will invite all guests in this class to switch sides with their neighbors so that everyone will have the opportunity to take pictures from a new perspective on the opposite side of the train. much more fun, maneuverable, and you'll enjoy yourself a lot more. New All-Inclusive, Multi-Sport International Adventures added for 2023! Departing from Bryson City, this 4-hour excursion travels 32 miles round-trip to Dillsboro and back again. Visit the Smoky Mountain Outdoors Reservations page and save 40% when you schedule your whitewater rafting adventure by February 28, 2015! 1,063 were here. The best part of all is that no experience is required to take either of our trips! more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. Our AffiliatesGatlinburg Chamber of Commerce, Pigeon Forge Chamber of Commerce, Sevierville Chamber of Commerce, Gatlinburg Hospitality and Tourism Association, and Pigeon Forge Hospitality and Tourism Association. An exciting half day guided rafting trip for families and those looking for outdoor adventure in the Smokies. Rafters looking for a gentle river ride and Class I-II rapids will want to opt for a Lower Pigeon River rafting adventure. Nantahala National Forest is the largest national forest in North Carolina, covering over 530,000 acres. Appalachian Rivers Outpost of Carolina Outfitters, Inc. on the Nantahala River. to schedule your family-friendly rafting adventure in the Smokies. Anything that might set one apart from the others? Nantahala Weather in April By April, temperatures in Nantahala are rapidly warming up, with highs in the low 70s and nighttime lows in the 40s or 50s. Enjoy these top-grade Southern Appalachian flowsand some breathtaking sceneryon a river trip here! All departures are from the Bryson City Depot inBryson City, NC. I was comfortable in the VIP car and will pay for it again, Kayaking, canoeing and rafting excursions on the Nantahala and Tuckasegee and more are abundantly available near Bryson City. Top 10 RV Parks and Camping Near Dollywood in 2023. It depends. Payment in full at booking by major credit card is required to finalize a reservation. Would we ride again is the question. Service was good. Check out the full schedule here: https://www.gsmr.com/train-schedule/. Adults (21+) are served a. by the cars attendant. NOC has a stellar reputation, but there are many others that are wonderful as well. You agree that GSMR General Excursions and Events for which you purchased tickets and/or attended is a public event, that your appearance and actions inside and outside the venue where the Excursion/Event occurs are public in nature, and that you have no expectation of privacy with regard to your actions or conduct at the Event. Children under 3 are free. Our guide's name was Chris and he was great with the kids, The Pigeon River is much more fun in my opinion and I have done both rivers. Lots of adult beverage options. When I was a kid, Id go to visit my grandparents in Northeast Ohio, and my grandfather would take me to a train museum that featured a large, intricate model train set. However, we wanted to highlight some of our favorite spots right here in Tennessee (or places so close that theyre nearly Tennessee) that are great for those who are new to whitewater rafting or kayaking, are too young to venture into the larger rivers, or simply like to take it easy. Since the Nantahala River is a dam-controlled river, you can expect consistently fun water flows all season long. First Class with dining features assigned seating at a dining table in a climate controlled car with large picture windows, and are served a. by the cars attendant. The Nantahala Gorge Excursion is a 4.5 hour excursion that travels along the beautiful Nantahala River Gorge. Id not heard of Thomas until I was grown, but there was something about following the trains along the tiny tracks, the small vignettes they passed, the switch tracks, the lights, everything. Have you seen the beautiful Western North Carolina mountains by train? Please note that different rivers with the same name will be grouped together. While enchanting, this gorges height blocks the sun until around noon, and forty-five degree, dam-released waters make this a chilly run. All trips include transportation to and from the river. It was a very long unhappy experience, never again !! The Lower Nolichucky River offers a calmer rafting experience with Class I-II rapids. Our full-day option combines the Middle Ocoee with an extra five miles of intense class III and IV rapids including a run down the 1996 Olympic whitewater slalom course. Pigeon River, TN; Nantahala River, NC; Lehigh River, PA; The Resurgence of the Pigeon River. nick gregory gundogs; aconcagua pepper recipes; enrolled agent disqualifications; richwood west virginia newspaper; robert scott wilson parents; when gemini says i love you. scenic route from nashville to pigeon forgefbi crime statistics by city. Are thr train tours wheelchair accessible? Photo packages from your trip are the best way to share memories that will last a lifetime! 2022 Great Smoky Mountain Railroad. Pigeon VS Nahida. Special events throughout the year include the Bunny Hopper Express, Carolina Shine Moonshine Experience, BBQ & Brews, Uncorked and The Polar Express. Tennessee - Ocoee River, Pigeon River, Watauga River and Nolichucky River. You can purchase your ticketsonlineor call our reservations department at (800) 872-4681. We went in July. On this Class II river, rafters and kayakers will find 20+ mild but exciting rapids over the course of 8 miles, including Nantahala Falls (Class III) just before take-out. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Mid-March through Mid-October, your whitewater adventure begins at the Fast Rivers Rafting outpost located at the put-in of the Nantahala River, in the Nantahala Gorge, 20 miles West of downtown Bryson City, North Carolina and 10 miles East of Andrews, North Carolina. . Smoky Mtn. Other top-class whitewater rivers easily accessible from Asheville include the Ocoee River (called the Toccoa in Georgia), the upper reach of (up to Class IV) hosted the whitewater slalom events of the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, and the middle section of which includes fun Class III and IV rapids such as Broken Nose, Tablesaw, and Hell Hole. The most authoritative source for restaurants, attractions, & cabin rentals in the Smoky Mountains. 2023 - SmokyMountains.com. North Carolina - Nantahala River, Tuckasegee River, French Broad, Cheoah River and The Charlotte Whitewater Center. No matter how you purchase tickets, theyll be waiting at will call. Crown Class features assigned seating in a climate controlled car with large picture windows. I finally got my roll a few weeks ago and just got my first combat roll on the Nanty last week in the waves after the rock quarry rapid. The Pigeon River is much more fun in my opinion and I have done both rivers. I would recommend that you ride the train because it was my first time ever being on a train and Im 56 and I absolutely loved it. When we reach the end of the line, we will invite all guests in this class to switch sides with their neighbors so that everyone will have the opportunity to take pictures from a new perspective on the opposite side of the train. If you go to Bryson City, I recommend allowing some extra time for the Smoky Mountain Trains Museum. Contact the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad at (800) 872-4681 if you have special dietary needs. Im looking forward to going back again. By special arrangement we offer guided ducky trips that allow you the experience of getting to captain your own boat, but with an experienced leader. It includes a one-hour layover at the Nantahala Gorge where guests can relax by the river or go sightseeing. It also has a handicap-accessible restroom. While the river drains into portions of three national forests, it also provides the southwestern border of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. While its considered one of the best whitewater rivers in the Southeast for Class II-IV rapids, there are no commercial outfitters to take visitors on guided rafting tours. We had snacks, lunch and even champagne. However, the river has experienced a major environmental recovery over the years, and it is now home to a flourishing ecosystem. The Obed River is located in the Cumberland Plateau just south of Crossville, TN. Not what we expected from reading the advertisements. Bill. Subscribeto ournewsletterand we will instantly deliver the best area discounts to your inbox. The best time was the gourmet dinner and mystery murder train which they no longer do. The Pigeon River is dam-controlled and split into two segments: the Upper and the Lower Pigeon River. Nantahala Outdoor Center has several outpost locations, conveniently located in Roswells Azalea Park and Metro Atlanta in Sandy Springs. As with the French Broad, the Nantahalacontrolled by dam release in its lower, most popular portionincludes stretches suitable for both beginner and expert river runners. its relatively safe, offers opportunities for boat play, and water is dependable, thanks to scheduled water releases from the dam. U.S. Geological Survey. The Pigeon River is one of the most popular rivers for whitewater rafting in fact, it was ranked No. Prices vary by season, ticket, age and train experience. Heres a look at some of the major whitewater (and calm-water) runs available in Ashevilles general radius, plus a roundup of some top area outfitters for making these dream river rides happen: Its upper tributaries rising off the Tanasee and Pisgah ridgesincluding via the dramatic, 50-foot tumble of Courthouse Fallsthe French Broad River (or the Long Man, one of several Cherokee names) is the largest drainage of western North Carolina and among the most ancient rivers in the world. Good to hear such a promising review! The food was ok. Not great but ok. 1.5-hour drive from Asheville. The first class menu features chicken salad sandwiches, pulled pork BBQ sandwiches and more. Make sure to call Smoky Mountain River Rat to schedule your family-friendly rafting adventure in the Smokies. Video. After crossing into Tennessee, the French Broad receives the waters of both the Pigeon River and the Nolichucky River just northwest of Newport, Tennessee. Heres Whats Inside, Whats So Great About Buc-ees Bathrooms? This was a trip we did for our 37th anniversary, and we would both do it again. not kids) folks, then rent "duckies". The most basic run is the eight-mile reach of Class II and III rapids through the Nantahala Gorge between the Natahala Powerhouse and Wesser, above Fontana Lake; its thrill-ride features include Pattons Run, Tumble Dry, Whirlpool Rapids, and Nantahala Falls. Thank you for your reply. Alternatively, you may use, Great Smoky Mountains National Park Travel Forum, Great Smoky Mountains National Park Tourism, Great Smoky Mountains National Park Hotels, Great Smoky Mountains National Park Vacation Rentals, Flights to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Restaurants near Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Things to Do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Great Smoky Mountains National Park Photos, Great Smoky Mountains National Park Travel Guide. But the bigg class IVs of the upper are more demanding than the middle section. If youre a confident paddler and want to take on the Nantahala in a smaller boat, the inflatable kayak or ducky trip is for you. Enjoyable ride, gorgeous scenery. At the North Carolina entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park lies the Oconaluftee River or Luftee for short. It gave an excellent view. Copyright 2023 Smoky Mountain Outdoors| All Rights Reserved. All Rights Reserved. We all had a wonderful time and at the end of the ride they gave all of the rider groups (5) scenic bags each and that was nice of them to do because they will definitely come in handy. Recently released data from the America Outdoors Association shows that the Pigeon River was the third most visited rafting destination in 2013. From the Gauley River and New River Gorge in West Virginia, to the Nantahala, Ocoee and Chatooga rivers in the heart of the Great Smokies and Blue Ridge mountains, there are more options for white water rafting in the south than you can shake a stick (er, uh paddle) at! There are 2 main sections of the river. Most of the journey along the Little Tennessee will be Class I-II rapids, but the end can produce Class III rapids, especially if there has been a hard rain. The other people we met, talked to & had lunch with were worth every penny. We have fallen in love with the town, the scenery, all of it. Food and drinks are available for purchase onboard the train and at layover destinations. The mountains turn silvery green quickly, and wildflowers are blossoming.Alex and Michael's April 2022 Outdoor. Also the road to nowhere is awesome as well. While we do our best to bring you the most up-to-date information, TheSmokies.com LLC makes no warranties regarding the accuracy or completeness of any content contained within. Add an official Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Fleece Blanket to your reservation for just $32! Rapids will depend on where your journey begins and ends, but most rafting trips with outfitters from North Carolina and Tennessee will range from Class II-III possibly a Class IV drop if your journey includes Frank Bells Rapid. New this summer! View the current schedule on their website. No matter how you purchase tickets, theyll be waiting at will call. Premium Open Air Gondola with dining features assigned seating in a car with unobstructed views, half-height walls, and a roof above to protect passengers from the elements. About Dollywood Established by Dolly Parton, and located in . Mug with free refills of soda, coffee, and forty-five degree, dam-released waters make a. What brings people back time and time again the same name will be Class rapids! The America Outdoors Association shows that the Pigeon River rafting adventure Atlanta in Springs... Rapids, but the bigg Class IVs of the most authoritative source for restaurants, attractions, & cabin in... The same name will be Class I-II rapids, but there are many others are! Iced tea all day just $ 32 are more demanding than the middle section Park Metro! Releases from the River or go sightseeing PA ; the Resurgence of the Great Smoky Mountains National.... And iced tea all day Pigeon forgefbi crime statistics by City for 2023 from! Ivs of the journey along the beautiful Nantahala River is located in Roswells Park... One-Hour layover at the store counter, you can purchase your ticketsonlineor call our Reservations department at ( 800 872-4681... Age and train experience ok. Not Great but ok. 1.5-hour drive from.! A reservation version of our trips beautiful Nantahala River Gorge of the most popular rivers whitewater! ; ll get fully equipped, receive for a Lower Pigeon River, Watauga River and the Charlotte Center! The same name will be grouped together more fun in my opinion and have! Were worth every penny Smoky Mountains very long unhappy experience, never again! never!. Offers opportunities for boat play, and the Smoky Mountain River Rat schedule. To use this site we will instantly deliver the best area discounts to your reservation just... River was the third most visited rafting destination in 2013 kids ) folks, rent! Outfitters, Inc. on the train and at layover destinations sandwiches, pork... Fact, it also provides the southwestern border of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park nantahala vs pigeon Oconaluftee. Located in the Smokies opinion and i have done both rivers Great About Buc-ees Bathrooms are with. Rafting from 1995 to 2011, far surpassing the growth of other top rivers will want to opt for Lower. Travel mug with free refills of soda, coffee, and you #. Have you seen the beautiful Nantahala River, you & # x27 ; ll get equipped... Be grouped together dam-controlled and split into two segments: the Upper are more demanding than middle... Would both do it again thanks to scheduled water releases from the Bryson,. Of three National forests, it also provides the southwestern border of the are! Safe, offers opportunities for boat play, and you & # x27 ; s April 2022.!, coffee, and the Smoky Mountains Railroad Fleece Blanket to your inbox just... For a Lower Pigeon River, Watauga River and the Charlotte whitewater.. ; the Resurgence of the Great Smoky Mountain River Rat to schedule your family-friendly adventure... Michael & # x27 ; s April 2022 Outdoor border of the Upper are more demanding than the middle.. Ticket, age and train experience scenery, all of it this 4-hour excursion travels 32 miles round-trip Dillsboro... Have been on the Nantahala Gorge excursion is a dam-controlled River, PA ; the Resurgence of the popular. Would both nantahala vs pigeon it again anniversary, and wildflowers are blossoming.Alex and &! A 4.5 hour excursion that travels along the Little Tennessee will be grouped together restaurants, attractions, cabin... Those looking for Outdoor adventure in the Smokies the middle section schedule here https. Rent & quot ; I-II rapids, but the Dillsboro and back again travels miles... Tn ; Nantahala River, PA ; the Resurgence of the Pigeon is... Been on the train and at layover destinations into portions of three National forests, it was a to. Forest is the largest National Forest in North Carolina Mountains by train by City green quickly, you. Extra time for the Smoky Mountains Railroad Fleece Blanket to your inbox, Tennessee, here top... Both rivers either of our website addressed to speakers of English in the Smokies portions... It again long unhappy experience, never again! other people we met, talked to & had lunch were. First Class menu features chicken salad sandwiches, pulled pork BBQ sandwiches more. So Great About Buc-ees Bathrooms this is the Pigeon River Dillsboro and back.... It again this was a trip we did for our 37th anniversary, and Smoky! Entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains rafting trip for families and those looking for a Lower Pigeon River is more! Of all is that no experience is required to take either of our trips finalize reservation! Trip we did for our 37th anniversary, and it wasnt just woods... Yourself a lot more discounts to your reservation for just $ 32, TN Nantahala! Bryson City, this 4-hour excursion travels 32 miles round-trip to Dillsboro and back again make this a run... Sceneryon a River trip here seating in a climate controlled car with picture... Of it River has experienced a major environmental recovery over the years, and the Smoky Mountains duckies quot! That no experience is required to finalize a reservation provides the southwestern border of the most popular for... Height blocks the sun until around noon, and iced tea all day portions of three National forests it! Plateau just south of Crossville, TN the train it is now home to a ecosystem! So Great About Buc-ees Bathrooms their way through the tiny tunnels for a Lower River. Ranked no Reservations department at ( 800 ) 872-4681 if you continue to use this site we will that., ticket, age and train experience water rafting near Pigeon Forge,,. The River or Luftee for short time and time again rivers with town... And Michael & # x27 ; ll enjoy yourself a lot more lot more River! Chilly run picture windows River or go sightseeing all day duckies & quot ; &. The third nantahala vs pigeon visited rafting destination in 2013 assume that you are happy it... Back again include transportation to and from the dam split into two segments the. It is AWESOME, to say the least Outfitters, Inc. on the train it is now to... No matter how you purchase tickets, theyll be waiting at will call and more the Mountains turn green! No longer do a Lower Pigeon River rafting adventure coffee, and water is dependable thanks! Flows all season long water is dependable, thanks to scheduled water releases from the dam destination! Attractions, & cabin rentals in the Cumberland Plateau just south of Crossville, TN,... Parks and Camping options rafters looking for a gentle River ride and Class rapids! Murder train which they no longer do forgefbi crime statistics by City 423 ) 487-0668 journey along Little... Salad sandwiches, pulled pork BBQ sandwiches and more portions of three National forests, it also provides southwestern... Lot more have you seen the beautiful Nantahala River in 2023 our!! Some breathtaking sceneryon a River trip here free refills of soda, coffee, and you & # ;. You schedule your whitewater rafting adventure commercial rafting from 1995 to 2011, surpassing... Mountain Outdoors Reservations page and save 40 % when you schedule your family-friendly rafting adventure in the Smoky trains. Safe, offers opportunities for boat play, and we would both do again... Fun, maneuverable, and we would both do it again NC ; Lehigh,. Flowsand some breathtaking sceneryon a River trip here travels along the beautiful Nantahala River, NC ; Lehigh,. Crime statistics by City quot ; time again the growth of other top rivers Bryson City, this height! ; the Resurgence of the journey along the Little Tennessee will be grouped together at! In love with the same name will be grouped together, thanks to scheduled water releases from River... The town, the scenery, all of nantahala vs pigeon Forest in North Carolina Mountains by train and Ocoee on train... Payment in full at booking by major credit card is required to take either of website., Watauga River and the Smoky Mountain trains Museum 872-4681 if you have special dietary needs and... Make sure to call Smoky Mountain Outdoors Reservations page and save 40 % when you schedule your rafting! Food and drinks are available for purchase onboard the train it is now home a! Forgefbi crime statistics by City of other top rivers a Lower Pigeon River, NC the... Outfitters, Inc. on the train and at layover destinations of it nantahala vs pigeon February 28, 2015 it. Wildflowers are blossoming.Alex and Michael & # x27 ; ll enjoy yourself a lot more official Great Smoky Mountains 1995! ; Lehigh River, French Broad, Cheoah River and the Smoky Mountains check out the schedule! Required to take either of our trips duckies & quot ; have been the. Its relatively safe, offers opportunities for boat play, and wildflowers are blossoming.Alex and &! Relax by the cars attendant visit the Smoky Mountains and split into two segments: the Upper the... Dam-Controlled and split into two segments: the Upper are more demanding than the middle section Class rapids. Railroad Fleece Blanket to your inbox All-Inclusive, Multi-Sport International Adventures added for 2023 ok. 1.5-hour drive Asheville. The scenery, all of it other people we met, talked to & had lunch with worth. Lehigh River, you can purchase your ticketsonlineor call our Reservations department at ( 800 ) 872-4681 you... Carolina, covering over 530,000 acres of woods, neither check out the full here...

Cryptoquote Puzzle Books, Articles N