Pigeon River: White Water Rafting Upper Section with Gear

Summary

White water rafting through Smoky Mountains gorge with gear and guide

You’ll feel your pulse jump as you paddle down the Upper Pigeon River’s wildest stretch with a local guide leading every rapid. From gearing up at Big Creek Expeditions to that first icy splash, every moment is hands-on — and yes, you’ll probably laugh at yourself along the way. All equipment is included so you can just show up ready to get soaked.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I was nervous pulling into Big Creek Expeditions — you could hear the river before you even saw it, kind of roaring behind the trees. Our guide, Matt, handed me a helmet and life jacket that still smelled faintly of river water and sunscreen. He checked all our straps twice (maybe three times for me, since I kept fiddling), then herded us onto this old bus for the quick ride up to the launch point. The air inside was sticky and full of chatter; everyone seemed to be sizing up their paddles like they were about to duel.

The Upper Pigeon River doesn’t waste time — as soon as we pushed off, cold spray hit my face and my heart started pounding in that way where you’re not sure if you’re scared or thrilled or both. Matt shouted something about “lean in!” right before we dropped into our first rapid. I got a mouthful of river (tastes like rocks and summer weeds, if you’re wondering) but somehow managed not to fall out. There’s this moment when you look up and see the Smoky Mountains rising on both sides, misty and green, and for a second everything goes quiet except for the slap of paddles on water.

I tried to say “Pigeon” in my best Tennessee accent — Matt cracked up so hard he almost missed giving us directions for the next set of rapids. You get used to trusting your guide fast out here; there’s no way I’d have made it through those twists without him calling out moves. My arms were jelly by halfway through but honestly, I didn’t care. The sun kept breaking through clouds overhead, turning the spray gold for a second at a time. I still think about that light sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — White Water Rafting on Pigeon River

• Drive 45 minutes to Big Creek Expeditions
• Experience Upper Pigeon River rafting trip
• Enjoy panoramic views of Great Smoky Mountains
• Cool off in the river during summer heat

Top questions

How long is the drive from Gatlinburg to Big Creek Expeditions?

It’s about 45 minutes by car from Gatlinburg to Big Creek Expeditions.

Is equipment provided for white water rafting on the Pigeon River?

Yes, life jacket, helmet, and paddle are included with your booking.

Do I need previous rafting experience for this trip?

No prior experience is required; guides will instruct you before starting.

How far is the bus ride from check-in to launch point?

The shuttle from Big Creek Expeditions to the river launch point takes about 10 minutes.

Is lunch included on this white water rafting tour?

No, lunch is not included on this trip.

Are there any health restrictions for this rafting tour?

This tour isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes all necessary equipment — life jacket, helmet, paddle — plus a personal guide who double-checks everything before you hop on a short shuttle ride from Big Creek Expeditions to where your white water rafting trip begins on the Upper Pigeon River.