#1 Rafting Outpost in the Smokies

#1 Rafting River in America

Splash into the Smokies’ ONLY hub with both top-notch Tubing (Townsend) and heart-pumping Whitewater Rafting (Hartford - near Gatlinburg)! River Rat specializes in making lasting memories in the heart of the Smokies. Family-owned and operated since 1995, our business is rooted in providing a positive, unforgettable experience for everyone.

No experience necessary... LET'S RAFT!

Adventure-lovers, this one's for you. Our Upper Rafting Adventure combines class III and IV rapids with the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains and the Pisgah National Forest for an unforgettable river-bound expedition (ages 8 and older).

Once our guests try out our Xtreme rafts, they never go back! Take it up a notch and enjoy all the thrills the upper section of the river has to offer in our specialized Xtreme rafts (ages 8+). Our Xtreme Upper Rafting Adventure explores the same route in our specialized, smaller rafts. These boats' smaller size provides rafters more agility to experience the full excitement of every rapid.

Rafting with young ones, or just want to take it easy? The Lower Rafting Adventure has plenty of rapids to satisfy your craving for excitement, but mellow enough for even the youngest thrill-seekers with gorgeous mountain views on class I and II rapids (ages 3 and up).

Our team of highly experienced guides are ready to uniquely cater your rapids expedition to the adventure type that you’re looking for. Take your pick of half or full-day expeditions at the River Rat, ranging from serene to extreme.

River Rat Whitewater is the closest rafting to Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and Knoxville. We’re located just 25 miles from Gatlinburg and 30 miles from Pigeon Forge.

Whitewater Outpost amenities:

Grab-It-N'-Growl food truck, draft beer, picnic area, changing rooms, hot showers, bus parking, and Gift Shop

Also available:

Day-cations (full day of rafting) and Whitewater Rafting/Tubing combo packages