Whitewater Rafting Near
Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge TN
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Ocoee River Rafting Near Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge Tennessee
Looking for the best whitewater rafting near Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee? The Ocoee River is one of the top outdoor adventures in the Smoky Mountains, drawing visitors from Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, and across the Southeast for unforgettable whitewater rafting experiences.
Located in the heart of the Cherokee National Forest, the Ocoee River is home to the famous 1996 Olympic whitewater course and offers some of the best rafting in Tennessee. With thrilling Class III and IV rapids, scenic mountain views, and guided rafting trips for beginners and experienced adventurers alike, Ocoee River rafting is the perfect day trip from Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge.
Every year, millions of visitors travel to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge to experience the Great Smoky Mountains, Dollywood, hiking trails, mountain cabins, shopping, and family attractions. Many travelers also add Ocoee whitewater rafting to their Smoky Mountain vacation itinerary because it delivers an adrenaline-filled outdoor experience unlike anything else in East Tennessee.
Whether you’re vacationing in Gatlinburg, staying in a cabin in Pigeon Forge, camping near the Smokies, or exploring East Tennessee, rafting the Ocoee River is one of the top things to do near Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge during spring, summer, and fall.
From scenic mountain drives to roaring rapids, the Ocoee offers the perfect mix of adventure and natural beauty. Visitors can also enjoy nearby RV parks, campgrounds, hiking, mountain biking, fishing, kayaking, rock climbing, and scenic overlooks throughout the Cherokee National Forest region.
Why Choose Ocoee River Rafting Near Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge?
- Only about 1.5 to 2 hours from Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge
- Home of the 1996 Olympic whitewater rafting events
- Over 20 exciting Class III & IV rapids
- One of the most popular whitewater rafting rivers in Tennessee
- Great for families, groups, beginners, and thrill-seekers
- Scenic rafting trips through the Cherokee National Forest
- Full Ocoee & Middle Ocoee rafting trips available
- Guided whitewater rafting tours with experienced river guides
- Easy day trip from the Great Smoky Mountains
- Raft with trusted outfitters like Cherokee Rafting
Things To Do Near Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge & The Ocoee River
When visiting the Smoky Mountains, many travelers combine whitewater rafting with other popular East Tennessee attractions, including:
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- Dollywood
- Pigeon Forge attractions & dinner shows
- Gatlinburg mountain coasters & skylifts
- Cabin rentals & RV camping
- Hiking & waterfall adventures
- Ziplining & off-road trails
- Fishing, kayaking, & outdoor recreation

Ocoee River Rafting Trips – Exciting Whitewater Trips for All Levels BOOK A OCOEE RIVER
WHITEWATER RAFTING TOUR CLICK ON ANY TRIP BELOW THATS RIGHT FOR YOU!
3 Hour Middle Ocoee River Trip
THE MIDDLE RIVER
5 Hour Full Ocoee River Trip with Lunch
THE FULL RIVER
5 Hour High Adventure Rafting Trip
HIGH ADVENTURE
Voted Ocoee River Whitewater Rafting – Tennessee’s #1 Rafting Adventure
Awarded TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence consistently for the past 10 years! Selected by National Geographic as an official destination for Geo-tourism. If there’s any question which rafting company to use for your Ocoee River white water adventure, you’ve found the right place. Grab a paddle, snap your buckles, let’s go! Click the logos to see what they say about Cherokee Rafting!


