Whitewater rafting can be an exciting adventure for those who have never tried it. No experience is necessary to raft in the Smokies. Each boat is guided by an experienced river guide. The Upper Pigeon Forge River has both class-II and class-IV rapids. Those 8 years old and up can experience the five-mile trip. The Lower Pigeon Forge River is an easy float trip that is six miles long; it's appropriate for those 3 years old and up. Rafting season runs from March through November and takes place rain or shine.
Rafting in the Smokies
813 East Parkway (321 North)
Gatlinburg, TN 37738
1-800-PRO-RAFT
raftinginthesmokies.com
Ober Ski Resort, also known as Ober Gatlinburg, consists of a moutaintop of fun and beauty. Visitors ride a skylift to reach Ober Gatlinburg. Once you reach the top, you are greeted with an amusement park and ski resort. Sports such as skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing are possible at Ober. An indoor ice arena is also available if you prefer to ice skate. The amusement park consists of a of chair swing, maze, bungee run, mini-golf , water rides and kiddie land. Ober Gatlinburg is open year-round.
Ober Gatlinburg
1001 Parkway
Gatlinburg, TN 37738
865-436-5423
obergatlinburg.com
CLIMB Works Canopy is the ultimate treetop zipline adventure. Take a treetop tour climbing treetop bridges, then ziplining from tree to tree. The entire activity lasts approximately 2 1/2 hours. While on tour, you cross three sky bridges, ride on nine ziplines and CLIMB Works offers one big surprise at the end. Tourists get to see the rich eco-system of the Smokies while on tour. Tourists are encouraged to wear close-fitting clothing and tie back long hair. An experienced guide helps you every step of the way through the tour.
CLIMB Works Canopy
155 Branam Hollow Rd.
Gatlinburg, TN 37738
865-325-8116
climbworkscanopy.com
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies has over 10,000 exotic sea creatures contained in room-sized aquariums for visitors to enjoy. Aquarium exhibits include Tropical Rainforest, Gallery of the Seas, Shark Lagoon, Coral Reef, Touch-a-Ray Bay, Discovery Center, Penguin Playhouse and Stingray Bay. Each exhibit contains exotic life for your sightseeing pleasure. Visitors can enjoy the Ripley's Aquarium 365 days a year.
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies
88 River Rd.
Gatlinburg, TN 37738
865-430-8808
gatlinburg.ripleyaquariums.com