Whether you’ve been white water rafting before or it’s your first experience, you can rest assured that you’ll have the time of your life! From smooth rides down the river to racing forward over obstacles with tons of splashes, there are a variety of rafting trips for you to select. To help you make the most of your experience, here are 5 tips for white water rafting in the Smoky Mountains.
1. Understand Rapid “Classes”
You may have noticed that the websites of white water rafting companies frequently refer to a class system to describe their rafting experiences. It’s important for you to understand this system before booking your trip so that you can select the correct one for your group. Class I rapids are small and relatively easy to get around. Class II rapids usually have quicker waters, as well as open passages between rocks and ledges. Class III rapids feature irregular waves and tighter passages. Class IV rapids are more challenging with large waves, and power rapids. Each class of rapids is different from the next, but they are all fun in their own way!
2. Choose What Works for Your Group
It’s important to consider the group that you are going white water rafting in the Smoky Mountains with. If you have younger, and less experienced rafters, your ideal trip might be one with a lower class of rapids. If you and the other members of your group have done this before, you may want to select a trip with a higher class.
3. Remember the Sunscreen
Whether the sun is shining or it’s cloudy outside, you should always wear sunscreen! Layering it on before your rafting adventure will help to prevent you from having a nasty sunburn for the rest of your vacation. As you will most likely be getting wet, it’s a smart idea to invest in a sunscreen that is also waterproof.
4. Bring a Dry Towel and Clothes
It’s loads of fun to rush through rapids with friends and family, and in doing so you’ll probably get splashed quite a bit. We want you to have a fantastic experience from start to finish. So, it’s important for you to come prepared for both before and after your trip. The first step is to make sure that you’re dressed in clothes that you don’t mind getting a little wet. When you’re done white water rafting, you’ll want a nice, dry towel to wrap up in and a dry pair of clothes to change into.
5. Don’t Be Nervous
White water rafting is fun for the whole family, and there is no need to be nervous about your trip. There are also usually trained guides that accompany you and your group to ensure that you all have a safe and enjoyable ride. So, take a deep breath and get ready for a fantastic experience!
Hopefully, these tips have made you feel more prepared to go white water rafting in the Smoky Mountains. Be sure to check out all the other fun things to do in the Smokies so that you can have an unforgettable trip!