Smoky Mountain River Tubing

There is nothing more fun in the summer then floating down the Smoky Mountains on a raft or in a tube. My husband remembers the 'good old days' , when as a kid, he and his friends would carry their own inter tubes to the mountains, hiking up and floating down for free. One can still bring their own inter tube and float down for free, but the easiest way is to visit an outfitter that provides tubes, life vest , a shuttle and everything else needed to tube down the river. I am basically a water rat at heart , so while there are several outfitters offering rafting and floats, I always choose Smoky Mountain River Rat. River Rat is located on the Townsend side of the mountains, 15 miles from Pigeon Forge and 45 miles from Gatlinburg. The scenic loop and Cades Cove is only 9 miles away and is a popular camping destination for families. River Rat has over 500 tubes and also offers kayaks for those so inclined. River Rat is open 7 days a week May through September from 10 until 5. Tube rental, unlimited shuttle , life jacket and tax is only $13.00 per person with children 5 and under for free. Group rates are available. Kayak rentals run $15 and include 1 trip on the shuttle bus. Additional trips on the shuttle for kayaks are $5.00. Tubing is great for all ages and one need not know how to swim. Great grandmothers to little ones 2 years and up float down the 1 1/2 mile gently flowing river. The River Rat also offers a second choice designated for children 5 years and older that is a little swifter and last 1 hour. Swim wear is appropriate to wear , but many choose to wear shorts and tee shirts. Tennis or water shoes are a good choice because the rocks one encounters along the way can be hard on ones feet. River Rat has picnic tables, changing rooms, showers and bathrooms on site. Reservations are not necessary but one can save time by visiting their web site at www.smokymtriverrat.com , printing and filling out the forms needed before the float. Reservations may be made online or by calling 865-448-8888.