Spend Your Summer on a Whitewater Rafting Adventure
By Jim Watson © 2012, All Rights Reserved

The heat index is soaring, and the humidity makes even a short
trip outside feel like you’ve stepped into a sauna. From Chicago
to Miami, folks are looking for ways to stay cool this summer.
Sounds like a perfect reason to plan a whitewater rafting trip in
the mountains of Tennessee.

The Splendor of the Great Smoky Mountains

There are lots of ways to enjoy the glorious scenery that
surrounds Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, TN. Hiking trails
crisscross the mountains and scenic turnouts line the roads and
highways. You can even ride the aerial tram up to Ober Gatlinburg
for a breathtaking view from the top.

But if you want to really experience nature while putting a
little excitement into your vacation, there’s no better choice
than a whitewater rafting trip.

Your rafting adventure will carry you through miles of unspoiled
wilderness where the air is scented with wildflowers and traffic
noise is replaced by the non-stop twitter of birds. Overhead, a
brilliant blue sky unmarred by smog or pollution peeks through
the canopy of emerald green and is reflected in the crystal clear
waters of a Tennessee river.

Maneuver your raft through a series of twisting, turning rapids
and you’ll soon forget the heat of summer as the cool water
cascades over you. Later, you’ll have a chance to dry off when
you stop for a picnic lunch along the shore. Find a flat rock and
spread out to relax for a few minutes before you’re off again to
enjoy the amazing beauty that greets you around every bend of the
river.

The Perfect Trip No Matter Your Age or Skill Level

Don’t worry if you’re not a pro. The area offers plenty of
whitewater packages tailored to your skill level. Choose a
leisurely afternoon floating serenely along a quiet river with
just a few waves along the way, or go for a non-stop thrill ride
packed with Class IV rapids and hardly a pause to catch your
breath. Either way, you’ll have world-class guides on hand to
show you the ropes and help make your adventure a vacation memory
you’ll treasure.

If you’re traveling with young children – or if you just prefer a
more laid-back experience – consider a kayaking trip instead.
You’ll paddle along a lazy river, keeping an eye out for the deer
and other wildlife that make their homes near the water’s edge.
Be sure to bring your camera along, because you’ll have plenty of
opportunity to get some spectacular shots of the local
wildflowers.

There might be other ways to beat the heat this summer, but you
won’t find any that offer the beautiful scenery and
heart-pounding adventure of a whitewater rafting trip in Pigeon
Forge, TN. Hundreds of miles of pristine wilderness, the cool
shade of the deep forest, and the clear waters of a mountain
stream all combine for a vacation that will leave every member of
your family wishing for more.

Jim Watson is Owner of Timbercreek Cabins offering lodging near
Pigeon Forge. Cabin rentals are now available. Visit
http://www.timbercreekcabins.com today for a complete listing of
cabin rentals.