Few things are more fun and refreshing than riding down a mountain creek on a sunny summer day.
The Oconaluftee River in Western North Carolina offers an unforgettable experience with its sparkling waters and gentle rapids, complemented by the beauty of the surrounding Smoky Mountains. And the best way to enjoy it? The most famous outfitter in Cherokee, NC, is Cherokee Rapids River Tubing.
Tubing along this famous river is a summer event for families, couples, or friends. It is inexpensive, family-friendly, and loaded with memorable experiences. It includes floating along forest curves and dashing through cold Class I rapids.
And once the adventure is complete, there can be no better place to relax than the Elk Hollow Resort, just a few minutes away.
What Is Cherokee Rapids River Tubing?
Cherokee Rapids River Tubing is the most renowned outdoor activity in Cherokee, North Carolina. Here, visitors have the opportunity to float down the Oconaluftee River on a comfortable inflatable tube.
The experience is relaxing and safe for all age groups. The Oconaleftee River is characterised by crystal clear waters, smooth stones, and gentle Class I rapids, which bring enough thrills without being too much.
Tubing is beautiful because it is so simple. You jump into a tube and sit and get carried along the river.
Among these brief flashes of rapids, you will find large, cool pools where you may swim or float, or merely admire the Smoky Mountains all about you.
Cherokee Rapids River Tubing Route Multiple Route Options
Cherokee Rapids has two well-known float trips:
- Little Princess Route: A less difficult and shorter float that younger children and families can take as an introduction to it.
- Big Cove Route: A more adventurous, a little longer, and involving some swimming holes, rope swings, and a few splashes.
Regardless of your path of choice, shuttle services are provided so you can be sure of getting to the river and getting there without a hassle.
What’s Included in Your Cherokee Rapids Tubing Experience
You receive all you need to have a safe and fun experience when you book a tubing trip with Cherokee Rapids:
- A durable river tube
- A properly sized life jacket
- Shuttle transport to and from the launch point.
- Access to parking and the riverside facilities.
That’s it, you can walk in with a simple swimsuit, water shoes, and sunscreen, and you are all set!
Cherokee Rapids River Tubing Prices 2026
Cherokee Rapids tubing is as thrilling as it is cost-effective and one of the least expensive outdoor activities in the Smoky Mountains. It is affordable to families, couples, and groups.
| Options | Price |
|---|---|
| Standard Tube Rental | $14 |
| Group Discount | For groups of 15+ people, 10% off per person. |
| Police & Military Discount | 10% off |
| Second Ride (Same Day) | $7 per person |
Cherokee Rapids remains a frontrunner in fun, family action, and one of the most sought-after methods to spend several hours in lovely Cherokee, NC!
Why Choose Cherokee Rapids for Tubing in Cherokee NC?
There are numerous possibilities to enjoy the Smokies, so why should you take a ride in a tube in Cherokee Rapids?
Scenic Beauty of the Oconaluftee River
A jewel of the Smokies is this river. And its waters are wonderfully clear, flowing around round stones and painted with mountain laurel and sycamores. You will get to see wildlife such as ducks, herons, and possibly even black bears near the rivers (at a safe distance, of course) on the way.
Family-Friendly Outdoor Fun
Tubing is appropriate for both kids and adults, unlike more vigorous water sports. The mild rapids are exciting without being hazardous, and life jackets are supplied for all ages. Families tend to return year in year out, thus making tubing an annual business.
Affordable Mountain Adventure
Tubing is one of the least expensive activities in the Smoky Mountains, as vacations may be costly. It has the lowest rates per person, so that the entire family can be easily taken with the wallet.
Convenient Cherokee Location
The primary presence of Cherokee Rapids is right in Cherokee, near the downtown shops, restaurants, and attractions. It means that you can combine your tubing adventure with a visit to the Museum of the Cherokee People or a nice time in Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort.
Multiple Route Options
The outfitter has a variety of float types, including the relaxed Little Princess Route (ideal to start with, that is, with kids) or the challenging Big Cove Route, which includes rope swings and swimming holes. You will even be able to ride as many times as with discounted passes.
Enhance Your Cherokee Rapids Trip with Elk Hollow Resort
You will be tired of splashing, floating, and soaking in the sun, and then you will be charged with the need for a relaxed place. This is where Elk Hollow Resort comes in.
Elk Hollow Resort, which is situated in Bryson City, NC, has a variety of some of the best accommodations that suit all styles:
- Luxury Glamping Tents: Large canvas tents containing comfortable beds, inside decks, and access to contemporary amenities.
- Yurts: This is a one of a kind of accommodation that offers both a rustic environment and a home-like feel.
- Hot Tub Cabins: Ideal for couples or family settings, such as a couple that has gone on a day out adventure and wants to have a quiet time together.
Elk Hollow is not only near Cherokee Rapids, but also hiking trails, waterfalls, ziplining, and whitewater rafting. It is the supreme camping ground to investigate the Smoky Mountains.
Think about spending the afternoon floating the Oconaluftee River and returning to your cabin in a private hot tub in the stars. That’s the Elk Hollow experience, making outdoor adventure with evening comfort.
Planning Your Cherokee Rapids Tubing Adventure
You might think that being on the river is stress-free, but with a bit of planning, your tubing adventure with Cherokee Rapids can be even more relaxing and enjoyable.
Best Time to Go Tubing in Cherokee NC
Cherokee tubing season typically starts at the end of May. It ends in early September, beginning about Memorial Day Weekend and closing after Labour Day. Summer is the most popular season; the season can also be extended based on water levels and weather.
→ Spring (Late May to Early June):
The river is cool and refreshing, and the crowds are smaller. It is a good time if you want a more peaceful float. Simply be ready to use a little colder water and a fast-drying towel in case.
→ Summer (Mid-June to August):
The high season. The water is cool, the climate is mild, and the ambience is vibrant. Groups and families throng the river, making it appear festive.
→ Early Fall (September):
With the crowds becoming extremely thinner, the river can still be floated. You may even pick up some fall colours in the Smokies and have a picturesque ride.
Pro Tip: On a weekday morning, float when you do not want as many people on the river. Weekends and particularly July to August are the busiest.
What to Bring for Cherokee Rapids River Tubing
Although Cherokee Rapids has the basics (tube, life jacket, shuttle ride), carrying the appropriate extras will help you have a better time and an easier day:
- Water Shoes: Flip-flops can easily fall off the river, which is why it is better to wear tight shoes.
- Sunscreen: The sun is bouncing off the water, which implies that you are exposed both vertically and horizontally. Generously apply and halfway through your float, reapply.
- Swimsuit or Quick-Dry Clothing: Cotton will remain damp for hours, whereas quick-dry fabrics will keep the post-tubing segment of your day much more comfortable.
- Sunglasses with a Strap: Keep your eyes safe, but fasten them on so that you do not lose them in the rapids.
- Waterproof Phone Case/Pouch: Take your phone in a photo but protect it against splashes.
Cherokee Rapids Tubing Safety Tips
Although the process of tubing is one of the least risky water activities in the Smokies, there are a couple of safety rules that one should follow to have a good time:
- Wear a Life Jacket: Cherokee Rapids does give them out free. One should be worn even by strong swimmers, as the stream of rivers may be unpredictable.
- Stay Hydrated: Pack water or hydrate yourself before floating or after floating. You can get dehydrated in the sun and water combo without realizing it.
- Do Not Tie Tubes Together in Rapids: It sounds like a good idea to have fun floating in a group; however, tying tubes together may cause safety issues when going through the currents or various obstacles. Rather, keep together by paddling near.
- Follow the Instructions of the Staff: The outfitter or his crew has the best idea of the river conditions. Listen to their safety lectures and route advice.
Keep close watch over Young children: Children love tubing, but they must not at any time be out of reach of an adult.
How Long Does a Cherokee Rapids Tubing Trip Last?
Cherokee Rapids is one of the few great places with options for its tubing paths:
- Short Float (1 Hour): Ideal when you have small children or are going through the experience for the first time and only wish to have a little bit of tubing.
- Standard Float (2 Hours): The best seller, a time that has both fun rapids and time to rest.
- All-Day Pass: You may have too much to ride, so what you have is an opportunity to ride as much as you want. A popular activity among many visitors is going out in the morning to have a run, lunching in Cherokee, and returning to the resort in the afternoon.
Getting to Cherokee Rapids River Tubing
Cherokee Rapids has an outpost close to the Cherokee in NC. Guests are free to park, and the staff will give them shuttle rides to and from the river. This is because you do not need to consider any issue of transport; all you need to do is park your car, check in, and in a very short time, you are floating.
Location: 1697 Acquoni Rd, Cherokee, NC 28719, United States
Guest Testimonials
Families who stayed with us said tubing was their kids’ favorite activity.” One guest recently shared:
→ “We stayed at Elk Hollow Resort and spent the afternoon tubing on the Oconaluftee River. Our kids laughed the entire way down, and coming back to relax in a hot tub cabin was the perfect ending to our Smoky Mountain day.” – The Johnson Family, Atlanta, GA
Another couple wrote:
→ “We booked Elk Hollow as a base for exploring the Smokies, and tubing was the highlight of our trip. Affordable, fun, and easy for first-timers. We’ll definitely be back!” – Emily & Chris, Raleigh, NC
Conclusion | Experience Cherokee Rapids River Tubing in 2026
The Oconaluftee River Cherokee Rapids River Tubing is not an activity but an experience. It’s the laughter of kids splashing in the water, the thrill of riding a gentle rapid, and the peaceful drift under the Smoky Mountain sun.
Add to that the comfort and beauty of glamping at Elk Hollow Resort, and you have the ultimate Smoky Mountain vacation: adventure in the daytime and rest in the night.
Get your swimsuit, your sense of adventure, and prepare to forget your worries and go floating. The Smokies are calling!
Reserve a room with Elk Hollow Resort and begin planning your day of Cherokee Rapids tubing adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions about Cherokee Rapids River Tubing
1. Is Cherokee Rapids River Tubing safe for kids?
Yes! Cherokee Rapids is family-friendly and ideal for kids. Life jackets are provided for all ages, and the Little Princess Route is especially designed for younger children and beginners.
2. Do I need to know how to swim to go tubing?
Not necessarily. The Oconaluftee River has gentle Class I rapids, and all guests are given life jackets for safety. However, being comfortable around water is recommended.
3. How much does Cherokee Rapids River Tubing cost?
The standard tube rental is $14 per person, which includes shuttle service, a tube, and a life jacket (if requested). Discounts are available for groups, police, military, and same-day second rides.
4. How long does a tubing trip take?
You can choose from different routes. The shorter float takes about 1 hour, while the standard float lasts around 2 hours. There are also all-day passes if you want to tube multiple times.
5. What should I bring with me for tubing?
Bring water shoes, sunscreen, quick-dry clothing or swimsuits, sunglasses with a strap, and a waterproof phone case. Everything else (tube, shuttle, and life jacket) is provided.
6. When is the best time to go tubing in Cherokee?
Tubing season runs from late May through early September. Summer (June–August) is the most popular time, but spring and early fall offer fewer crowds and scenic beauty.
7. Where is Cherokee Rapids River Tubing located?
Cherokee Rapids is located at 1697 Acquoni Rd, Cherokee, NC 28719. Parking and shuttle services are included with your rental, making it easy to access the river.
8. Can I combine tubing with other activities nearby?
Absolutely! After tubing, you can explore the Museum of the Cherokee People, hike to Mingo Falls, or enjoy Harrah’s Cherokee Casino. Many visitors also stay at Elk Hollow Resort in Bryson City for glamping, cabins, and hot tubs close to all the Smoky Mountain attractions.
9. What river flows through Cherokee, NC?
The river that flows through Cherokee, NC is the Oconaluftee River. The Oconaluftee drains the southern Smoky Mountain region and passes through the Qualla Boundary and Cherokee before eventually joining the Tuckasegee River system.
