Cherokee Rapids
- Address: 1697 Acquoni Road, Cherokee, NC 28719
- Phone: (828) 736-4231
- Website: cherokeerapids.com
- Type: Attraction – River Tubing Outfitter
- Family-Friendly: Yes (no children under 5)
- Admission: $$
- Hours:
- Memorial Day–Labor Day | Daily 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Weather & river conditions permitting
Why Go: Cool off with a fun, scenic tubing adventure on the pristine Oconaluftee River – the biggest, best, and friendliest outfitter in Cherokee, complete with gentle rapids, swimming holes, and a rope swing.
About Cherokee Rapids River Tubing
Cherokee Rapids River Tubing is the largest and most popular tubing outfitter in Cherokee, North Carolina, located on the beautiful Oconaluftee River – one of the cleanest, clearest, and most scenic rivers in the Southeast.
They offer the longest and most exciting Big Cove Route with more rapids, better scenery, and the best value, including a free shuttle two miles upriver so you float right back to your car.
Nestled near Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cherokee Rapids delivers a relaxing yet thrilling mountain river experience perfect for families and adventure seekers alike.
Getting to Cherokee Rapids River Tubing
Cherokee Rapids River Tubing is located at 1697 Acquoni Road in Cherokee. Park toward the back of the Little Princess Restaurant lot, then head inside the Cherokee Rapids / Scoopers Ice Cream store to check in. Ample parking and shuttle service are included.
Why Choose Cherokee Rapids River Tubing
Cherokee Rapids stands out as the #1 tubing outfitter in Cherokee because they provide longer trips, more rapids, and superior scenery at the best value – all with direct river access and friendly service.
Guests enjoy a hassle-free experience with included shuttle service, life jackets, and the freedom to float at their own pace while exploring swimming holes and a rope swing.
Highlights
Signature experiences at Cherokee Rapids include these visitor favorites.
- Big Cove Tubing Route: Longest and most popular float with gentle rapids and scenic mountain views.
- Oconaluftee River Adventure: Crystal-clear water, swimming holes, and a thrilling rope swing.
- Free Shuttle Service: Bus ride upriver so you float right back to your car.
- Kayak Rentals Available: Single and tandem kayaks for those wanting a more active paddle.
- Family-Friendly Fun: Relaxed pace perfect for all ages (kids 5+).
- Best Value in Cherokee: $16 per person includes tube, shuttle, and life jacket.
What to Expect
Expect a relaxing yet exciting day on the river with mountain scenery and friendly staff.
- Two-hour (or longer) float with gentle Class I-II rapids.
- Plenty of swimming holes and a popular rope swing to play in.
- Free shuttle to the put-in point with no waiting for pickup.
- Easy check-in at the on-site store with ice cream available.
- Seasonal operation Memorial Day through Labor Day.
- Safety-first approach with life jackets and waivers.
- Family-friendly atmosphere (no children under 5).
Nearby Attractions in Cherokee
After your float, explore these other great attractions in Cherokee.
- Oconaluftee Indian Village: Living history showing traditional Cherokee life.
- Qualla Arts & Crafts Mutual: Authentic Cherokee-made art and crafts.
- Santa’s Land Fun Park and Zoo: Family-friendly amusement park with animals and rides.
- Unto These Hills: Epic outdoor drama telling the Cherokee story.
- Rivers Edge Outfitters: Guided rafting and outdoor adventures on the river.
Explore More
Cherokee Rapids River Tubing is your gateway to a full Cherokee experience. After your visit, explore the area’s many attractions and outdoor activities.
- Address: 1697 Acquoni Road, Cherokee, NC 28719
- Phone: (828) 736-4231
- Website: cherokeerapids.com
- Type: Attraction – River Tubing Outfitter
- Family-Friendly: Yes (no children under 5)
- Admission: $$
- Hours:
- Memorial Day–Labor Day | Daily 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Weather & river conditions permitting
Why Go: Cool off with a fun, scenic tubing adventure on the pristine Oconaluftee River, the biggest, best, and friendliest outfitter in Cherokee, complete with gentle rapids, swimming holes, and a rope swing.
About Cherokee Rapids River Tubing
- Largest tubing outfitter on the beautiful Oconaluftee River in Cherokee.
- Big Cove Route with more rapids, swimming holes, and rope swing.
- Free shuttle service so you float right back to your car.
- Family-friendly fun for kids 5 and older.
- Best value at $16 per person including tube and transport.
- Seasonal operation Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Getting to Cherokee Rapids River Tubing
- Located at 1697 Acquoni Road in Cherokee.
- Park in the back of the Little Princess lot.
- Check in at the on-site store for shuttle and waiver.
- Easy access near Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Why Choose Cherokee Rapids River Tubing
- #1 tubing outfitter with longest and most scenic trips.
- Direct river access and included shuttle service.
- Gentle rapids and fun swimming holes for all ages.
- Best value and friendliest service in Cherokee.
- Kayak rentals available for more active paddlers.
- Safety-first operation on the pristine Oconaluftee River.
Highlights
- Big Cove Tubing Route: Longest and most popular float with gentle rapids and scenic mountain views.
- Oconaluftee River Adventure: Crystal-clear water, swimming holes, and a thrilling rope swing.
- Free Shuttle Service: Bus ride upriver so you float right back to your car.
- Kayak Rentals Available: Single and tandem kayaks for those wanting a more active paddle.
- Family-Friendly Fun: Relaxed pace perfect for all ages (kids 5+).
- Best Value in Cherokee: $16 per person includes tube, shuttle, and life jacket.
What to Expect
- Two-hour (or longer) float with gentle Class I-II rapids.
- Plenty of swimming holes and a popular rope swing to play in.
- Free shuttle to the put-in point with no waiting for pickup.
- Easy check-in at the on-site store with ice cream available.
- Seasonal operation Memorial Day through Labor Day.
- Safety-first approach with life jackets and waivers.
- Family-friendly atmosphere (no children under 5).
Nearby Attractions in Cherokee
- Oconaluftee Indian Village: Living history showing traditional Cherokee life.
- Qualla Arts & Crafts Mutual: Authentic Cherokee-made art and crafts.
- Santa’s Land Fun Park and Zoo: Family-friendly amusement park with animals and rides.
- Unto These Hills: Epic outdoor drama telling the Cherokee story.
- Rivers Edge Outfitters: Guided rafting and outdoor adventures on the river.
Explore More
Cherokee Rapids River Tubing is your gateway to a full Cherokee experience. After your visit, explore the area’s many attractions and outdoor activities.
Disclaimer
My Smoky Mountain Guide aims to provide accurate, up-to-date information about Great Smoky Mountains National Park and surrounding areas, using reputable sources. However, details about events, attractions, trails, or businesses may change without notice due to factors like weather or park policies. We cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of our content. Visitors should verify details with official sources, such as the National Park Service or local businesses, before planning. My Smoky Mountain Guide is not liable for inaccuracies, omissions, or consequences from using this information. You are responsible for your own decisions based on our content. For feedback or corrections, please contact us.
