Cooling Down on the Pigeon

Staff Photo by Jake Depew

Sunday, June 21, 2015 is the first official day of Summer, and what better way to kick off the season than with a rafting trip down the Pigeon River? 5 Rivers Adventures is a family owned and run business owned by Jason Grooms and Chuck Stansberry operating out of Hartford, TN. 5 Rivers has been in operation since 1997 with Stansberry becoming an owner this past August. 5 Rivers pride themselves on a professional, personable, and passionate staff: every guide at 5 Rivers Adventures has at least 12 years of experience, and guides are chosen based on the needs of the group. It is clear that the guides are in love with their job, as Stansberry wholeheartedly claims that rafting is one of the most stress-free, engaging activities he’s ever undertaken.

This passion is reflected in the company’s work. Rather than opting for a run-of-the-mill cruise straight down the river, 5 Rivers ensures that rafters get to enjoy themselves for the entire trip, allowing groups to swim and see some of the river’s greatest spots for Summer fun. There are two major trips for people to enjoy: a lower river and upper river experience. The upper river trip is a class III/IV whitewater adventure that is suitable for anyone age 8 and up, or over 70lbs. The lower river option is a float trip, with much gentler waters for groups with children ages 3 and up, or with elderly passengers who would rather have a more peaceful ride, ensuring that there is an enjoyable outing for just about any group.

5 Rivers Adventures operates on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday from Memorial Day to Labor Day. All trips are roughly two hours long, to ensure rafters fully experience the Pigeon River, and participants are only required to bring clothes they don’t mind getting wet, a towel, a fresh change of clothes, and shoes that have a heel strap (meaning, no open-back sandals). For further booking information, directions, and trip details, click here.