Frequently Asked Questions

Once you reserve our equipment, we block that inventory off exclusively for you. If you would like to cancel then this is our policy:

• More than 48 hours in advance – full refund
• Between 24-48 hours – 50% refund
• Less than 24 hours – you can reschedule to a different date.
• We do not issue refunds for no-shows or weather. In severe weather cases, we offer rain checks that never expire.

Lightning or heavy rain is the only reason we would not allow equipment to go out. From the customer’s perspective, there are no mid-trip rainchecks. This is a watersport and light rain does not prevent the activity from taking place. Also, there is nowhere for us to come to get people mid-trip should they decide to discontinue for light rain. We suggest switching to a shorter float option if that is a concern.

Once we have determined the weather is fine at the start, the customer is committed to the route of their choosing.

The minimum age is 3 if riding with an adult, but 10 years old if paddling their own boat on the short float.  This is because there are a few sections of moving water, nothing technical, but not safe for an infant or very small toddler riding in a lap. It is suggested that kids 3 or older ride in a tandem kayak. So, if the kid is too small to ride in a seat by themselves or won’t sit still without constant attention from an adult, they are too young. For the medium and long floats, persons under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Most boats have a weight limit of 275 pounds. We have some boats that can accommodate up to a 320-pound paddler, but we need to know that ahead of time because supplies are limited for heavier participants. If you have mobility issues, please call ahead for recommendations as the river activities may not be possible or safe.

Smooth Rapids is geographically centered between Nashville, Knoxville, and Chattanooga.

• From Nashville: from Interstate 24, take exit 111 (Hwy 55) in Manchester and turn towards McMinnville – we are walking distance from downtown McMinnville.
• From Knoxville: from Interstate 40, take exit 288 (Hwy 111) to Sparta then Hwy 70 into McMinnville.
• From Chattanooga: take Hwy 127 to Hwy 111 past Dunlap then left on Hwy 8 into McMinnville

If you go kayaking or tubing, you will get wet. Dress appropriately for the water activities, your feet will be in the water often so water shoes are recommended. Be sure to bring extra clothes, towels and keep them and any other belongings inside a dry bag.

For camping: grills, picnic tables, and fire rings are provided. Bring your own camping chairs.

Yes, weather permitting. If the temperature is below 55 degrees for the day, we may discontinue activities on the river until it warms back up.

We run rain or shine. In the event of a thunderstorm, you can pull over to the river bank and call for emergency instructions, but for the most part, you should be fine to wait it out and finish your route.

We have some alternate routes available that allow the activity to continue. In severe weather cases, we offer rain checks that never expire. Please see our cancellation policy.