Big Creek Expeditions — Local services in Newport

A White Water Adventure to Remember – Thanks to Big Creek Expeditions and the Amazing Darrell U!

Our recent white water rafting trip on the lower Pigeon River with Big Creek Expeditions was nothing short of extraordinary! From start to finish, the entire experience was smooth, safe, and an absolute blast — and we owe so much of that to our incredible guide, Darrell U.

Darrell was everything you could want in a rafting guide: professional, knowledgeable, and endlessly patient. But what truly set him apart was his warm demeanor and ability to make everyone feel at ease — especially our senior mother, who wasn’t able to paddle. Darrell went out of his way to make sure she was comfortable, safe, and still able to be part of the adventure without missing a moment of fun.

He expertly guided us through the rapids with calm confidence and a great sense of humor, making the entire trip feel exciting yet completely manageable. His attention to detail and care for each individual made all the difference.

The river itself was beautiful, and the rapids on the lower Pigeon were the perfect level for our mixed-ability group. It’s rare to find an activity that keeps adrenaline-lovers satisfied while also being totally accessible to someone who just wants to float along and take in the scenery — but Big Creek Expeditions, and Darrell in particular, made it happen.

If you’re considering a rafting trip — especially with family members of varying ages or abilities — don’t hesitate to book with Big Creek Expeditions. And if you’re lucky enough to ride with Darrell U, get ready for a five-star, unforgettable journey down the river.

Thank you, Darrell, for helping us create memories we’ll treasure for...

I can't express enough to everyone just how great of an experience we had with Big Creek Expeditions!! From the friendly and welcoming staff in the well put together shop. To the very awesome and experienced guides! Everyone had smiles on their faces and were more than happy to help with any questions and concerns that we had. I noticed it with us and with the way they reacted and received others. A true 5 star staff!! I also have to a major thank you to our personal guide, Willis! Born and raised in the area, Willis was and is a true expert in his craft! Very knowledgeable with the history of the area, river and surroundings. He instantly made me and my kids very comfortable. He went above and beyond anything we expected. He made us all feel safe as he easily navigated the rougher paths in the river. Willis even had us doing extra things with the raft that he didn't need to have us do just to make the experience way more fun for myself and the kids. Willis, if your reading this I thank you for making the trip unforgettable for my kids and myself!! Now I gave Willis a 100 dollar tip for everything he did for us... I'm not saying this is what you have to do. I'm not saying this to show off. What I'm saying is that for all we experienced and learned from our guide Willis and for how he made the experience completely unforgettable...memories that my kids and I will never forget. I personally wish I could have given him more! The whole experience from arrival till the moment we drove away was absolutely priceless!! A Big Thank You To Everyone At Big Creek Expeditions!! I would look no where else for the experience of a lifetime if I were...

If you are looking for a fun experience, look no further! This was my first time river rafting in TN and this was a good place to start. Big Creek is very organized when it comes to getting you to your boat. They check you in, they hold your keys and then you go to the orientation. Once you go through the orientation (about 10 minutes), you then go and get your gear (helmet and life jacket) and paddle and then you head onto a bus for about a 10-15 minute ride to the location where you get into the boat.

Most of the rapids are a category III with two of the rapids at a IV. The rapids are fun with some twists and turns. A few bounce you around. You go about 5 miles, there is also a place to swim. Matti was our guide! The best of the best! Very informative, calm and strong. Thank you Matti for making our day fun.

You return back to the place where you parked your car, get out of the boat and head home.

Please note: No flip flops, open toe shoes or bare feet. Wear water shoes or you can purchase a pair at the store. Wear sunscreen, and a bathing suit because you will get wet. This is a pretty mellow river, so kids can go to and long as they can sit up in the boat and able to lock in their feet.

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