Float the French Broad: An Urban River Drift Through Asheville’s Arts District
An easygoing 2–3 hour float that blends cool water, city color, and summer ease.
The current takes the first word. It slides under your tube, nudges your heels, and whispers: relax, I’ve got this. You push off from the outpost at 521 Amboy Road, the river glinting like slate in the sun, sycamores leaning in as if to eavesdrop. Within minutes, the city thins to green—Carrier Park on one bank, the Biltmore property beyond the other—and Asheville’s favorite blueway starts telling its story in bends and riffles. On this two-to-three-hour float with Asheville Tubing Adventures, you don’t conquer the river; you befriend it.
Trail Wisdom
Closed-toe shoes are required
Protect your feet from rocks and slick riverbeds—water shoes or old sneakers are best.
Sun strategy matters
Apply reef-safe sunscreen before you launch and reapply halfway; a brimmed hat and UPF shirt keep you comfortable.
Cans only—no glass or liquor
Pack beverages in cans and secure them; the river loves to keep anything you don’t tether.
Know the flow
High water shortens the float; low water can mean a few paddle strokes to clear shallow bars. Listen to staff for the day’s line.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Foundation Walls murals on Foundy Street—an open-air graffiti gallery a short walk from the takeout
- •Carrier Park’s velodrome loop—great for a post-float spin or stroll
Wildlife
Great blue heron, Belted kingfisher
Conservation Note
Support local river cleanups and pack out all trash. Avoid stepping on fragile riverbanks and give wildlife room—this waterway is healthier when we tread lightly.
Named the French Broad to distinguish it from rivers in English-held territory, this north-flowing river is among the oldest in the world and once served as a key Cherokee trade route.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Cool temperatures, Quieter river days
Challenges: Cold water, Unpredictable rain showers
Shoulder season brings crisp air and lower crowds; dress warmer and check flows before booking.
summer
Best for: Warm water floats, Family outings, After-work drifts
Challenges: Strong sun, Busy weekends
Peak season for tubing—arrive early or later in the afternoon for softer light and fewer people.
fall
Best for: Leaf color along the banks, Milder temps
Challenges: Shorter days, Cooler water
Expect golden light and thinning crowds; bring an extra layer for the shuttle and post-float.
winter
Best for: Solitude on the greenway
Challenges: Cold water and air, Limited commercial operations
Not typical tubing season; if you’re near the river, enjoy it from shore and plan your float for warmer months.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Closed-toe water shoesEssential
They provide traction on slippery put-ins and protect feet from rocks and debris.
UV-protective long-sleeve shirt (UPF)Essential
Keeps sun off shoulders so you can float longer without burning.
Small dry bag or phone caseEssential
Protects your phone, keys, and ID from splashes and full dunks.
Polarized sunglasses with retainer strap
Cuts surface glare for spotting wildlife and prevents your shades from becoming river treasure.
Common Questions
How long is the float?
Plan on 2–3 hours depending on water levels and wind; higher flows are faster, lower flows a bit slower.
Is the shuttle included?
Yes. You’ll float to the takeout near the River Arts District, and a shuttle brings you back to the Amboy Road outpost.
What should I wear on the river?
Quick-dry clothing or a swimsuit, a hat, and closed-toe shoes are required; bring sunscreen and a light layer for after the float.
Can I bring drinks or a cooler?
Canned beverages are fine. No glass or liquor and secure everything—soft coolers fit best in tubes or on a leash.
Is this suitable for kids?
Yes, for ages 4+ with properly fitted PFDs. The float is mellow, but children should be comfortable on the water and under adult supervision.
What happens if weather or water conditions change?
Staff will assess conditions daily and may delay or reschedule for thunderstorms or unsafe flows; you’ll receive guidance at check-in.
What to Pack
Closed-toe water shoes for safe footing; Reef-safe sunscreen to protect skin and river life; Small dry bag for phone, keys, and ID; Soft-sided cooler with cans only to stay refreshed without risking broken glass.
Did You Know
Geologists estimate the French Broad River to be 260–325 million years old—older than the Appalachian Mountains it threads through—and it flows north toward Tennessee.
Quick Travel Tips
Book earlier or late-day slots for fewer crowds and softer light; Parking at the Amboy Road outpost can fill on weekends—arrive 15–20 minutes early; Bring a valid ID if you plan to visit nearby breweries after; Expect decent cell service along this urban stretch, but keep your phone waterproofed.
Local Flavor
Post-float, walk to New Belgium Brewery for a patio pint overlooking the river, then head to 12 Bones Smokehouse in the River Arts District for ribs and corn pudding. If you prefer a slower wind-down, wander the studios along Depot Street and grab a coffee or gelato between galleries.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Asheville Regional (AVL), ~20 minutes by car. Launch: 521 Amboy Rd, Asheville. Drive time from Downtown Asheville: ~10 minutes. Cell service: Generally good but protect electronics from water. Permits: None required for guided tubing; PFDs provided.
Sustainability Note
Pack out every scrap, skip glass entirely, and avoid trampling soft riverbanks. Support the French Broad Riverkeeper and choose reef-safe sunscreen to keep the watershed clear and thriving.
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