Floating Pints: How Asheville Does a River Bar Crawl
Drift between breweries on the French Broad and let the river set the pace
You step down a short set of slick wooden stairs, the river breathing a slow, steady current at your feet. Inflatable rafts bob like lazy lily pads; the guide clips a cooler to a central paddle raft and laughs as someone passes a six-pack across arm's reach. Above, the Blue Ridge foothills hold the sky—a soft, undramatic backdrop to what quickly becomes one of the most unusual ways to spend an afternoon in Asheville. The river invites you to drift, and the breweries dare you to linger.
Trail Wisdom
Bring a Dry Bag
Use a waterproof bag for phone, wallet and layers; it keeps essentials safe during the float and when you climb muddy banks.
Wear Secure Footwear
Sturdy water shoes or sandals with straps make boarding rafts, walking sandbars and climbing banks safer and more comfortable.
Plan Transportation Ahead
Park at Hominy Creek River Park and arrange a rideshare to retrieve your car after the tour rather than driving if you plan to drink.
Respect River Etiquette
No glass in the water, pack out trash, and avoid trampling vegetation on riverbanks—these simple acts help preserve the river corridor.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Hominy Creek Park walking trail for a quiet riverside stroll
- •River Arts District galleries a short drive from float launch
Wildlife
Great Blue Heron, Painted Turtle
Conservation Note
Pack out what you bring, avoid glass, and support local river cleanups; breweries and guides often participate in watershed stewardship initiatives.
The French Broad River is one of the oldest rivers in North America and was a travel corridor for Indigenous peoples and early settlers through the Appalachian region.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: warmer days after thaw, wildflower viewing along banks
Challenges: higher flows after rain, cooler water temperatures
Spring offers fresh green banks and energetic flows; on cooler days bring an extra dry layer and waterproof footwear.
summer
Best for: warm-water floating, long daylight hours, peak brewery hours
Challenges: crowds on weekends, strong sun exposure
Summer is prime for floating and beer stops—expect busier itineraries and hot afternoons, so hydrate and wear sun protection.
fall
Best for: crisp air and fewer crowds, autumn foliage views
Challenges: cooler water and air temperatures, shorter days
Early fall balances pleasant temps with quieter launches; bring a light insulating layer for stops and evenings.
winter
Best for: off-season brewery visits, lower crowds at taprooms
Challenges: cold water and limited floats, many operators suspend tours
Winter floats are uncommon; check availability and be prepared for cold conditions if offered.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Dry Bag or Waterproof Phone CaseEssential
Protects electronics and dry items from splashes and accidental submersion.
Water ShoesEssential
Provides traction for wet docks, sandbars and muddy bank climbs.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen & HatEssential
Protects skin from glare off the water while minimizing harm to aquatic ecosystems.
Light Quick-Dry Layer
A thin insulating layer helps when breezes cool you between brewery stops.
Common Questions
Are guests allowed to bring their own drinks?
Guides typically allow guests to bring beverages in coolers, but glass containers are prohibited; check with the operator on limits.
What is the minimum age for participants?
Guests must be at least 15 years old to join with a parent or guardian; minors cannot consume alcohol.
Is swimming required or expected?
No; the float follows calm, shallow sections of the river and stable rafts are provided—however, you should be comfortable around water.
Where should I park and how do I get my car afterward?
Parking at Hominy Creek River Park is recommended; many guests use a rideshare for post-tour retrieval to avoid driving after drinking.
How much should I tip the guide?
Gratuity is appreciated; 15–20% of the tour cost is a common guideline depending on service.
What happens in bad weather?
Tours may be postponed or canceled for unsafe river conditions or severe weather; operators will notify you as soon as possible.
What to Pack
Waterproof phone case (protects electronics), Water shoes (grip on wet surfaces), Reusable water bottle (stay hydrated), Small dry towel (dry off before brewery stops)
Did You Know
The French Broad River is often cited as one of the oldest rivers in the world and flows through Asheville—this ancient waterway helped shape regional trade and settlement patterns.
Quick Travel Tips
Book midweek to avoid crowds; arrange rideshare for car retrieval; wear water-friendly shoes; avoid bringing glass on the float
Local Flavor
Post-float, wander into the River Arts District for local ceramics and murals, then grab a sandwich from a Foundation food truck or a flight at New Belgium—many breweries welcome wet, river-fresh visitors and offer riverside patios to keep the day flowing.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Asheville Regional Airport (AVL); Recommended launch: Hominy Creek River Park (10–15 minutes from downtown); Driving distance from downtown Asheville: ~10–20 minutes; Cell service: intermittent along river corridor but strong near breweries; Permits: No special permits required for this commercial tour.
Sustainability Note
Avoid glass on the river, carry out all trash, and support local brewery-led river cleanups; these simple steps help protect the French Broad watershed.