Combine craft beer tasting with a peaceful paddle down the French Broad River on the Asheville Brew Paddle. Explore hidden breweries and scenic waterways for a one-of-a-kind outdoor adventure.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Basic fitness needed to paddle and maneuver a kayak or paddleboard for a few hours comfortably.
Wildlife
History
The French Broad River has been a vital waterway for local Native American communities and early settlers, contributing to Asheville’s growth.
Conservation
Efforts to maintain river water quality and protect native species are ongoing, with paddlers encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles.
GreenFlash Watersports
Combine craft beer tasting with a peaceful paddle down the French Broad River on the Asheville Brew Paddle. Explore hidden breweries and scenic waterways for a one-of-a-kind outdoor adventure.
GreenFlash Watersports is a Black Mountain, North Carolina-based outfitter offering guided paddling trips, equipment rentals, and lake-based camps.
The company specializes in kayak and stand-up paddleboard floats through Asheville river corridors, shuttle-supported Shredder kayak-tube floats to waterfalls and meaderies, brewery paddles, and skill-focused wake surf, wakeboard, and waterski sessions on Lake James led by experienced captains and instructors.
Safety and local knowledge guide every outing. Equipment includes kayaks, hybrid Shredder tube-kayaks, paddleboards, and a MasterCraft NXT20 for wake sports. Captain Eric Eastridge is identified as the host for Lake James wake surf and waterski experiences, providing hands-on coaching. Trips launch near the river arts district, float past the Biltmore Estate, include brewery stops on the Asheville Brew Paddle, and finish at waterfall access points on the Rocky Broad River.
GreenFlash Watersports emphasizes family-friendly experiences for ages four and up, with lifeguarded swim beaches during youth camps and expert instructors for watersport lessons. Booking details, including ID requirements for brewery stops, group size guidance, and what to bring, are provided with each trip listing to set clear expectations and support safe, enjoyable adventures.
Location
Black Mountain, NC
Based in Western North Carolina
Tours Offered
9 unique trips
Guided floats, rentals, and camps
Popular Lake
Lake James
Overnight and day camp options
All Ages
Ages 4+
Family-friendly rentals and trips
Check availability for Asheville brewery paddles, Shredder rentals, Lake James wake coaching, and youth day or overnight camps — book now to secure shuttle and equipment.
Wear Water-Resistant Shoes
Choose footwear that can handle wet conditions since you'll be getting in and out of kayaks or paddleboards.
Bring a Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated by bringing your own water bottle as alcohol can dehydrate you on the river.
Apply Biodegradable Sunscreen
Protect your skin without harming the river ecosystem by using eco-friendly sunscreen.
Know Your Alcohol Limit
Enjoy the brewery stops responsibly—maintain control while paddling to ensure safety on the water.
Waterproof Dry Bag
Keep your belongings safe and dry throughout the river journey.
Quick-Dry Clothing
Helps stay comfortable if you get splashed or sweaty during the paddle.
summer|spring|fall
Light Jacket or Windbreaker
Provides warmth against wind and cooler temperatures on the river.
fall|spring|winter
Wide-Brimmed Hat
Protects your face and neck from sun exposure during the paddle.
summer|spring|fall