River Tubing on the French Broad with Asheville Adventure
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; requires ability to sit upright and enter/exit water safely.
Overview
Drift down the French Broad River with Asheville Adventure Company’s tubing trips—a laid-back, sun-soaked way to enjoy Asheville's vibrant riverfront and cool summer breeze.
Asheville Tubing Adventures
Ages 4+ • 2 hours • Tubes with Cup holders! • Enjoy the cruise!
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About This Adventure
Experience the thrill of tubing on the historic French Broad River! Launch from our scenic Asheville Outpost and float past Carrier Park and the vibrant River Arts District. Enjoy the sun, relax in comfy tubes with cup holders, and make unforgettable memories with friends on this refreshing summer adventure.
Enjoy our fun, relaxing tubing experience on the French Broad River! You get to see scenic views of Carrier Park and the River Arts District!
Duration
2 hours
About
You start your trip at our beautiful Outpost in the heart of Asheville. You launch for your trip from our Outpost. This trip normally takes about 2-3 hours to complete. Our shuttle vehicle will pick you up at the end of your trip and bring you back to our Outpost.
Float the French Broad River while partying with your friends on a hot summer day! Tube from our spectacular outpost, located across the river from Biltmore property, float past Carrier park and through the bustling River Arts District. Take some cold beverages with you in our super comfy tubes with cup holders, and take your time getting back to us. Stop at any of the shady calm spots along the way and relax, take a refreshing plunge as you float along, or just kick back and soak up some sun and good times. This trip runs 7 days a week and generally takes about 2-3 hours depending on water levels, which is the perfect length for your trip. The trip begins at our Outpost at 521 Amboy and finishes at the River Arts District by our bike shop directly across the river from New Belgium Brewery.
What Is The French Broad River?
The French Broad River is one of the oldest rivers in the world, spanning 218 miles from Rosman, North Carolina, through Asheville, and toward the state of Tennessee. It runs through the Pisgah National Forest and the Cherokee National Forest. The French Broad River flows north from south Asheville through Buncombe County and goes past West Asheville, Midtown, the River Arts District, and is close to Beer City breweries like New Belgium and Sierra Nevada.
What's included
- Inflatable inner tube
- Personal flotation device (PFD) We provide high quality PFDs with a weight range of 50 lbs-275 lbs
- Shuttle service to the outpost
What to bring
- Anything you bring will get wet.
- Bathing suit or quick dry clothing.
- Sun hat/ sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Closed toed shoes are required (water shoes or tennis shoes)
What NOT to bring
- Absolutely NO GLASS!
- No Liquor or fortified spirits
- No pets
- Anything you take with you on the river can get wet or lost
Adventure Tips
Arrive early to secure parking
The Asheville Outpost area can fill up quickly on weekends, so arrive early to find convenient parking and avoid the crowds.
Bring water shoes or sandals
The river bottom is rocky in places; sturdy water footwear will protect your feet during entry and exit.
Use waterproof bags for valuables
Carry your phone, keys, and wallet in waterproof pouches to keep them safe while on the water.
Pack biodegradable sunscreen
Protect your skin and the river’s ecosystem by using eco-friendly sunscreen products during your float.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Great blue herons often seen wading near the shoreline
- River otters occasionally spotted playing in calm pools
History
The French Broad River has been a critical waterway for indigenous peoples and settlers since pre-colonial times, making it one of the oldest rivers in North America.
Conservation
Asheville Adventure Company advocates for Leave No Trace principles to protect the river’s ecosystem and supports local clean-up efforts to maintain water quality.
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Adventure Hotspots in Asheville
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Water shoes
Protects feet from rocks and slippery riverbanks during entry and exit.
summer specific
Biodegradable sunscreen
Shields skin while preserving river water quality.
summer specific
Waterproof phone pouch
Keeps electronics safe from splashes and potential submersion.
summer specific
Lightweight hat
Provides shade and reduces sun exposure on sunny floats.
summer specific