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.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; requires ability to sit upright and enter/exit water safely.
Wildlife
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.
Asheville Adventure Company
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 Adventure Company is a river-focused outdoor operator based in Asheville, NC, offering a range of experiences on the French Broad River and nearby waterways. The company presents self-guided and guided options, including the Beautiful Self Guided Kayaking by the Biltmore (a 2.5–3.5 hour float ending in the River Arts District), Asheville Tubing Adventures launching from the Asheville Outpost, private Tranquil Family Biltmore Rafting Tours (3.5 hours), and multiple whitewater rafting itineraries on the French Broad.
Trip options include family-friendly private rafting with opportunities to swim and view the Biltmore Estate, tubing floats past Carrier Park and the River Arts District with comfortable tubes and cup holders, and Section 9 whitewater rafting through Pisgah National Forest featuring approximately 5 miles of class II and III rapids (with occasional class IV drops depending on rainfall). Party bus rentals are also available in two size ranges — buses for up to 14 guests and larger buses accommodating 15–42 people — each described with high-quality sound systems and customizable decor for events like bachelor/bachelorette parties, concerts, and birthdays.
The company's offerings reference local landmarks such as the Biltmore Estate, River Arts District, Carrier Park, and Pisgah National Forest, and emphasize river sections on the French Broad. Guides are noted for navigating Section 9 and leading private family tours. The combination of self-guided paddles, tubing floats, guided rafting, and group transportation positions Asheville Adventure Company as a versatile option for visitors and locals seeking river-based recreation in Asheville and along the French Broad River.
Location
Asheville, NC
Based in Western North Carolina
River Trips
French Broad River
Multiple sections and styles
Max Capacity
42 people
Largest party bus capacity
Typical Duration
2.5–3.5 hrs
Common trip length
Book kayaking, tubing, guided or private rafting, or a party bus rental on the French Broad River — limited availability for peak season dates.
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.
Water shoes
Protects feet from rocks and slippery riverbanks during entry and exit.
summer
Biodegradable sunscreen
Shields skin while preserving river water quality.
summer
Waterproof phone pouch
Keeps electronics safe from splashes and potential submersion.
summer
Lightweight hat
Provides shade and reduces sun exposure on sunny floats.
summer