Floating Bar Crawl on the French Broad River — Asheville Raft Pub Tour
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; you should be able to climb short muddy banks and walk stairs comfortably.
Overview
Float four miles down the French Broad while hopping three riverside breweries. This easy, social raft tour blends Asheville’s craft-beer culture with a gentle river float, perfect for people comfortable on water and ready for a relaxed afternoon outdoors.
Floating Bar Crawl on the French Broad River — Asheville Raft Pub Tour
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The raft floats into view like a slow island, cooler strapped in, paddles stowed, and the French Broad nudging the hull onward. Sun cuts across exposed roots and low bluffs while the group shuffles down a muddy bank and climbs into bright orange life jackets. Conversation turns to local beers between the soft slap of water and the occasional shout from a paddle. This is not a race; the river insists on a relaxed pace.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Arrange round-trip transport
Park at Hominy Creek River Park but plan a ride-share or shuttle to retrieve your car — the float is about 4 miles one-way.
Wear river-ready shoes
Stairs and muddy banks mean closed-toe shoes with grip or sandals with straps will save slippery moments.
Bring ID and cash/card
You’ll stop at breweries and food trucks; carry a photo ID and a card for purchases and tipping.
Use a dry bag for valuables
Keep phones and keys dry during transitions and on the raft; a small dry bag makes transfers easy.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Great blue heron
- River otter
History
The French Broad River predates the Appalachian uplift and served as a corridor for indigenous peoples and early settlers; riverside mills later drove regional industry before breweries reclaimed the riverfront.
Conservation
Respect riverbanks and pack out trash; many Asheville outfitters support river cleanups and sustainable boating practices to protect aquatic habitat.
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Adventure Hotspots in Asheville
Recommended Gear
Closed-toe river shoes
Grip and protection for muddy banks and rocky take-outs.
summer specific
Lightweight waterproof jacket
Protects against unexpected river spray and cool breezes.
spring specific
Dry bag or waterproof phone case
Keeps valuables dry during the float and at stopovers.
Reef-safe sunscreen and hat
Sun exposure is prolonged on open river sections and at waterfront decks.
summer specific