Cedar Rock Adventures: River & Hiking Tours in Asheville - Asheville

Cedar Rock Adventures: River & Hiking Tours in Asheville

Ashevillemoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

3–8 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should be in average physical condition, able to hike uneven terrain and paddle or float for several hours.

Overview

Cedar Rock Adventures blends Asheville’s mountain trails and river routes with local craft brewery stops, crafting outdoor experiences that are as refreshing as they are memorable. Discover hiking and floating trips that showcase the best of Western North Carolina.

Details

Asheville, North Carolina sits at the edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains, where the French Broad River carves a path through lush forests and vibrant towns. Cedar Rock Adventures brings this dynamic landscape within reach through a collection of outdoor experiences that blend the region’s natural beauty with a distinctly local vibe. Whether drifting downriver with a craft beer in hand or hiking through ancient mountains, Cedar Rock offers trips that tap directly into Asheville’s outdoor and craft culture.

Their Floating Bar Crawl Tours are a standout, offering a unique, laid-back way to connect with the French Broad River and the thriving breweries along its banks. Paddlers glide over calm waters, stopping at carefully chosen local taps. With guides like Tim and Cody leading the way, guests enjoy curated brewery stops featuring diverse beer selections and fun, social atmospheres complete with games like cornhole and ping pong. These tours bring together relaxation and camaraderie, making them a memorable mashup of water and brews.

For those who want to go deeper into the mountains, Cedar Rock’s hiking adventures range from half-day to full-day trips across the region’s rugged terrain. Trails snake through forests rich with rhododendron and hardwoods, past cascading waterfalls and rocky overlooks. The Biltmore River Float combines scenic paddling with easy pace, perfect for those who want to soak in river views without strenuous effort.

Cedar Rock Adventures anchors itself as a hub for active visitors looking to embrace Asheville’s outdoors without sacrificing comfort or local flavor. With small group sizes, knowledgeable guides, and a focus on supporting regional breweries and conservation efforts, it’s an authentic entry point into this diverse outdoor playground. Whether on trail or river, Cedar Rock packs each trip with everything you need to enjoy Western North Carolina’s wild side with friends and fellow adventurers.

Adventure Tips

Hydrate before and during the trip

Bring plenty of water for hikes and river floats, as outdoor activity and sun exposure increase dehydration risk.

Wear layers for mountain weather

Temperatures can shift quickly in the Blue Ridge, so dressing in moisture-wicking layers helps adapt to heat or sudden chills.

Secure your belongings on river floats

Use waterproof bags or dry boxes for phones, wallets, and cameras during floating bar crawl tours to protect from splashes and spills.

Scout brewery stops for dietary options

If you have dietary restrictions, check with guides in advance about food and beverage offerings at each bar stop on tours.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Hidden water cascades along the Middle Fork Trail
  • Secluded coves along the French Broad River near Biltmore

Wildlife

  • White-tailed deer
  • River otters

History

The French Broad River is one of the oldest rivers in North America, shaping local Cherokee and settler history over centuries.

Conservation

Cedar Rock Adventures supports local conservation by limiting group sizes and partnering with regional breweries committed to sustainable practices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Late morning for river reflections
Early autumn for vibrant foliage

Best Viewpoints

  • Overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Asheville
  • Riverbank at Hi-Wire Brewing stop
  • Trail summit with panoramic mountain views

What to Photograph

Flowing river scenes
Craft brewery patios
Wildflowers and mountain panoramas

Recommended Gear

Water-resistant hiking boots

Essential

Keeps feet dry and secure on wet or uneven trails around Asheville’s forests and riverbanks.

spring|summer|fall|winter specific

Layered clothing

Essential

Allows for quick adjustments to changing weather during both hiking and floating activities.

spring|summer|fall|winter specific

Reusable water bottle

Essential

Staying hydrated is critical during active outdoor trips in the mountains and river valleys.

Dry bag

Essential

Protects electronics and valuables during river floats and bar crawl tours.

summer|spring|fall specific

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