Kayaking Adventure with Asheville Adventure Company in NC
Experience the serene beauty of the French Broad River with Asheville Adventure Company's self-guided kayaking tour. Perfect for families and nature lovers, paddle at your own pace while spotting local wildlife.
Asheville, NC
•moderate
Kayaking Adventure with Asheville Adventure Company in NC
moderate
Difficulty
2–3 hours
Duration
Participants should be in moderate physical shape, capable of paddling for several hours with some upper body endurance.
Fitness Level
Photo Gallery
About This Experience
Experience the serene beauty of the French Broad River with Asheville Adventure Company's self-guided kayaking tour. Perfect for families and nature lovers, paddle at your own pace while spotting local wildlife.
Located at 521 Amboy Rd, Asheville, NC, Asheville Adventure Company offers an exceptional self-guided kayaking experience on the scenic French Broad River. This river is one of the oldest in the world, winding through the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains and providing paddlers a unique perspective on the lush Appalachian wilderness. Known for its calm waters and rich biodiversity, the French Broad is a peaceful yet engaging setting for adventurers seeking to connect with nature at their own pace.
This private kayaking adventure allows paddlers to embark on a 6-mile route that takes roughly 2.5 hours to complete. As you glide gently downstream, expect to see local wildlife including ducks, turtles, and various bird species thriving in the river’s gentle currents. The trip is particularly family-friendly, with tandem kayaks reserved for adults with young children and single kayaks available for other guests. Staff at Asheville Adventure Company are praised for their professionalism and knowledge, ensuring everyone understands safety protocols and is outfitted with life jackets before launching.
What sets this experience apart is its self-guided format combined with expert support. Adventurers enjoy complete freedom to explore at their own speed, soaking in uninterrupted views of the river’s natural beauty. The French Broad River features diverse habitats from quiet forest-lined sections to areas of modest rapids beneath bridges that add excitement without overly challenging even novice paddlers. Local history enriches the journey, as the river has been a crucial waterway for centuries, originally supporting indigenous communities and early settlers.
Asheville Adventure Company is a valued part of the Asheville outdoor recreation community, known for delivering authentic, accessible river experiences that blend thrill and tranquility. This trip perfectly complements Asheville’s reputation as a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, offering something distinctly different from the mountain hikes and cycling trails that surround the city.
Adventure Tips & Safety
Wear quick-drying clothes
Expect to get a little wet during the kayaking trip, especially when passing under bridges with mild rapids.
essential PriorityArrive early to check in
Staff are friendly and thorough during your safety briefing, so give yourself time before launch.
info PriorityBring waterproof bag for essentials
Keep your phone, keys, and other valuables dry by storing them in a secure waterproof container.
essential PriorityPrepare for varying water conditions
While mostly calm, some sections have rougher waters; prior beginners should feel ready for mild rapids.
warning PriorityRecommended Gear
Waterproof dry bag
EssentialKeeps your belongings safe and dry during the trip.
Best for: null
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
EssentialProtects skin from sun exposure during the outing.
Best for: spring|summer|fall
Quick-dry clothing
EssentialComfortable and practical wear for wet conditions.
Best for: spring|summer|fall
Light insulated layers
Helpful for staying warm during cooler paddling seasons.
Best for: fall|winter
Seasonal Guide
spring
Spring is an ideal time for spotting animals and enjoying fresh blooms, though occasional rain may affect water conditions.
Best For:
- Wildlife viewing
- Cool paddling weather
- Blooming riverside flora
Challenges:
- Variable water levels
- Spring showers
summer
Summer offers long, warm days perfect for paddling, but sun protection and hydration are crucial amidst busier waterways.
Best For:
- Warm water temperatures
- Extended daylight
- Family outings
Challenges:
- Higher sun exposure
- Increased visitor volume
fall
Fall showcases vibrant autumn colors along the riverbanks and provides a refreshing paddling climate, perfect for peaceful excursions.
Best For:
- Stunning foliage colors
- Cool crisp air
- Quieter trails
Challenges:
- Shorter daylight hours
- Cooler water temperatures
winter
Winter paddling offers solitude and striking views of bare trees but demands appropriate cold-weather gear and caution on wet surfaces.
Best For:
- Tranquil scenery
- Less crowded experience
- Unique leafless landscapes
Challenges:
- Cold weather
- Potential slippery docks
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need prior kayaking experience to join?
No, the trip is suitable for beginners with basic paddling instructions and safety briefing provided.
Are life jackets provided?
Yes, all guests receive properly fitted life jackets before launching on the river.
Can I bring my young children?
Tandem kayaks are available for adults with small children, ensuring family-friendly options.
What is the cancellation policy in case of bad weather?
Asheville Adventure Company does not offer refunds for weather-related cancellations, so dress accordingly.
How long is the kayaking route?
The route is approximately six miles and typically takes about 2.5 hours to complete.
Where is the meeting point for the adventure?
All guests meet at 521 Amboy Rd, Asheville, NC 28806 to check in and receive gear.
Photography Tips
Best Photo Spots
- Early morning
- Golden hour
- Late afternoon
Golden Hours
Wildlife such as ducks and turtlesReflections on calm waterAutumn foliage along riverbanks
Recommended Equipment
- Near the Amboy Rd launch site
- Under the river bridges
- Along quiet river bends
Essential Information
Nearby City
Asheville
Activity Details
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in moderate physical shape, capable of paddling for several hours with some upper body endurance.
Technical Skills
- • Basic paddling skills
- • Ability to follow safety instructions
Local Insights
History
The French Broad River, one of the oldest rivers in North America, has long been a vital resource for indigenous peoples and early settlers.
Hidden Gems
- •Quiet side trails near Amboy Bridge
- •Small river islands accessible at low water
Wildlife
- •River turtles
- •Variety of waterfowl including ducks
Experience Level
moderate
Experience Needed: This natural landmark is recommended for those with some outdoor experience.