THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Experience the thrill of paddling through 5 miles of class II and III rapids on French Broad River’s Section 9, set within the stunning Pisgah National Forest just outside Asheville, NC. This accessible whitewater rafting adventure offers excitement, scenic beauty, and a touch of Appalachian wilderness all in one trip.
Experience the thrill of paddling through 5 miles of class II and III rapids on French Broad River’s Section 9, set within the stunning Pisgah National Forest just outside Asheville, NC. This accessible whitewater rafting adventure offers excitement, scenic beauty, and a touch of Appalachian wilderness all in one trip.
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Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Asheville Adventure Company · Asheville, North Carolina
moderate.
3–4 hours.
Moderate fitness required; comfortable paddling and basic swimming ability recommended.
Yes, Section 9 features class II and III rapids which are fun and manageable for beginners with a basic swim ability and a moderate level of fitness.
Spring through early fall offers the best water levels and weather, with spring bringing higher flows and fall providing milder, calmer conditions.
Typically, participants should be at least 8 years old; however, check with the outfitter for specific age and weight requirements.
All participants receive a personal flotation device (life jacket) and helmet, and guides conduct safety briefings before rafting.
Yes, waterproof cases or dry bags are recommended to protect your electronics while capturing river photos.
The trip requires moderate physical effort mainly in paddling; however, guides offer assistance and instruction to keep it accessible.
Pisgah National Forest, established in 1916, is among the earliest National Forests, rich with Appalachian heritage and ecological diversity.
The outfitter follows strict Leave No Trace principles and promotes river bank preservation to minimize environmental impact on the French Broad.
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.
Book with Asheville Adventure Company