Thrill and Chill: Whitewater Tubing the French Broad River in Marshall, NC
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness recommended to maneuver with rapids and walk short distances during entry/exit points.
Overview
Experience a perfect blend of gentle rapids and scenic floats with this 3-hour tubing trip on the French Broad River near Marshall, NC. Ideal for adventure seekers wanting excitement and relaxation alike.
5-mile Trip
3 Hours • Must be 50lbs to float!
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About This Adventure
Experience the thrill of whitewater tubing on the French Broad River! This 3-hour adventure combines exciting class 1+ rapids with gentle stretches, perfect for those seeking a bit of action. Enjoy a scenic float, bring a picnic, and make unforgettable memories as you navigate the river's playful currents.
Let's Adventure
Duration
3 Hours
About
Whitewater tubing the French Broad River section 7 is an exciting river tubing trip that offers an adventurous a mix of class 1+ whitewater and mild class 0 in between. On average, this trip will provide around 3 hours of tubing fun. It is for the Tuber looking for a little more adventure on the river, which does require the Tuber to maneuver through small rolling rapids.This is an active float trip. Bring a cooler and have a picnic along the way!
What to wear?
-Comfortable clothing/ bathing suit YOU WILL GET WET! -Shoes with heel strap like old sneakers, sandals, water shoes ABSOLUTELY NO FLIP FLOPS OR BARE FEET! -sunscreen or sun-protective clothing -hat and/or sunglasses with strap
What to bring?
- Towel
- Dry clothes to change into after trip
- Small cooler or cooler bag- ABSOLUTELY NO STYROFOAM!
- Beverages in plastic bottle or aluminum cans- ABSOLUTELY NO GLASS ON RIVER!*
- Something to contain your trash- Pack it in Pack it out!
- Phones and cameras are carried at your own risk.
More Information
Participants must be at least 50lbs!
Adventure Tips
Wear a life jacket
Always wear the provided life jacket to stay safe on the river’s rapids and calm stretches.
Bring water shoes
Protect your feet from river rocks and slippery surfaces with sturdy water shoes.
Apply waterproof sunscreen
The combination of water and sun can intensify exposure—use waterproof sunscreen for protection.
Secure personal items
Use waterproof bags or leave valuables onshore to keep them safe during your float.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Belted kingfishers diving for fish
- White-tailed deer frequenting river edges
History
The French Broad River is one of the oldest rivers in North America, carving its path long before the Appalachian Mountains fully formed.
Conservation
The outfitter practices Leave No Trace principles and works with local groups to keep the river habitat healthy and clean.
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Adventure Hotspots in Marshall
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Water shoes
Needed to navigate slippery rocks and protect your feet in the river.
summer specific
Quick-dry clothing
Keeps you comfortable when wet and dries fast during sunny breaks.
summer specific
Waterproof sunscreen
Protects you from UV rays during extended sun exposure on the river.
summer specific
Waterproof dry bag
Keeps phones, snacks, and other essentials dry throughout the trip.