Discover a peaceful rafting adventure along the French Broad River with Asheville Adventure Company, perfect for families. Glide past the Biltmore Estate, spot local wildlife, and enjoy a day of gentle floating in scenic surroundings. Read on to learn more about this laid-back yet memorable outdoor experience.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, including children and seniors
Wildlife
History
The French Broad River has powered Asheville’s mills for over a century, shaping the region’s economic development.
Conservation
The Asheville Adventure Company emphasizes sustainability, ensuring minimal impact through responsible guiding and conservation practices.
Asheville Adventure Company
Discover a peaceful rafting adventure along the French Broad River with Asheville Adventure Company, perfect for families. Glide past the Biltmore Estate, spot local wildlife, and enjoy a day of gentle floating in scenic surroundings. Read on to learn more about this laid-back yet memorable outdoor experience.
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.
Location
Asheville, NC
Based in Western North Carolina
River Trips
French Broad River
Multiple sections and styles
Max Capacity
42 people
Largest party bus capacity
Typical Duration
2.5–3.5 hrs
Common trip length
Book kayaking, tubing, guided or private rafting, or a party bus rental on the French Broad River — limited availability for peak season dates.
Wear quick-drying clothing
Opt for lightweight, quick-drying clothes suitable for swimming and getting wet.
Bring sun protection
Use sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect against sun exposure during the float.
Pack water and snacks
Stay hydrated and energized with plenty of water and light snacks for the trip.
Follow guide instructions
Listen carefully to your guide’s safety guidelines and environmental tips.
Swimsuit
Allows for comfortable swimming and getting wet during the float.
summer
Sun hat
Provides sun protection while on the water.
all
Sunscreen
Protects your skin from UV rays during outdoor activities.
summer
Water shoes or sandals
Good for walking on rocks or riverbanks during stops.
spring-fall