River Tubing Adventures with Beer City Tubing in Arden, NC - Asheville

River Tubing Adventures with Beer City Tubing in Arden, NC

Ashevilleeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; requires ability to sit in a tube for hours and paddle occasionally.

Overview

Drift down a clean, calm river in Arden, NC, with Beer City Tubing’s comfortable floats and seamless shuttle service. Ideal for family days or laid-back group outings, this tubing experience offers comfort and relaxation on the water’s gentle flow.

Details

Located in Arden, North Carolina, just outside Asheville, Beer City Tubing offers a solid dose of laid-back river fun that stands out in the southern Appalachian outdoor scene. This tucked-away stretch of river combines clean, calm water with natural surroundings that feel largely untouched—making it perfect for tubing enthusiasts of all ages and experience levels. The company operates a shuttle service that drops you and your tube at the river’s upper entry point and picks you up downstream, removing the hassle of logistics from your day.

What sets Beer City Tubing apart is the attention to detail in gear and service. Reviewers frequently highlight the quality of their tubes—complete with mesh bottoms for comfort, headrests, and cup holders—turning an ordinary float into a relaxed, cozy experience. The gentle current flows through a mostly natural corridor free from heavy road noise or development, allowing a rare chance to unwind while drifting through lush greenery and occasional glimpses of local wildlife.

The tubing route itself takes around two to three hours, winding along a cleaned-up river section improved after recent hurricane events, with clear instructions on exit points. Staff are described as friendly and efficient, ensuring smooth group rotations and providing paddles when needed, a crucial bonus for steering in some spots. Amenities like clean changing stalls with artificial grass underfoot add thoughtful comfort to your outing.

This trip is especially popular with groups—from family reunions to bachelorette parties—who appreciate the mix of social downtime and mild activity. Remember to pack sunscreen, snacks, and waterproof containers for your valuables, as the only way back to your car is by drifting downstream. Beer City Tubing anchors Arden’s growing reputation for accessible, no-frills outdoor adventures that embrace the area’s slower pace and natural rhythm.

Adventure Tips

Use a Paddle for Control

Even on a calm river, paddles help steer your tube around bends and avoid obstacles.

Bring Waterproof Storage

Pack valuables in dry bags to keep them safe during the float trip.

Wear Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Protect your skin without harming the local aquatic ecosystem.

Plan Return Logistics

The only return from the upper river drop-off is by floating downstream to the pickup point—plan accordingly.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Small picnic areas along the river banks
  • Quiet side coves for wildlife viewing

Wildlife

  • River otters
  • Great blue herons

History

This section of the river has benefited from ongoing local conservation and clean-up efforts following Hurricane Helene’s impact.

Conservation

Beer City Tubing supports sustainable recreation by maintaining the cleanliness of this stretch and educating visitors on minimizing environmental impact.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Morning light
Late afternoon
Golden hour

Best Viewpoints

  • Entry dock
  • Mid-river bends
  • Exit landing area

What to Photograph

Water reflections
Riverbank wildlife
Relaxed groups on tubes

Recommended Gear

Paddle

Essential

Helps you steer and navigate the river safely.

summer specific

Dry Bag

Essential

Keeps your valuables and electronics dry during the float.

Sunscreen

Essential

Protects your skin from sun exposure on open water.

spring specific

Water Shoes

Protect your feet during entry and exit spots on rocky banks.

summer specific