easy
2–3 hours
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires ability to sit in a tube for hours and paddle occasionally.
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.
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.
Even on a calm river, paddles help steer your tube around bends and avoid obstacles.
Pack valuables in dry bags to keep them safe during the float trip.
Protect your skin without harming the local aquatic ecosystem.
The only return from the upper river drop-off is by floating downstream to the pickup point—plan accordingly.
This section of the river has benefited from ongoing local conservation and clean-up efforts following Hurricane Helene’s impact.
Beer City Tubing supports sustainable recreation by maintaining the cleanliness of this stretch and educating visitors on minimizing environmental impact.
Helps you steer and navigate the river safely.
summer specific
Keeps your valuables and electronics dry during the float.
Protects your skin from sun exposure on open water.
spring specific
Protect your feet during entry and exit spots on rocky banks.
summer specific