Long before Asheville had breweries, bike lanes, or a skyline, it had the French Broad River. Flowing north when most rivers in this part of the country head south, it carves its own path through mountain valleys and city parks alike.
Geologists describe the French Broad as one of the oldest rivers in the world. Around here, we simply think of it as essential. It shaped the land. It helped build the city. It supplies drinking water to the region. And on any given afternoon, it carries kayaks, tubers, anglers, and quiet reflections in equal measure.
If you’re wondering how to experience it well, start here.
PLEASE NOTE: The French Broad River is open for recreation! Thanks to the collective efforts of government agencies, non-profit organizations, and local businesses, access points have largely been restored. You can check the status of specific sites on the French Broad Paddle Trail website, and check in directly with land managers by contacting Buncombe County, City of Asheville, and Town of Woodfin. We look forward to seeing you on and around our river!
What Are the Best Things to Do on the French Broad River in Asheville?
Float the River
Few summer rituals feel more Asheville than floating the French Broad. Calm stretches near town are ideal for relaxed tubing trips, where the current does most of the work and the mountains handle the scenery.
Outfitters like Zen Tubing (with private river access and shuttle service), Asheville Adventure Company (known for an easy, low-key float near Asheville), and French Broad Outfitters (in-town tubing plus other river rentals) take care of the details—tubes, shuttles, and the smooth logistics that let you focus on drifting.
GreenFlash Watersports offers a “shredder kayak” tubing option (cross-over boats between a kayak and a tube) if you want a little more steering with your float.
Whitewater Rafting
Head downstream and the river picks up a little personality. On the French Broad, guided trips on Class II–III rapids deliver that sweet spot—lively, splashy, and approachable, with scenery doing half the work.
Local outfitters like Blue Heron Whitewater, Nantahala Outdoor Center’s French Broad outpost, French Broad Adventures, and Asheville Adventure Company run half-day and full-day trips that match your group’s comfort level, from family-friendly floats to more adrenaline-forward runs.
Kayak, Canoe & Stand-Up Paddleboard
Prefer to set your own pace?
For stand-up paddleboarding, SUP Asheville offers guided trips on calm stretches of the French Broad. Wai Mauna Asheville SUP Tours also runs guided paddles and rentals, including sunrise “Dawn Patrol” outings and group-friendly Party Barge sessions.
Asheville Adventure Company offers calm-water kayaking and self-guided paddles along scenic stretches of the French Broad, plus shuttle support to make planning easy. Hike Bike Kayak Asheville also offers guided kayak tours that explore the French Broad at an easy, scenic pace. For classic canoe outings on flatwater, Asheville Canoe House connects visitors with relaxed half-day or sunset paddles.
For a social paddle, GreenFlash Watersports runs guided kayak and SUP brewery floats through the River Arts District, while Cedar Rock Adventures offers a similar river-to-brewery vibe by raft or canoe—routes shifting based on conditions and what’s open.
Fish the French Broad
The French Broad rewards patience. Anglers cast for smallmouth bass, musky, carp, catfish, and seasonal species along its broad, steady current—sometimes from the banks, often by floating into deeper runs and quieter bends.
For guided French Broad days, partners like Southern Appalachian Anglers, Asheville Fly Fishing Company, and Asheville Drifters offer float and wade trips tailored to conditions and the bite.
The river also flows through Biltmore Estate, where anglers can book guided fly-fishing experiences and instruction on estate waters.
For gear and local intel before you head out, Curtis Wright Outfitters, Hunter Banks Fly Fishing, and Rent this Rod Outfitters are solid starting points.
Explore the Riverbanks
You don’t have to get wet to enjoy the French Broad.
Walk or ride the Wilma Dykeman Greenway through the River Arts District—a paved path tucked between Riverside Drive and the river, dotted with public art and easy river views as it threads past studios and riverfront pockets.
If you want wheels, rent an e-bike from The Flying Bike or Asheville E-Bikes, or join Asheville Trails & Taps for a guided ride that can roll right into the RAD. Settle in at Carrier Park, French Broad River Park, or Hominy Creek River Park for wide-open space and shaded spots to linger—then wander into the River Arts District, where working studios sit just steps from the water and the river’s current feels like part of the soundtrack.
PLEASE NOTE: Portions of Carrier Park remain closed due to damage from Tropical Storm Helene. The west side—including the velodrome, courts, playground, and sports field—is currently inaccessible. The east side, picnic areas, and French Broad River Greenway remain open. Please use caution and follow all posted signage and staff instructions while enjoying the area.
Help the River Thrive
The French Broad is both playground and lifeline. Local organizations like like MountainTrue and RiverLin work year-round to protect its health and improve access. Join a hands-on cleanup or habitat restoration effort while you're in town. Bring your own boat if you have one — or let the team know and they’ll hook you up! Sign up on MountainTrue.org
