Rafting on the French Broad River / Photo: Chris Burkard

Water Sports

Paddle your own path

Relax or Adventure on Asheville’s Waters

Dive into adventure with water sports in Asheville, where scenic rivers and pristine lakes offer endless opportunities for excitement or relaxation. Whether you're kayaking down the French Broad River, stand-up paddleboarding on serene lakes, or embarking on a thrilling whitewater rafting trip, Asheville's waterways provide the perfect backdrop for aquatic fun. With options for all skill levels and guided tours available, you can explore the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains from a refreshing new perspective.

Many sections of the French Broad River are now open for recreational use following Hurricane Helene, and many outfitters have resumed operations for the season. Plan ahead by checking directly with water activity operators for the latest availability. For details on open and closed river access points, refer to the French Broad Paddle Trail website. You can also check the Asheville Parks and Recreation and Buncombe County Parks & Recreation websites for park status updates. For current river conditions, visit French Broad Water Quality.

Adventures on the Third Oldest River in the World

Asheville’s vibrant urban scene, gorgeous mountains, and cultural treasures may be what draws so many visitors to the area, but the French Broad River is arguably what allowed all these things to emerge.

A person slides down the natural waterfall in front of a line of people with green trees in the background

A 60-Foot Natural Waterslide & Other Water Adventures

While you’ll find many beautiful rivers, lakes and waterfalls to see in the mountains, we suggest doing more than looking. Experience them first-hand with a variety of options.

11 Waterfalls Near Asheville, NC

With hundreds of beautiful cascades near Asheville, where do you begin? Here’s a quick sampler to get you started.

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Blue Ridge Mountain Layers / Photo: James Reynolds