Your Summer 2025 Guide to the French Broad River

Much of the French Broad River is open for paddling, strolling, tubing, and soaking up Asheville’s summer sunshine thanks to rapid recovery efforts after Hurricane Helene. And there’s never been a better time to reconnect with this iconic waterway — or lend a hand in helping it heal. 

If you're seeking river serenity or chasing that perfect paddle, here's what you need to know about where to go, what’s open, and how to play it safe while supporting the river’s recovery. 

Open Water Outfitters & Tour Providers 

These Asheville area tours & outfitters are ready to launch your next summer adventure! 

If you’re looking for a tubing adventure down the French Broad:

• Zen Tubing is back and better than ever at their Brevard Road location! Glide effortlessly down the French Broad River on their deluxe tubes—complete with comfy headrests, paddle options, and cooler carriers to keep the party going. With free parking, a convenient shuttle, and all gear included, relaxation is just a float away!
• Based in Marshall, Green Flash Watersports outfitter offers tubing on some of the most peaceful and picturesque parts of the French Broad. It is a great option for laid-back adventurers and nature lovers alike.
• Enjoy a chill two-mile float near Asheville with gentle currents and beautiful scenery with Asheville Adventure Company. Great for first timers and families looking for a low-key river day. 

If you want the thrill of white-water rafting:

• Blue Heron Whitewater offers an exciting range of rafting trips tailored to all ages and skill levels. Whether you're in the mood for a relaxing float or an adrenaline-pumping full-day journey through thrilling rapids, there’s a perfect trip waiting. Want to soak up the sunshine and scenery without breaking a sweat? The scenic float trip is ideal for families with young kids or anyone looking for a laid-back ride. Ready to dive into an all-day adventure? The full-day rafting trip—with lunch included—is packed with paddling, splashes, and mountain magic.
• Experience guided rafting with one of the most trusted names in Southern Appalachian adventure. Located in Marshall, the Nantahala Outdoor Center outpost on the French Broad offers a blend of mild and moderate rapids that make it perfect for families, groups, or those new to whitewater rafting. 

If you want to kayak:

• Glide past the historic Biltmore Estate on this peaceful paddle trip through the heart of Asheville with Asheville Adventure Company. With mellow waters and iconic views, it's a one-of-a-kind way to see the city from the river. Great for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike.
• Hike Bike Kayak Asheville offers guided kayak tours that explore the beauty of Western North Carolina from the water. From tranquil nature paddles to more adventurous excursions, this local outfitter delivers scenic serenity and fun. 

If you want your paddling with pints:

• Cedar Rock Adventures offers guided trips down the French Broad River with brewery stops built in. Think sunshine, scenic river stretches, and a well-earned pint at one of Asheville’s local breweries. Perfect for casual paddlers who want adventure with a side of IPA.
• Green Flash Watersports offers “paddle-to-pub” experiences where you can enjoy a float on the river and end up at a local watering hole. It’s the best of WNC—beautiful scenery, friendly vibes, and craft beer. 

If you want to SUP:

• For a fun and balanced adventure on the water, try stand-up paddleboarding with SUP Asheville. These guided trips take you along calm stretches of the French Broad River with stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Asheville skyline. Great for beginners or anyone looking to mix a little fitness with their float.
• Wai Mauna Asheville SUP Tours offers unforgettable stand-up paddleboarding experiences along the French Broad River, with options ranging from peaceful sunrise “Dawn Patrol” tours to scenic 4- and 7-mile guided paddles past the River Arts District and even the Biltmore Estate. Each tour includes equipment, instruction, and shuttle service, making it easy for beginners and experienced paddlers alike to enjoy the river. With private group options, affordable pricing, and stunning mountain views, Wai Mauna delivers one of the most unique and serene ways to experience Asheville from the water.

If you want to canoe: 

• Asheville Canoe House is a chill, no-bricks-needed outfitter that sets you up on calm sections of the French Broad. Options include half-day rental, multi-day rentals, or a sunset trip, perfect for a golden-hour glide.

If you want to go fishing:

The French Broad River winds through Asheville and the surrounding mountains, offering one of the most accessible and rewarding fishing experiences in Western North Carolina. Known for its healthy populations of smallmouth bass, trout, and even musky, this river supports a variety of fishing adventures.

• If you want to go fishing in the Asheville area, the French Broad River is a prime destination, and Asheville Fly Fishing Company makes the most of it. This award-winning guide service offers everything from relaxed smallmouth bass float trips to whitewater adventures down Class III-IV rapids, complete with overnight camps. With over 400 miles of water access, expert guides, and all gear provided, they tailor each trip to your skill level, making it easy for beginners and rewarding for seasoned anglers.
• Based in Asheville, Southern Appalachian Anglers is a full-service guide company that runs float and wade trips on the French Broad. Their drift boat excursions are popular for targeting smallmouth bass and seasonal trophy musky. They provide all equipment and customize trips based on your interests and skill level.
• Rent this Rod Outfitters is based near the French Broad in Black Mountain and rents quality fly gear like rods, reels, waders, and boots. It's perfect for anglers who want to explore the river with a complete setup in hand.

BYO-Boat: Open Parks, Greenways and River Access Points 

Several beloved parks, greenways, and river access points have officially reopened, offering plenty of ways to get back outside and enjoy the beauty of the French Broad: 

Fully Open: 

• Amboy Riverfront Park
• Jean Webb Park
• Craven Street Trailhead Park
• Craven Street Bridge Boating Access
• Wilma Dykeman Greenway
• Bent Creek River Park
• Glen Bridge River Park
• Corcoran Paige River Park
• Ledge River Park (Alexander)

These areas are perfect for riverside picnics, casual walks, bike rides, or launching a kayak or tube with local outfitters like Zen Tubing (now open on Brevard Road) and Wrong Way Campground (accepting guests and helping them find access points). 

Partially Open: 

• Carrier Park (picnic shelter, rolling lawn, and east lot open; sports fields and velodrome closed)
• French Broad River Greenway
• Open: From Hominy Creek River Park to Amboy Riverfront Park, and from Craven Street to French Broad River Park
• Closed: The portion within French Broad River Park to Amboy Riverfront Park 

Still Closed: 

• French Broad River Park
• Alexander River Park (Marshall)
• Walnut Island (Alexander)
• Pearson Bridge River Access Area
• Before heading out, always check Asheville Parks & Recreation and Buncombe County Parks for real-time park status. Check updated conditions at the French Broad Paddle Trail Web Map 

Voluntourism & Cleanups 

Want to give back while you explore? Organizations like MountainTrue and RiverLink are leading hands-on cleanups and habitat restoration efforts to help the river bounce back stronger than ever. 

Riverkeeper Beer Series 
Enjoy great local brews and help clean the river! Join one of several fun, social cleanups with local breweries this summer: 

• August 9 – Wedge Brewing (Asheville)
• August 23 – Hi-Wire Brewing (Asheville) 

Bring your own boat if you have one — or let the team know and they’ll hook you up! 
Sign up on MountainTrue.org 

Start Your French Broad Adventure!

The French Broad River’s story is one of resilience, community, and connection — and it's yours to experience. With new greenways, reopening parks, volunteer opportunities, and river-ready guides on hand, summer 2025 is shaping up to be a season like no other.