French Broad River Tubing
Rating
Family of 4
$60-80: tube rentals typically $15-20 per person including shuttle
Duration
2-4 hours on the water
Best Ages
Best for ages 7 and up
About
Floating the French Broad River is one of those Asheville summer experiences that locals do every year and visitors miss entirely. The river runs right through the city and the surrounding countryside, and tubing or kayaking it is one of the most relaxing ways to spend a summer afternoon with kids who have energy to burn.
Several rental companies operate along the French Broad, offering tube and kayak rentals with shuttle service back to the put-in. The typical float is 4-6 miles through gentle Class I-II water — ideal for families with kids 7 and up. There are sandy beaches and calm pools for swimming, and the occasional small rapid that provides a burst of excitement.
The experience requires planning. Sunscreen is non-negotiable — you'll be on reflective water for 2-4 hours with limited shade. Water shoes that actually stay on are important (flip-flops wash off). A waterproof bag or dry bag for phones and valuables is worth packing.
Adventure Bound USA and French Broad River Outpost are two operators with solid family reputations. Weekday floats are noticeably less crowded than weekend trips.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
No
Nursing / Changing
Not Available
Kid Meals
Not Available
Setting
Outdoor
Rainy Day
Not ideal
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
July-August for warmest water and weather — go early to beat afternoon thunderstorms
Wait Times
15-20 min to get tubes and launch
Nearby Food
Pack a cooler and snacks for the river. Asheville's west side has good restaurants 10-15 minutes from most river access points.
Why Kids Love It
Tubing the French Broad River is one of Asheville's quintessential summer activities. You drift downstream through the mountains for a few miles, stopping at gentle rapids, exploring sandbars, and swimming. The pace is relaxed enough for families but interesting enough to hold kids' attention for hours.
Pro Tips from Parents
- Apply and reapply sunscreen aggressively — you're on the water for 2-4 hours with significant sun exposure.
- Wear old clothes or a swimsuit you don't mind getting wet and possibly dirty.
- The river level varies with rainfall — check with the rental company before going. After heavy rain, currents can be stronger than usual.
What to Bring
- Swimsuit
- Water shoes that strap on
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Waterproof bag for phone
- Cash for rental
Cost Info
Estimated Cost (Family of 4)
$60-80: tube rentals typically $15-20 per person including shuttle
Tips to Save
- Bring your own water shoes and snacks.
- Sunscreen is essential — you're on the water for hours with no shade.
Hours & Contact
Hours
- Friday
- 9AM-5PM (May-Sep)
- Sunday
- 9AM-5PM
- Saturday
- 9AM-5PM
