Explore Asheville’s French Broad River – The World’s Third Oldest River
Things to do and see on Asheville’s French Broad River
While Asheville’s lively downtown, soaring peaks, and rich cultural scene attract countless visitors, it is the French Broad River that truly shaped the city’s evolution. Flowing from south to north—an unusual direction for a river—its ancient waters have carved the Appalachian landscape that surrounds Asheville.
Geologists rank the French Broad as the world’s third oldest river. The name reflects a historic French settlement and the term ‘Broad,’ a traditional descriptor for wide rivers.
‘Geography is destiny,’ explained Karen Cragnolin, Executive Director of RiverLink, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving the French Broad. ‘This ancient river is a designated drinking water source for more than a million people!’
Industrial interest followed the river’s clean, abundant flow, and today it hosts the United States’ second‑ and third‑largest craft breweries. Their success hinges on the river’s pristine water.
‘The French Broad River is very clean. Sometimes it looks brown, but that’s because the banks are eroded, so when it rains we have a lot of sediment and runoff,’ explained Cragnolin.
A playground for everyone
For generations, Western North Carolinians relied on the French Broad for water, food, and transport. Today it serves as a versatile playground for travelers of every age.
Adventure seekers can float in a tube (Zen Tubing), kayak, bellyak, canoe, or paddleboard (SUP), or simply wade along the shoreline. In cooler months, the banks become perfect for walking, jogging, or relaxing at local spots like All Soul’s Pizza in the River Arts District.
Float from Hominy Creek to Pearson Bridge
The seven‑mile stretch from Hominy Creek to Pearson Bridge is a popular self‑guided float trip. The journey begins at French Broad River Park, where Asheville Adventure Rentals offers a range of floating options. Rent or bring your own gear and pay a modest transfer fee.
This float course winds through the River Arts District, home to more than 150 artist studios. Stop to watch ceramicists, woodworkers, and metalworkers create masterpieces, or detour to Wedge Brewing Company for a craft beer break.
‘This stretch is the former industrial section,’ said Cragnolin. ‘It’s also the heart of the entertainment and cultural district. Even though you’re in the middle of industry and the city, you still feel like you are in the country.’
Grab takeout near Getaway River Bar, a local hangout that serves craft beer and mixed drinks.
Self‑guided float trips from Bent Creek through Biltmore
The French Broad Outdoor Center on Amboy Road, the first outdoor center on the river, has been operating for nearly 25 years. Owner Dave Donnell collaborates with nonprofits to preserve the river’s pristine condition and offers rentals and instruction for all floating crafts.
Donnell’s center features a seven‑mile float through Biltmore, surrounded by dense woods and occasional views of the house and inn. This gentle cruise is available year‑round, weather permitting.
Outdoor centers also provide stand‑up paddleboarding lessons—something Donnell highly recommends.
‘Even if you have used SUP in lakes or calm waters, it’s different on a moving current, and you have to watch for rocks and submerged stumps,’ he said.
‘My favorite stretch of the French Broad is through Biltmore,’ said Cragnolin. ‘There’s just something special about the confluence of the French Broad and the Swannanoa.’
Wai Mauna SUP Tours offers exciting group experiences, including a six‑person ‘party barge’ that allows a group to paddle together on a single board. They also offer sunrise SUP tours in addition to daytime sessions.
A New Way to Explore the Water
Asheville’s Adam Masters has designed the Bellyak—a kayak you paddle in the prone position—providing a unique connection to the river. The gear features a custom board and webbed gloves for paddling.
Your Bellyak adventure starts with a quick lesson and a walkthrough of the gloves. Then you’re ready to ‘go prone’ for four miles on the French Broad. Call ahead to book: 828-708-7682.
Check out Bellyaking in this video:
Fishing and whitewater rafting
The French Broad offers world‑class fishing for smallmouth bass, trout, and musky. Curtis Wright Outfitters and other outfitters guide anglers to the best spots.
Whitewater enthusiasts can find thrilling rapids in sections near Asheville. Companies like Blue Heron Whitewater provide rafting experiences.
For those preferring land, Asheville Adventure Rentals and other outdoor centers offer bike rentals. The river’s banks host greenways such as the 4‑½‑mile Carrier Park paved greenway trail and the new Wilma Dykeman Greenway—ideal for bicyclists, walkers, and joggers. Electric bike rentals ease uphill segments. The Asheville Velodrome (formerly Asheville Speedway) offers a resurfaced track for a unique cycling experience.
Kayak photo courtesy of RiverLink.
