Floating the French Broad

Ah yes, the heat has most certainly arrived in Western North Carolina! We plan on enjoying the season change to the fullest, and that means planning float trips down the French Broad River. For those that have yet to experience this relaxing, languid summer activity, we've put together a short introduction to help you experience it to the fullest. Read on for some local tips!

 

Traveling down the French Broad River in an inner-tube, or as we call it, "floating", is a time honored summer tradition. Each year, locals and visitors alike enjoy this slow, lazy activity that winds them through forests and open air sections of the river, alongside breweries and past local artist studios. This is a beloved area adventure - one that allows you to look around and take in the beauty, contemplate all the wonderful aspects of living in the mountains of Western North Carolina, and socialize with other tubers as they make their own trek down the warm waters of the French Broad.

We have amazing companies like Zen Tubing that will do all the planning for you, but many floaters prefer to set their own destiny, so to speak. Those looking for a longer day on the water may choose to put in at Hominy Creek River Park in West Asheville (just a bit north of the Biltmore Estate). From this point, there are plenty of docking locations in Asheville, so really the trip can be as long or as short as you like. Another option for putting in is Carrier Park, located in the River Arts District and about a mile and a half from Hominy Creek. Jean Webb River Park is located about 2 miles further downstream, so for those that just want a quick afternoon jaunt, this would be the spot for you. As we say, there are plenty of locations for docking your inner-tube, but we recommend going all the way downstream to The Bywater - a local favorite that boasts a large outdoor area, a family friendly atmosphere, grills, and outdoor games. It's located right on the banks of the French Broad, so ending your float trip there is a logical decision!

This is simply an enjoyable way to spend the afternoon. While we do boast a plethora of adrenaline inducing activities, this is one that is at its core an invitation to slow down, relax, and enjoy the world as it is. The sun will warm you up, so you may choose to hop off your tube or raft at some point and swim the waters, or you may travel the entire section of river without getting wet at all! You can also expect to socialize with friends, strangers, or acquaintances who had the same idea as you. Dozens of inner-tubes float down the river on any given summer day, so this is a great experience to meet new people, learn some new things, and just in general have a righteously good time! Oh, and don't forget to bring a cooler with some snacks, ice, and plenty of hydrating beverages - it is summer in the South, after all!

Staying in your own home away from home is a decision that will undoubtedly bring your summer getaway in the mountains to the next level of fun. Carolina Mornings has dozens of phenomenal vacation rentals in and around the Asheville area, some with their own water features! For an eclectic, pet friendly rental, check out Pond Cove Cabin. Nestled on 100 stunning private acres, Pond Cove Cabin boasts a large, comfortable outdoor deck, a breezy chalet-style cabin, and a large pond just a short stroll from the house. The fully equipped kitchen, gas grill, and outdoor entertaining area are just icing on the cake!