Journey Details
The paddle will start at the confluence of the North and West Forks of the French Broad River and wind through farmland under a canopy of trees before widening to reveal the stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains. The river cuts through the Biltmore Estate, and paddlers will catch a unique view of the majestic house. We will have an afternoon to explore the Biltmore Estate grounds and tour the winery. Just past the Biltmore Estate, the river flows through the city of Asheville before beginning a slow tumble into its whitewater section. Mountains and cliffs rise straight from the water’s edge as the river dissects Pisgah National Forest. Finally, a series of class II, III, and IV rapids rumble their way into Hot Springs, just a few miles from the border of Tennessee.
This trip features some of the most stunning scenery in the region, and we will highlight and sample for several water quality threats to the watershed, including E. coli and heavy metals.
Camping has been arranged for each night of the trip, providing a rare opportunity to canoe down and sleep next to the entire French Broad River in North Carolina. There will be a great barbecue lunch, evening dinner in some towns along the way, and you can catch your fill of small mouth bass while enjoying the company of other paddlers on the river and around the fire.
This is a great trip for families and beginners. Days 7 and 9 have a few rapids, but not to fear, the most experienced paddler will be in rafts for the big rapids on day 8. Shuttling around the rapids is an option for kids or beginners. A van will be provided each day for shuttling and transporting gear. The trip will be limited to about 20 people a day so everyone can enjoy the quiet beauty of the river. Register now, because space will fill up fast!
