Asheville River Tubing on the French Broad

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Location: Asheville, USA
Price: $32.50 per person
Supplier Name: Zen Tubing
Supplier Phone: +18559368823
Supplier Email: [email protected]
Similar Experiences: Ghost Tour, Whitewater Rafting, Electric Bike Tour, Waterfall Tour, Ghost Tour

Meta Description

Experience Asheville’s scenic French Broad River on a relaxing float with Zen Tubing. Enjoy stunning views, wildlife, and all-around family-friendly fun for $32.50.

Introduction

Trying to capture the essence of Asheville’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning? This review looks at Zen Tubing’s river float on the French Broad, a popular choice for those wanting a laid-back, scenic adventure. From tranquil waters to wildlife sightings, this float promises a peaceful yet engaging experience amid North Carolina’s lush landscape.

What makes this tubing trip stand out? First, it’s all about ease and comfort—deluxe inner tubes, shuttle service, and helpful staff make it simple to relax. Second, the stunning scenery, with views of the Biltmore Estate and Pisgah National Forest, offers a feast for the eyes. Third, the chance to spot local wildlife like bald eagles, river otters, and deer adds an authentic touch to your day on the water.

A possible consideration? The experience is non-refundable and weather-dependent, meaning if storms roll in, your plans might shift. Still, this makes it clearer for travelers to decide if a peaceful float suits their schedule and preferences.

Ideal for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers seeking a gentle escape, this float is particularly suited for those craving a blend of scenic beauty and relaxation without strenuous activity.

Good To Know

• Affordable Price: At $32.50, the float offers excellent value for a scenic, half-day outdoor experience.
• Family-Friendly: Safe for ages 4 and up, making it suitable for kids and grandparents alike.
• Wildlife Viewing: Many guests mention seeing bald eagles, otters, and deer, adding a natural thrill to the trip.
• Convenient Inclusions: Deluxe tubes with backrests, drink holders, and private transportation are all provided.
• Flexible Options: Cooler carriers are available to purchase on-site, ideal for keeping drinks or snacks handy.
• Weather Policy: The trip is weather-dependent, with options for rescheduling or full refunds if canceled due to poor weather.

Exploring the Itinerary and Experience

Meeting Up and Transportation

The adventure begins at 1648 Brevard Rd, Arden, NC, where Zen Tubing manages all logistics, so you don’t need to worry about shuttling gear or parking. Once you arrive, the staff delivers a brief safety orientation and hands out your deluxe inner tubes—equipped with backrests and drink holders to keep your hands free for floating and taking in the views.

The shuttle service then whisks you upstream, about 15 minutes from downtown Asheville. This short ride is pleasant and sets the tone for a smooth, stress-free outing. You’ll pass through some of the most scenic parts of the area, with natural landscapes and glimpses of the historic Biltmore Estate, immediately building anticipation for the float ahead.

The Float: Scenic, Calm, and Wildlife-Rich

The French Broad River section used for tubing is described as some of the cleanest and most scenic in Asheville. As we’ve seen in reviews, the current here is gentle enough for a relaxing float—perfect for those not wanting thrill-seeking whitewater but still craving stunning scenery.

Guests frequently mention how peaceful and picturesque the surroundings are, with the river winding through parts of Pisgah National Forest. The calm waters provide ample opportunity to spot native wildlife. Expect to see bald eagles soaring overhead, river otters playing in the water, and deer grazing along the banks. Some reviewers noted that trout are visible beneath the surface, adding a lively touch to the serene backdrop.

Duration and Pace

The float lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, a comfortable length that allows plenty of time to enjoy the surroundings without feeling rushed. The gentle flow of the river means you’re mostly floating peacefully, with occasional minor currents encouraging a leisurely drift.

Additional Features for Comfort and Convenience

The inclusion of high-quality tubes with backrests and drink holders significantly enhances comfort, especially during warmer months. Guests have appreciated these thoughtful touches, noting that they allow for relaxing without fatigue.

Considering bringing a cooler carrier tube—available for purchase on-site—is a smart tip, especially for those wanting to keep water, snacks, or even some beverages close at hand. The float isn’t really designed for a picnic, but staying refreshed makes the experience more enjoyable.

The Return and Finish Point

The float concludes back at the original meeting point, so there’s no need to worry about navigating your way back. The shuttle service picks you up at the end of your float, returning you comfortably to your starting location.

Value and Practicalities

Cost and What You Get

At $32.50 per person, this float offers excellent value for such a scenic and relaxing experience. The price includes all necessary gear, transportation, and a designated staff to ensure safety and smooth operation.

Booking and Availability

Most travelers book about 28 days in advance, indicating good demand but also enough flexibility to plan ahead. The process is straightforward with a mobile ticket, making check-in quick and simple.

Considerations and Limitations

While the float is suitable for most, it’s important to note that cancellation is non-refundable—so if the weather turns poor, your options are limited to rescheduling or accepting a full refund. This emphasizes the importance of checking the forecast before booking.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This float is ideal for families with kids, couples seeking a peaceful day, or groups of friends wanting to relax and enjoy nature together. It’s also a good choice for anyone new to tubing or those who prefer a low-key outdoor activity over more adrenaline-fueled adventures.

The Sum Up

For anyone visiting Asheville and craving a gentle, scenic escape, Zen Tubing on the French Broad offers a genuine taste of local beauty. The combination of stunning views, wildlife sightings, and comfortable gear makes it a worthwhile outing that doesn’t break the bank. Whether you’re floating with kids, friends, or solo, this experience stands out as a peaceful way to connect with nature and unwind.

The straightforward logistics, friendly staff, and emphasis on comfort help ensure a smooth day. Plus, the chance to spot bald eagles or otters adds a memorable touch that elevates this beyond just a lazy float. It’s a scenic, laid-back adventure that’s perfect for those wanting to enjoy Asheville’s natural charm without fuss or fussiness.

This float isn’t designed to be an adrenaline rush but rather a peaceful, scenic, and wildlife-rich journey through some of North Carolina’s prettiest landscape. If you’re after a relaxing day on the water with stellar views and friendly service, Zen Tubing hits the mark.

FAQ

Is there a minimum age requirement?
Yes, the float is safe and enjoyable for ages 4 and up, making it a family-friendly option.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers a deluxe inner tube with backrest and drink holder, a paddle, a life jacket, and private transportation to the start point.

Can I bring my own cooler?
You can purchase a cooler carrier tube on-site—it’s recommended to have one for every 2-4 people to keep drinks and snacks handy.

What should I wear?
Light, quick-drying clothing and waterproof footwear or sandals are best. Remember, it’s a water activity so avoid valuables or delicate items.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Since the experience is weather-dependent, poor weather could lead to cancellation. You’ll be offered a reschedule or a full refund if that occurs.

How long does the float last?
The floating itself takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, offering a relaxed pace to enjoy the scenery.

Is transportation included?
Yes, private shuttle service is part of the package, bringing you comfortably to the upstream start point and back at the end.

Can I book last-minute?
Most travelers book about 28 days in advance, so last-minute bookings might be limited depending on availability.

Asheville’s French Broad River float with Zen Tubing offers a soothing, scenic escape perfect for all ages. With comfortable gear, wildlife viewing, and stunning surroundings, it provides a charming slice of outdoor tranquility—well worth considering for your trip to North Carolina.