Asheville River Tubing on the French Broad

Rating:
ReviewCount: 0
Location: Asheville, USA
Price: $32.50 per person
SupplierName: Zen Tubing
SupplierPhone: +18559368823
SupplierEmail: [email protected]
SimilarExperiences: Ghost Tour, Whitewater Rafting, Electric Bike Tour, Waterfall Tour, Ghost Tour

@Meta Description:

Float down Asheville’s scenic French Broad River on a relaxing, well-organized tubing trip. Perfect for all ages, offering stunning views and easy logistics.

Introduction

If you’re seeking a laid-back way to enjoy Asheville’s natural beauty, the Asheville River Tubing on the French Broad with Zen Tubing is worth considering. While we haven’t tried it ourselves, the experience promises a peaceful float through some of the most scenic stretches of the river, just minutes from downtown Asheville.

Three things stand out about this trip: the easy logistics, family-friendly vibe, and the stunning views of wilderness and historic sites. The convenience of shuttle service, quality tubes, and helpful staff make it an attractive option for those looking to relax without fuss. The only potential drawback is that it’s a shorter, more relaxed experience—if you’re after intense adventure or whitewater thrills, this might not be your scene.

This tour suits families with kids, groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers wanting a peaceful day on the water. It’s particularly appealing if you love scenic landscapes, wildlife sightings, and a stress-free outing.

Good To Know

• Relaxing float on the French Broad River with scenic views and wildlife sightings
• All-inclusive setup with quality tubes, life jackets, paddles, and private transportation
• Ideal for all ages and perfect for families, groups, and solo adventurers
• Affordable value at just $32.50 per person for almost three hours of fun
• Convenient logistics with shuttle service and a fixed meeting point
• Safety and comfort prioritized, with high-quality equipment and helpful staff

An In-Depth Look at Asheville River Tubing Experience

The Location and Accessibility

Starting just 15 minutes upstream from Asheville’s downtown area, Zen Tubing’s spot offers easy access to a calm, picturesque stretch of the French Broad River. This proximity means you can enjoy a day that’s close to the city’s buzz yet feels miles away in serenity. The meeting point at 1648 Brevard Rd in Arden is straightforward to find, and the private shuttle takes care of transporting you to and from the float, removing the usual hassle of parking or trying to navigate to less obvious launch points.

The Duration and Pacing

The float lasts approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, which strikes a good balance—enough time to unwind without feeling exhausted. Reviewers mentioned that the float is “serene and leisurely,” with gentle currents making it easy for everyone, even those unfamiliar with tubing, to enjoy the ride. The relatively short duration ensures you won’t get overly tired, but it’s long enough to soak in the scenery and wildlife.

The Equipment and Comfort

Zen Tubing provides deluxe inner tubes with backrests and drink holders, making the float comfortable and convenient. Reviewers appreciated the quality of the tubes, noting that “the inner tubes felt sturdy and well-maintained.” Paddles are included, in case you want to steer or assist with your float, and life jackets are mandatory and provided at no extra cost—important for peace of mind, especially for families with children.

The Scenic Beauty and Wildlife

The French Broad River in this stretch flows through parts of Pisgah National Forest, offering some truly stunning views. Floating past the Biltmore Estate adds a touch of historical grandeur, while the chance to spot native wildlife makes this experience memorable. As one reviewer put it, “seeing bald eagles and river otters while floating is a highlight I didn’t expect.” Trout and deer along the banks add to the natural allure, making it a visual feast.

The Staff and Service

The operational side of Zen Tubing is seamless, with friendly and helpful staff who handle the logistics so you can focus on relaxing. The shuttle service runs smoothly, and the equipment is well-maintained. Reviewers mention that staff members are knowledgeable and patient, often providing tips about local wildlife or the best spots to enjoy a picnic along the riverbanks.

Value for Money

At $32.50 per person, this float offers good value—especially considering the private transportation, quality gear, and scenic experience. For families or groups, cooler carrier tubes are available for purchase on-site, with recommendations to bring one for every 2-4 people, so you can keep drinks and snacks handy during your float.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for families with children aged 4 and up, looking for a relaxed day out. It’s also perfect for couples and friends seeking a calm, scenic adventure, and for solo travelers wanting a peaceful way to see Asheville’s natural beauty. If you enjoy wildlife, tranquil waters, and stunning scenery, this float will hit the right notes.

Practical Details

Booking and Availability

Most travelers book around 28 days in advance, which indicates decent popularity, especially in peak seasons. The activity is weather-dependent, with poor weather potentially resulting in cancellation or rescheduling. You’ll receive confirmation immediately upon booking, making planning straightforward.

What’s Included and Not Included

The package includes a deluxe inner tube with backrest, paddle, life jacket, and private transportation. You’ll need to bring your own meals or snacks if desired; food isn’t included. There’s no private guide, but the staff’s helpfulness compensates for that, ensuring safety and comfort.

Additional Considerations

The float is safe and suitable for most everyone, but it’s worth noting that the tour’s length is fixed, and there’s no option for guided stops or specialized experiences. The maximum group size is limited to 15 travelers, which keeps the experience intimate and manageable.

Final Thoughts

The Asheville River Tubing trip with Zen Tubing offers a peaceful, scenic, and well-organized way to experience the beauty of the French Broad River. Its convenience, comfortable gear, and wildlife sightings make it a worthwhile choice for travelers wanting a stress-free outdoor activity in Asheville.

While it’s not suited for adrenaline junkies seeking whitewater thrills, it’s perfect for those wanting to relax and enjoy nature. The stunning views, gentle currents, and friendly service make it a memorable outing—especially if you’re traveling with family or friends.

If you value a hassle-free experience that combines natural beauty with comfort and safety, this tubing adventure is a strong pick. It’s a wonderful way to see Asheville’s outdoors at a gentle, leisurely pace.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s safe and enjoyable for kids aged 4 and up, making it great for family outings.

How long does the float last?
The float lasts approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

What’s included in the price?
You get a deluxe inner tube with backrest and drink holder, paddle, life jacket, and private transportation.

Can I bring my own cooler?
Cooler carrier tubes are available to buy on-site, with a recommended one per 2-4 people for snacks and drinks.

What happens in bad weather?
If the weather turns poor, the experience may be canceled or rescheduled, with options for a different date or a full refund.

Are the equipment and staff helpful?
Absolutely. Reviewers praise the staff for their friendliness and the high quality of the gear.

Is the experience crowded?
Group sizes are capped at 15 travelers, ensuring a relaxed and intimate atmosphere.

Do I need to make a reservation?
Yes, most bookings are made around 28 days in advance, especially during peak seasons.

In summary, Asheville River Tubing with Zen Tubing offers a relaxing, scenic float suitable for all ages, with excellent logistics, wildlife sightings, and stunning views. It’s an ideal choice for travelers wanting a peaceful outdoor escape without the fuss—whether for family fun, a romantic day, or solo exploration of Asheville’s natural side.