Top Asheville On the Water

One of the country’s favorite rafting rivers, experiencing Asheville’s French Broad River is a paddler’s rite of passage. On this guided tour, you’ll raft through four miles of Class II and III rapids, stopping for river dips, taking in the views of the surrounding Pisgah National Forest, and eventually ending with an Asheville tradition: a cold, local craft beer.

One of the most biodiverse spots in the nation, the Blue Ridge Parkway shouldn’t just be driven—it deserves to be seen on foot, with a naturalist leading the way. With your guide at the helm, you and your small group will hike to gorgeous waterfalls, up to panoramic mountain views, and through the technicolor meadows, hills, and valleys that make Asheville and the Pisgah National Forest so beloved.

Get onto the clam waters of Bent Creek near the Biltmore property in Asheville on this self-guided kayak tour. Your kayaks, paddles, and life jackets are all provided for you, so all you need to do is show up ready to have an adventure. When you’re finished kayaking, wind down at the Outpost with a beer.

This is hands down the best tubing trip in Asheville! This trip leaves from our beautiful three acre outpost located right across the French Broad River from the outskirts of the historic Biltmore property. We believe that we have crafted the perfect length float, typically between two and three hours, to relax, soak up some sun, and have a great time with friends and family. We keep all of our trips small so that every trip feels private and special. After your tube, we bring you back to our outpost where you can have a cold drink at our bar or enjoy live music and games on the weekend.

Asheville comes loaded with two things: great breweries and great nature. On this tour, you’ll get to revel in them both. Your guide will have your raft ready—complete with an ice-filled cooler—and you’ll float down the beautiful French Broad River, stopping at a few of the city’s best pubs and food trucks. This one’s all about relaxing, river views, and really good beer.

Asheville pops out of the Blue Ridge Mountains, one of the most biodiverse spots on Earth. On this tour, simply meet up with your small group, take a short ride into Pisgah National Forest, and follow the way into the “Land of Waterfalls.” Your guide will provide hiking poles, rain gear, water, snacks, and plenty of knowledge to deepen your experience in this incredible slice of Mother Nature.

Discover Asheville’s noteworthy landmarks and architectural gems while covering plenty of ground. 3 Hours (Approximately) tour by electric bike lets you safely navigate Asheville’s hilly terrain. Follow your guide through city streets, greenways, and picturesque neighborhoods. At carefully chosen viewpoints, you’ll stop to hear the stories behind historical sites.

Follow your guide on a 45-minute horseback riding adventure at Arrowmont Stables and Cabins outside of Asheville, North Carolina. Choose from a variety of departure times, and ride the beautiful Fern Forest Trail, traveling through a dense forest on relatively flat terrain at 4,000 feet. This gentle trail, situated in the Nantahala National Forest, is suitable for all skill levels. Guided safety training plus a ‘test drive’ and helmet (mandatory for those under 18) are provided.

Horseback riding through the Blue Ridge Mountains is a beautiful way to explore the area’s natural attractions. Trot through fern groves, past rows of wild flame azaleas, and into a white pine forest on well-trained, gentle horses. This tour includes a safety training, too, making it a good choice for beginner horseback riders and children.

Take a spooky stroll through the streets of downtown Asheville on this ghost walking tour. Led by an expert local guide, learn about the area’s hair-raising tales and dark history, like the woman who haunts the Omni Grove Park Inn, the body entombed in the wall of the Basilica of St. Lawrence and much more. It's a fascinating, spine-tingling adventure.

Hike the best of the Blue Ridge Parkway on this guided day trip to three scenic waterfalls from Asheville. Take in views of the mountains as you tour the classic road in a comfortable van and hear stories about the area’s natural history and culture from your local guide. Watch for blooming laurels and rhododendron as you walk the easy to moderate trails through lush oak and hickory forests. Enjoy light refreshments along the way with plenty of time to relax by the falls before returning to Asheville.

Cycle to three of Asheville’s most popular microbreweries, enjoying a drink at the first location. You’ll be riding a state-of-the-art e-bike, so the hills won’t be a problem. In addition to soaking up the local vibe and great scenery, you’ll sample some of the best craft brews in town. If you like beer and bikes, you'll love this tour.

Asheville’s reputation as one of the top cities for brews in the Southeast is well-deserved, but the huge number of breweries to choose from can be intimidating for visitors. Discover which breweries are worth the hype on this Asheville brewery tour, which takes you to craft breweries with behind-the-scene access and ample pours at each. Unlike other Asheville brewery tours, this one is led by a certified cicerone, a recognized expert when it comes to beer.

Explore the "Paris of the South"—Asheville, North Carolina—on a Segway during this 2-hour guided tour. Traveling via Segway allows you to cover much more ground than you would on foot, which makes this a great comprehensive tour for first-time visitors. You'll get lessons on how to maneuver the 2-wheeled, self-balancing electric scooter before you depart; even beginners will feel safe and comfortable.

Maximize time in Downtown Asheville with a sightseeing tour led by a local guide. Learn about Asheville's history and culture during a city stroll that includes breweries, distilleries, cafes, and historic sites. See popular landmarks like the Basilica of St. Lawrence, Grove Arcade, and the Leaf Global Arts Center. Taste local beer and spirits during brewery and distillery visits. In lieu of a tour ticket, tip your guide whatever amount you find fair.

Take a kayak trip along the French Broad River with this semi-private tour led by a naturalist. You'll paddle through town, passing local attractions such as the Biltmore Estate along the way. Your guide will be on hand to provide narration and answer any question you have about the natural world around you.

Explore the historic French Broad River in Asheville on a stand-up paddleboard during this guided, 2.5-hour, small-group tour. Float through the city’s calm, downtown waterway and learn about the history of the region while participating in one of Asheville’s most popular activities. Paddleboarding experience is helpful but not necessary. All equipment — paddleboard, paddle, personal flotation device, leash, river booties and dry bag — are included.

This is a certified naturalist led kayak tour around Lake Lure, located in the North Carolina Mountains. A serene lake and blue sky...what could be better? Your guide will also point out local flora and fauna and talk to you about the history of the area. Feel free to jump in and swim!

Paddle 7 miles (11 km) with a private guide on the picturesque French Broad River. You’ll pass by Asheville’s massive Biltmore Estate and hear about its history. Learn stand-up paddleboarding tips and techniques from your SUP instructor and keep an eye out for native wildlife like turtles, herons, otters, and osprey. Enjoy the fresh air and exercise during a morning or afternoon.

Anyone can get on a kayak and paddle around a lake or river. However, our guides bring you right to the destination! Whether it be a waterfall hidden on of our national forests, or a secret honey-hole for bass fishing! The boats and gear will be ready and in the water for you when you arrive to the lake! which means all you need to do is apply some sunscreen and put on a life vest before heading out onto the water.

Lead by a certified naturalist, the Lake James kayak tour is a half day tour spent on a serene lake beneath blue skies. Along the way your guide will point out the flora and fauna of the area along with some history.

This trip is perfect for ever experience level, from beginner to experienced rafters and for individuals, families, or couples! We are the longest continually operating outfitter on the French Broad and our professionally trained guides will navigate you down the river, sharing the French Broad’s rich history, and pointing out flora and fauna.