Steadying the inner tube with my right hand, I take a breath and jump in, hitting the water with a splash. No longer tethered to solid ground, I let the current pull me away. Now it finally feels like summer.
Tubing down Asheville’s French Broad River is a quintessential way to survive the mid-year Carolina heat. I always know it’s time to float once it feels too hot to step outside. For my last trip, I gathered friends, sunscreen, and a few cold drinks and started driving north.
After we arrived at Hominy Creek River Park, a popular “put-in” near downtown Asheville, our group approached the water and leapt in, one right after the other. Some were swept downstream quickly, while others lagged behind. I used a low-hanging branch to propel myself towards my fleet. Reaching for a friend’s hand, we tied ourselves together, adjusted our hats, and set sail.
There’s a particular satisfaction that comes from guiding yourself down Asheville’s segment of the French Broad River State Trail, a 117-mile blueway designated by North Carolina in 1978. The trail starts in the southwestern part of the state and runs through four counties before fading into Tennessee. It’s lined with inviting picnic areas, access points, and campsites to encourage recreation.
Some parts of the French Broad require real experience or skill, but floating through the heart of Asheville is an easy, soothing ride. There are no rapids, so kayakers, paddlers, and tubers are all free to wave hello, and the trip is undeniably refreshing.
On our river ride, my group told stories of summer and listened to our laughter bounce off the banks. Together we admired the trees offering shade and shelter. We may have only gone an hour up the road, but to our delight, real life felt a world away.
RIDING THE RIVER
Anything goes on the French Broad; you can rent tubes or bring your own. Rent from outfitters along the water or purchase your own ride from a sporting-goods store. Either way, here’s a tip: buying a tube for your cooler is always a good idea.
Refueling Stops
Wedge Brewing Company
Exit the river at this local watering hole in Asheville’s River Arts District. After drying off and deflating your tubes, revive yourself with Wedge’s craft beer and a rotating roster of neighborhood food trucks. On a hot day, their Julian Price Pilsner is sure to hit the spot. 37 Paynes Way, Asheville; wedgebrewing.com
All Souls Pizza
Also in the River Arts District, All Souls highlights local ingredients and wood-fired pies made from fresh-milled flour and regionally grown grains. Dynamic starters and salads shine alongside their pizza, and all can be enjoyed outside in a laid-back garden setting. 175 Clingman Ave, Asheville; allsoulspizza.com
New Belgium Brewing
Around the corner from All Souls Pizza, this brewery offers a bigger window into the world of craft beer. Sit on their patio overlooking the river you just traveled, while sampling classics like Fat Tire, their beloved amber ale, and Trippel, a big Belgian-style beer that’s had a cult following since the ‘90s. 21 Craven St, Asheville; newbelgium.com/visit/asheville
Illustration by Jamie Green
