7 Mile Guided Paddleboard Tour On The French Broad River in Asheville

Introduction

Our review of the 7 Mile Guided Paddleboard Tour on the French Broad River in Asheville introduces a popular way to see one of North Carolina’s most beloved waterways. If you’re looking for a mix of gentle adventure, local wildlife, and a spot of exercise, this tour fits the bill nicely. While we haven’t personally paddled the French Broad, the glowing reviews suggest it’s an experience worth considering.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is its focus on learning stand-up paddleboarding from a certified instructor and the chance to spot native wildlife like turtles, herons, otters, and even black bears. Plus, the fact that it includes all necessary equipment and a shuttle from Asheville makes it straightforward and accessible for most travelers.

However, a potential consideration is the moderate physical activity involved—not strenuous, but you’ll need a reasonable level of fitness. And since it’s a private tour, it’s best suited for those who want a personalized experience away from large groups. If you enjoy outdoor activities that combine scenic beauty with a bit of adventure, this paddleboard trip might just be your new favorite way to explore Asheville.

Key Points

• Scenic Route: Paddle 7 miles along the picturesque French Broad River with views of Asheville’s iconic Biltmore Estate.
• Wildlife Watching: Opportunities to see native animals like turtles, herons, otters, and possibly black bears.
• Expert Guidance: Learn stand-up paddleboarding tips from a certified instructor tailored to your skill level.
• All-Inclusive: Equipment, guide, and shuttle are provided, simplifying logistics.
• Flexible Timing: Available in both morning and afternoon sessions.
• Community Impact: $5 of each booking goes to RiverLink, supporting watershed restoration.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

Meeting and Starting Point

The adventure kicks off at the Asheville Outdoor Center in West Asheville, a convenient location just off Amboy Road. Here, you’ll park your car, check in, and hop on an air-conditioned shuttle to Bent Creek, the starting launch site. The shuttle ride itself is a nice touch, saving you the trouble of figuring out transportation and allowing you to relax before hitting the water.

Equipment and Instruction

Once at Bent Creek, your guide— a friendly, certified instructor—will fit you with a life jacket, paddle, and river booties, then give a brief lesson on paddleboarding basics. This instruction is especially helpful if you’re new to the sport, but even seasoned paddlers might appreciate some pro tips or tricks for racing or maneuvering.

The Paddle and Wildlife

As you set off on your 2.5-hour paddle, you’ll travel along a tranquil stretch of the French Broad River. The route is well-suited for a leisurely float, with opportunities to admire the scenery and keep an eye out for wildlife. Travelers have reported spotting otters, herons, turtles, beavers, and even deer and ducks along the way. One reviewer shared, “Our trip down the French Broad was so much fun! The views were magnificent. Steve was helpful and patient as this was my first time on a paddleboard.”

Scenic Highlights

While paddling, you’ll pass by Asheville’s famous Biltmore Estate, a sight that offers a stunning backdrop for your photos. It’s important to note that the estate is private property and paddling to shore isn’t allowed, but viewing from the river provides a unique perspective. The peaceful water and surrounding nature create a sense of escape from the city buzz.

Ending the Tour

After enjoying the water for about two and a half hours, you’ll return to the Asheville Outdoor Center. The location is just a short drive from West Asheville’s lively restaurants and breweries, perfect for a post-paddle meal or refreshment.

The Value Proposition

At $99 per person, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the included equipment, professional instruction, shuttle service, and the small, private group setting. For beginners, the guided instruction makes this a safe and approachable introduction to paddleboarding. The scenic route along the French Broad River, combined with wildlife sightings, adds to the experience’s authenticity.

The fact that $5 from each booking supports RiverLink’s watershed restoration efforts also appeals to eco-conscious travelers. This makes the experience not just fun and scenic but also meaningful.

What Travelers Love

Most reviews highlight the leisurely pace and beautiful setting. One reviewer described it as a “magnificent” trip with helpful guidance, emphasizing that it’s suitable for all skill levels. The presence of wildlife and the chance to learn new skills make it an engaging outing. Plus, the tour’s flexibility—offered both morning and afternoon—means you can choose what fits your schedule.

Things to Keep in Mind

While the tour is designed to be accessible, it does require a moderate level of physical fitness. Participants should bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a waterproof camera, swimwear, and a change of dry clothes for after. It’s also worth noting that no food or beverages are included, so plan to eat before or after your paddle.

For those wary of weather, the tour has a clear cancellation policy—free cancellations are possible up to 24 hours in advance. If the weather turns bad, you’ll be offered a new date or a full refund.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This paddleboard tour is ideal for nature lovers, beginner paddlers, and those seeking a unique view of Asheville’s landscapes. It’s perfect for families (ages 10 and up), couples, or solo travelers looking for a mix of outdoor exercise and wildlife encounters. While not overly strenuous, it’s best suited for those with a moderate physical fitness level. If you’re interested in a laid-back, scenic adventure that combines learning, wildlife, and beautiful scenery, you’ll likely find this tour very rewarding.

Final Thoughts

In a city famed for its mountain scenery and vibrant arts scene, this paddleboard trip offers a refreshing way to experience Asheville’s natural beauty. The combination of expert guidance, wildlife sightings, and the stunning backdrop of the Biltmore Estate makes it stand out as an authentic outdoor activity. It’s a wonderful choice whether you’re new to paddleboarding or seeking a peaceful day on the water.

While it’s a straightforward trip in terms of logistics, what makes it special is the personalized touch of the guide and the chance to connect with nature at a slow, enjoyable pace. If you’re looking for a memorable outdoor activity that pairs exercise with scenic views and wildlife, this tour deserves a spot on your Asheville itinerary.

FAQs

Is transportation provided? Yes, the tour includes a shuttle from Asheville Outdoor Center to the launch point at Bent Creek.

How long does the paddleboarding last? The paddle itself is approximately 2.5 hours, part of a 3.5-hour total tour including preparation and return.

Can I do this if I’ve never paddleboarded before? Absolutely. The guide teaches the basics, so beginners are very welcome.

What should I bring? Bring swimwear, sunscreen, sunglasses, a waterproof camera, and a dry change of clothes for after the tour.

Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, children aged 10 and older can participate when accompanied by an adult.

What is the maximum weight limit? The maximum weight allowed is 260 lbs.

Are there any hidden costs? No, all taxes, fees, and necessary equipment are included in the $99 price.

What if I cancel due to bad weather? You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, and you’ll be refunded or can reschedule.

Is food or drink provided? No, travelers should plan to eat before or after the activity as food and beverages are not included.

Can I paddle to the Biltmore Estate? No, the estate is private property and no paddling to shore is permitted.

In all, this paddleboard tour blends gentle adventure, scenic beauty, and wildlife encounters – perfect for those who want an authentic taste of Asheville’s natural charm.