My wife and I did the canyoneering activity. We met the guides in Asheville's River Arts District along with two other participants. We then drove drove separately an hour south to Brevard. After hiking in one mile to the falls we did ground school, which was basically 10 minutes of training. Each guest rappelled down the waterfall. My wife and I went a second time too. At this point we were satisfied with this waterfall and expected to go find another waterfall to rappel down. Except that was it. Only one waterfall to rappel down, except we didn't know it at the time. We went to a natural rock water slide and did that a couple times. The other couple had pre existing injuries and chose not to partake. After that it was a 1/2 mile hike out and the trip was over. Overall I'd say the guides were nice. But the experience left me wanting. I can't imagine how frustrated I'd be if I was the other couple who paid $125/person to rappel once. I was very disappointed to rappel twice down the same waterfall and do the rock water slide twice. Just very overpriced for what you get. read more

We had the BEST time whitewater rafting! Ellie was a wonderful guide on the river, and the whole staff made it a fun and exciting experience. We did the half day trip and wished we had booked a whole day! read more

We had a great time with Eric as our tour guide! my kids asked to go back the next say!

We did the 5 mile guided rafting trip. Everything ran smoothly and on time. The guides were clearly very experienced and passionate about their jobs...not only that, they were hilarious and friendly, and quick to offer assistance to those who needed it while letting more experienced rafters do their thing. A quick 30 minute drive from downtown Asheville....I see no need to drive further to go rafting! read more

Amazing paddle on the French Briad river. Sean was amazing and so qualified. it was worth the hour and forty five minutes!

We had a BLAST with our guide AJ on the French Broad for our half day with lunch whitewater rafting trip. French Broad Adventures was a great company. Very easy to check in and fill out waivers before arriving. The trip leader was really funny, cracking jokes the whole way there and back on the bus - it kept everyone laughing. AJ was an amazing guide. He was knowledgeable and we felt like we were in good hands with our 3 kids. Definitely enough whitewater to feel adventurous but also enough floating down the river to enjoy the beautiful day and scenery. read more

First time for our family trying out river rafting so I was a little nervous. We did the 5 mile one and it was amazing. Just enough excitement but nothing scary. Our guide Sam was outstanding. He made it so much fun and was so patient with the girls. It was well worth the money. Highly recommend it. read more

For me, this was the highlight of our family vacation. Our guide, Jim, was very experienced and made the trip very enjoyable. He is quite the story teller. The rafting was a blast! I can't wait to go again. read more

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We loved our experience Rafting with Calvin as our guide! We signed up for the shorter trip and our group spanned the age spectrum from elementary, middle school, high school, parents and grandparents and it was great fun for us all. This was our first experience rafting and we will definitely do it again and sign up for the whole day excursion. The staff was friendly and knowledgable and we felt informed and prepared to enjoy the river. The facilities were nice with a huge selection of Tees to remember your adventure! read more

Went here for an adventure for our honeymoon! We loved our guides Matt and Eli! They made us feel safe and confident the entirety of the zip lining tour and were very knowledgeable and SO much fun. Each staff we interacted with were so kind and friendly to us. We will be back next time we make our way to Asheville! read more

My family did both rafting and ziplining with French Broad, and had a great time! Everyone at French Broad was friendly, funny, and informative. This was everyone's first rafting trip and some were a bit nervous, but they do a great job at explaining things. Once we were on the water, all of our fears were put to rest. The tide was little low that day and it's too bad because I think we all were up for a challenging ride. It was still fun though. After rafting, we went ziplining. I'd been before but never like this. There were a bunch of lines that ranged from very basic to longer/higher. We all had a blast. My niece, who's 9, freaking loved it and mastered using the gloves almostly instantly. So anyone can do this! It's a bit pricey, especially when you factor in the cost of the photos they entice you into buying afterwards. But it's worth it. The photos were a great souvenir of a wonderful experience. Tip: To save a little, we didn't do the the trip that included lunch and I think we choose wisely. We brought sandwiches and snacks, which we ate right after the trip. And there's a break during the rafting trip where they provide you drinks and a snackbar. I honestly don't think I would've liked to have a hamburger or hotdog and then jump back on the water. read more

Wonderful outfit of professional, hilarious rafting guides- superb experience. Huge shout out to our guide Timmy and the expertise he offered (as well as great stories and wonderful rafting recs)! Would highly recommend this group for your rafting vacations! read more

very fun, really good experience our guide christian was very fun, good energy from all guides everyone's nice and funny friendly. really something should do and check out read more

Surveying the rafting companies on the French Broad, we were attracted by FBRZ's web site. We *completely* lucked up with our assigned guide when the family of 4 gals and I got into the boat. Jim H. was clearly an expert with the paddle and the craft. He was also very personable, entertaining, and knowledgeable about the river, history, and stories of the area. As for the River, in July it's downright warm, there is a jump rock, and a couple/few Class III rapids. We did the "snack" trip (but wished we did the lunch trip) but it was all good after a big breakfast. I recommend you figure out a way to bring your own water (with a carbiner) to lash to the boat. Lastly, I received some good information from Jim about my next trip where we'll visit yet another jewel of the Smokies. read more

Great excursion! Our group of 4 (ages 50's and ages 20's) had a great time together. Marti was a fun guide, as were all of the staff. We opted for the trip that included lunch and it was perfect - easy excursion without alot of extra need for packing, etc. Everyone was very friendly and professional- we would definitely recommend and would go back again. Nice family owned business. read more

Richard was an excellent river guide. While the water was low, making the rapids quite calm, we enjoyed our rafting very much. We felt safe at all times while still having fun. I highly recommend Richard as a raft guide; he clearly knows what he is doing. I could have done without other rafters splashing us in the face with water from their paddles. Ziplining wasn't quite as spectacular of an experience. They do have 10 ziplines in a variety of lengths. The equipment used was quality, but we could have used a little more instruction (especially in regards to hand breaking) before going on the long zips. On one of the longest lines, my hand slipped off the line while breaking, causing me to spin wildly on the line, hit the padded tree back-first, and ricocheting into the ends of the cable at significant speed and. Of course, this isn't their fault, but I would have appreciated a little more instruction of what to do in this type of situation in advance. I continued to finish the ziplines after getting a bit more instruction on controlling my speed throughout the lines and how to maintain a front-facing position without losing grip of the line. I came home very bruised and sore from the ziplining, but it was still a good time. Make sure you are completely confident and in control of your speed, steering/directionality, and breaking before starting a long zip. The rafting was the highlight of the experience. read more

We took a group of 48 between ages of 11 and over 50 years old. The guides were all excellent, skilled and professional. We had an excellent time and have already booked our next adventure. Highly recommend. My boat was guided by Christian. She was fun, safe and informative while leading us on a great adventure. read more

We went on a rafting trip down the French Broad River with TJ as our guide. We had an amazing time. He was very informative and easy to talk to. He shared lots of personal stories and you could see that he loves what he does. The lunch we were served was very good as well. We had a choice of burgers or hotdogs, chips and local homemade humus, cookies, and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. read more

We booked a Full Day rafting trip and it was absolutely amazing! Our raft guide Robert told us it has been a couple of weeks they hadn't run the 9 mile trip (full day) due to low water levels, so we knew he was probably just as stoked as we were to do the 9 miles. The morning was a bit gloomy and cold as thunderstorms were forecasted for the day but it turned out to be sunny and beautiful! We lost Robert on our first Class IV ledge but we got him back on the raft in a jiffy! LOL. As for lunch, French Broad actually GRILLS hotdogs and burgers, no pre-made sandwiches like other rafting companies. Overall, friendly staff! Richard is the new up and coming North Carolina comedian and Amy is a future NASCAR bus driver. HIGHLY recommend them!!! read more

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Great time on the unguided calm trip! Our kids (6 and 7) loved the little rapids we went through. It was a 1.5 hour trip in total.

Great experience overall. Our rafting guide Richard was Top Notch. We learned a lot of history and details about the area and the river. Things we would have never known otherwise. The changing facilities inside the building Etc were clean comfortable with plenty of room. We have been to other rafting companies and there is no comparison! We will be back again and recommend it to anyone visiting this area. read more

Our guide Jonah was great. Very laid back and made our trip just right for our family. It was our family of 5 in one raft. Girls were 17 and 14 and son was 10. Everyone had so much fun. Water was way down but had enough adventure for us. We went on Fall break. Interesting enough the water stays pretty warm during this time. They had plenty of gear to wear to keep from freezing if it was colder but we did wear our cold gear stuff anyway. It worked out fine. Wife was always a little concerned that something might happen, I was very comfortable about the safety this outfit takes. No worries, just fun. It was beautiful scenery. We got to try some cool stuff in the raft. Guide took our picture. We would try the longer harder trip next time. Please go if you are thinking about it. read more

We did the 5 mile trip with lunch the website says it's about 5 hours it's only took 3 hours. We did have a lot of fun the only think that sucked was the pictures there was only one spot they took pictures of us coming down the river. About 10 pictures which they charge $42 dollars and tax for them on a flash drive. Very disappointed there were more then one Rapid on the river they could have took pictures in more spots on the river. Also some of the photos on the flash drive were duplicates so definitely not worth the $42 dollars pulse tax for the flash drive with the photos. Also one of the photos were of a bird not of us rafting. Next year when we come we will definitely try another company. But we must say thank you to TJ are rafting guide he was great very personal and full of information of the area and the surroundings the river. read more

This was my 4th time white water rafting and my 2nd time with this company. It was the first time for the rest of my family. This is a great 1st timer's trip. The river is easy going. The rapids were class 1, 2, and 3. We did the 5-miler. I understand there's a class 4 rapid on the 9-miler. All the staff are friendly. The guides are safety conscious and very funny. Tom was our guide. He was great and the leader of our group. We had 2 teens with us and they had a blast. There were a lot of younger kids on our trip so it's great for them too. The following day we came back to zip line. Josh "Juice" and Joe were our guides. They were great. Why? They are patient, explain things (repeatedly, if needed), funny, easy to talk to, and safety conscious. The zip lining was incredible. We've all been before on a one and done course. There were 10 lines on this course. The views are amazing. Speeding through the air was exhilarating. You mostly zip from one platform yo the next. There are a couple of times you have to walk a short distance on easy terrain. We all had a blast. read more

We had a party of 12 and called ahead to reserve. The reservation process was straightforward and quick, and the girl on the phone was very helpful when I had to modify our reservation. Arriving at French Broad Rafting, we were informed on safety procedures before embarking on our 5-mile rafting adventure. Six passengers ride to a boat, and my boat guide was Chance. He was very knowledgeable of the river and area, very clear in terms of verbal commands and directions, and he joked around and had a lot of fun with us. The 5-mile rafting trip is EASY. You will get wet, and you will physically exert yourself, but you will not get hurt, nor will you submerge yourself under or tip the raft as long as you follow your guide's instructions. I can not recommend enough! read more

Amazing experience!! Our group of 13 made a reservation for the 5 mile morning trip (included lunch) via their website. Booking was simple and easy--and they answered all of my questions regarding concerns with my 70 year old in-laws coming with us in the trip. The guides did a fantastic job reviewing the rules and safety guidelines, and the process of equipping everyone with vests, helmets and oars was seamless. Speaking of guides, our guide Will was beyond expectations. He made our trip down the river such a wonderful experience! He had our raft rowing like professionals and his trip included the history and fun tidbits of information about the area. Highly recommend this company and Will as your guide. read more

We had a fantastic time on our white water rafting trip. Very well organized, knowlegeable staff, safe and professional. I highly recommend.

These guys are a real fun time. Evan and Jim were very knowledgeable (and jokesters) about the river's history in and around Madison County. Evan was a great river guide. Groups were small and Intimate, met some good people. Next time me and my girlfriend are doing the zipline tour! read more

Andy was an awesome river guide. Very personable and entertaining. My mother and I were on our virgin white water rafting trip and we felt well guided & instructed. Lunch was included- burgers & dogs (w/ vegetarian options if requested in advance). I can't wait to go again!! read more

French Broad Adventures - Photo taken on trip down river. - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Marshall, North Carolina

Wish I could give them TEN stars! We researched every possible option within a 15 mile radius of Hot Springs, and there was French Broad, set right out on Main Street, welcoming us with open arms. Their guides were smart, funny, hardworking and SO FUN! Can't wait to return year after year - such an outstanding company that gave us the memories of a lifetime. read more

We rafted here twice and both times had great experiences. The river itself is scenic, beautiful, and lives up to its reputation as a class 2 - class 3 adventure. The equipment is well-maintained and the facilities are clean. The guides did a great job of being helpful and organized, without over managing the trip. They were characters, with plenty of Carolina humor, plenty of lame jokes, and interesting tidbits of history along the way. My only minor complaints are that the mid-journey snack consisted of a single granola bar per person and that they charged $20 for a 5 x 7 photo, which seems to be typical with any rafting outfit. But overall, it was a great trip for beginner to intermediate rafters who want to catch a glimpse of the beautiful North Carolina outdoors. read more

Such a great time! From the check in point, to the check out point, everything was well organized. Our rafting guide Katie was great, she was excellent at giving commands to assure an exciting, safe trip down river. The whole crew were very professional, and knowledeable. Another cool thing was that we found out that our guide Katie had Massachusetts connections, where my wife and I are from originally! Small world. A must try adventure! read more

French Broad Adventures - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Marshall, North Carolina

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The absolute BEST rafting trip down the French broad River!!! The crew here is just top notch ! They are friendly, funny , experienced and just do it right!! From the moment you arrive things are organized and you just enjoy the fun. Even the bus ride down to the river was fun w I think his name was Craig "historical tour". Our guides name was Mikey and he was excellent!! Super friendly and extremely knowledgeable of the river. We too the 5 mile tour w lunch. We loved it. I'm 46 and was comfortable on the trip- the 9 mile w more Rapids would have been too much for me. My kids 18 and 21 want to go again and take the 9 mile trip. Overall excellent excellent day and cannot say enough great things about every single person who helped make our day great!!! read more

French Broad Adventures - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Marshall, North Carolina

*** Rafting full 9mile*** (non-swimmer and first time rafters) The staff are extremely friendly, knowledgeable and hilarious. You can tell their staff really enjoy being around each other and give off such a positive and welcoming vibe. They are thorough with explanation of how to sit on board and safety instructions. We opted for wet suits underneath our rain gear (they provided due to it being a bit cold and rainy)My teenage daughter who can't swim was at first a bit scared of goin but once she sat in the raft and saw how well anchored in you are when you place your foot holds properly, she seemed more relaxed. As we got passed our first rapid she was definitely having fun and seemed at ease. It had been raining for several days (including the day we went off and on ) so the river was high and moving at a good pace. We happened to go when they had a school group booked. They scheduled my family of 3 with another family of 3 in the same raft. I was impressed with how efficiently they were able to get all the group's moving, even with our lunch stop (which they grill hotdogs and hamburgers- if you need veggie burgers you can book that option ahead, with drink coolers of water and lemonade available) it all seemed to move at a decent pace. Our guide Marti was awesome and the pictures they took were great. Easy system of finding your groups photos by looking for your guides name, the date/time of reservation. ***Just remember to bring cash for a tip, we regrettably did not *** On our last rapid, our raft mate wound up flailing backwards and hit my daughter in the face with his helmet pretty hard causing her to have a small cut above her eyebrow and a little swelling. I could tell at this point her excitement for rafting diminished, which is unfortunate since she was having a blast. So FYI to maybe also pay attention to the person in front of you and how they are positioned, as she did say she was only paying attention to his paddle and trying to keep in time with it and not his head/body placement. read more

A few of us were nervous at first but we were pretty confident in our guide Jim. He was extremely knowledgable and personable. The whole experience was extremely fun and definitely worth it. We bought our tickets with lunch along the French Broad and it was better than we anticipated. They grilled burgers and hot dogs for lunch along with plenty of condiments and additional snacks. We will be returning! read more

French Broad Adventures - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Marshall, North Carolina

We had enjoyed our canyoneering experience with our guides , but the covid-19 precautions were not even considered . Actually the other family that we were paired with had driven up from Miami, A MAJOR covid-19 hotspot and no precautions were taken. We cancelled our upcoming whitewater rafting trip on Saturday because everyone was put into a VERY crowded van to get to the destination. This does not follow covid-19 cdc guidelines. read more

Super fun trip. We rafted one day and zip lined the next. Mikey our rafting guide was awesome. Brian and Cam our zip line guide made us feel totally safe and we had a blast. Highly recommend this on your trip and request these guides. read more

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We had a group of seven and Shawn (Shaun?) for our guide! He was amazing! He knew so much about the river and the animals! He's great with adults and kids and so experienced! He makes jokes and makes you feel right at home! Will definitely go back and ask for him! read more

French Broad Adventures - Shawn is by far one of the best guides we've had here! We had an amazing time! - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Marshall, North Carolina

The river is flood level, we were a little apprehensive. Our guide Calvin navigated it without a hitch. I felt so confident in his knowledge of the the river, he knew every line and how to get us there, I'm biased, but please request Calvin, he knows the river. read more

We had a great experience rafting on the French Broad River, thanks to the crew at French Broad Adventures! Despite being a group of 2, we were able to tag along to another trip and make a reservation. We did the 5-mile trip with lunch, and had a wonderful time. Our raft guide, Auggie, was fun, friendly, and easy-going, and was very knowledgeable about the river and surrounding areas. The lunch was great--grilled hamburgers and hot dogs--and for an extra $8 was definitely worth it. As a larger person, I was worried about their life-vests fitting me and about being in the raft, but the guides were very accommodating and never made me feel like my size was an inconvenience. This was my first rafting trip, but it definitely won't be my last! read more