7-Hour French Broad River Self-Guided Paddle
Float 20 miles of gentle Class I water on the Upper French Broad River
Duration
7 hrs
Includes
Shuttle, boat, life jacket
Highlights
Explore a 20-mile self-guided route on the Upper French Broad River, with a lively but gentle current, shoals, and sharp bends. This Class I paddle is suited to first-time and seasoned paddlers alike.
- Navigate gentle Class I water at your own pace
- Discover fast-moving shoals and natural river bends
- Take in scenic views along the Upper French Broad River
- Enjoy a full-day paddle by canoe, single kayak, or tandem kayak
Itinerary
- Arrive & Check In
- Shuttle to the River
- River Orientation & Safety Talk
- Enjoy Your Float
- Easy Take-Out at Hannah Ford
- Shuttle Back to the Shop
What's Included
- Shuttle to the private launch site
- Type III life jacket
- Paddle
- Safety orientation
- Return shuttle from the takeout
Important details
- Available Tuesdays from April through October, departing at 10am
- Arrive 20–30 minutes before departure; the shuttle leaves about 10 minutes before the trip time
- Complete the electronic waiver before arrival; a guardian must complete it for minors
- Swimming ability is required
- Wear river shoes with straps or water shoes; flip-flops are not allowed
- Wear the provided Type III life jacket at all times on the water
- Canoes and tandem kayaks require two paddlers; canoes hold up to 2 adults and 2 small children
- Leave alcohol off the river; small coolers are allowed
- Pack out all trash
- Expect possible delays or cancellations for thunder, lightning, or high water
Cancellation Policy
Cancel 7 or more days before your trip for a full refund. Cancel 1–6 days before for a 50% refund. No refund on the day of your trip or for no-shows. Full refund if the operator cancels due to thunder, lightning, unsafe air or water temperatures, high winds, or high water levels.
FAQs
Wear river shoes with straps or water shoes; flip-flops are not allowed. Wear a swimsuit or quick-dry clothing, and bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, water, and snacks. A dry bag for valuables is optional.
Complete the electronic waiver and watch the paddling safety video before your trip. A guardian must complete the waiver for minors.
Bring water and snacks for your French Broad River paddle. Small coolers are allowed, but alcohol is not allowed on river trips.
Meeting details
Headwaters Outfitters, 25 Parkway Road, Rosman, NC 28772
