Float 20 miles of gentle Class I water on the Upper French Broad River
7 hrs
Shuttle, boat, life jacket
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.
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.
Product ID: KF73A6
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.
Headwaters Outfitters, 25 Parkway Road, Rosman, NC 28772
This family-owned outfitter has clearly mastered the art of making everyone feel at home on the French Broad River. The staff consistently earns praise for being friendly, professional, and genuinely passionate about what they do. Guides like Jeremy, Patrick, Gavin, Ty, and Bret get specific shoutouts for their patience and expertise, particularly with first-timers who've never touched a fly rod or sat in a kayak. Multiple reviewers mention feeling confident and comfortable even as complete beginners, which speaks volumes about the instruction quality. Beyond the guided trips, the self-guided kayak floats are a major draw. The three-hour paddle seems to be the sweet spot for a relaxed, scenic journey where you'll likely spot deer, osprey, herons, and kingfishers along the way. Equipment stays in excellent condition, and the logistics run smoothly from start to finish. The base has evolved into more than just a put-in point too, with a taproom, coffee truck, and food trucks making it easy to turn your river day into a full experience. Repeat visitors keep coming back, which tells you everything you need to know about consistency here.
This Outfitter basecamp is well stocked with fishing, kayaking, canoeing gear, drinks and snacks with a nice selection of t-shirts. Outback the taproom is a nice place to drink a cold beer and reflect on your adventures. The staff couldn’t be nicer. It’s located on the 215 ( a great motorcycle road) just off 64.
Capt Marty
August 19, 2026
This Outfitter basecamp is well stocked with fishing, kayaking, canoeing gear, drinks and snacks with a nice selection of t-shirts. Outback the taproom is a nice place to drink a cold beer and reflect on your adventures. The staff couldn’t be nicer. It’s located on the 215 ( a great motorcycle road) just off 64.
Capt Marty
August 19, 2026
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