The French Broad River flows through the beautiful landscapes of North Carolina and into Tennessee, with a spectacular whitewater section just north of Asheville. As a free-flowing river, the French Broad is not controlled by lakes and dams, which allows the river's flow to change naturally, offering a dynamic and ever-different rafting experience. The absence of dams means the river retains its wild character, having fluctuating water temperatures and levels based on rainfall.
A Brief History of the French Broad
The French Broad River is one of the oldest rivers in the world, estimated to be over 280 million years old. Originally called the Broad River in the early 1700s, the river became known as the French Broad in the late 1700s. Various reasons are cited for this, ranging from the need to distinguish it from another Broad River to the fact that the French occupied the area it drained into. The Cherokee people had different names for sections of the river, including Poelico and Agiqua ("broad") near the headwaters, Zillicoah near what is now Asheville (a name adopted by a local brewery on the river), and Tahkeeosteh (racing waters) from Asheville downriver where the Cherokee liked to race canoes.
The river has witnessed centuries of human activity, from Native American (Eastern Band of the Cherokee) settlements to the bustling trade routes of early American pioneers. In 1916, a 100-year flood event occurred, causing the French Broad and its tributaries to overflow and cause catastrophic damage in communities along the river, including Asheville and Marshall.
As the 20th century marched on, the river became polluted to the extent that local organizations, realizing the importance of the waterway to the region, began uniting to clean it up. Today, nonprofit organizations such as Riverlink and Mountain True work to keep the river clean and healthy for wildlife and recreation opportunities.
Hurricane Helene and the French Broad River - Sept. 2024
We have spoken and written about the 1916 flood in awe, never expecting that we would experience an even greater disaster. During Hurricane Helene, the French Broad River in Asheville crested at 24.67 feet, surpassing the previous record set during the 1916 flood. In Asheville, the river widened to 1,300 feet from its normal width of 380 feet. In Fletcher, the river crested at an astounding 30.31 feet on September 27th.
Hurricane Helene caused significant changes to parts of the French Broad River, including making it wider and deeper in some areas. The storm's intense rainfall and runoff washed away sediment and deposited debris, impacting riverbanks and infrastructure. Thankfully, water quality tests repeatedly show that the water is not contaminated. It is safe for activities like tubing, kayaking, and rafting.
The impact on areas like the River Arts District in Asheville and Downtown Marshall cannot be exaggerated. Before Helene, both areas bustled with creative energy, featuring art galleries, craft studios, breweries, eclectic shops and restaurants, music venues, and lovely outdoor spaces for people to enjoy. The storm waters wiped most of these establishments off the map, but in true WNC spirit, people are fighting to keep their businesses alive. We encourage everyone who visits this area to support these small business owners.
How will the changes to the river affect my whitewater rafting trip?
In brief, it won't. The sections of the river that we take guests on were largely unaffected. You will only notice changes if you are an experienced rafter and kayaker who has spent years on the French Broad River.
The French Broad River Sections
From the Headwaters to Section 10
The river's journey begins near Rosman, NC, in the Pisgah National Forest, where its headwaters gather from the West Fork and North Fork in Transylvania County, known as the land of waterfalls. As one of the few rivers that flows northward, the French Broad makes its way through Henderson and Buncombe counties before reaching Madison County, where it carves through valleys and gorges, offering a diverse range of experiences for rafters, kayakers, and anglers.
Section 9 (IX)
This section is THE main attraction for whitewater enthusiasts. Known for its diverse rapids and stunning scenery, Section 9 is where French Broad Adventures operates our whitewater trips. With rapids ranging from Class II to Class IV, this stretch offers a perfect blend of excitement and beauty, making it a must-visit for novice and experienced rafters and kayakers.
Section 10
Continuing downstream, Section 10 begins in the small town of Hot Springs, and provides a more relaxed float trip. This section is ideal for those looking to enjoy the river's beauty and serenity while encountering minor Class I and II rapids. Beyond Section 10, the river flows north into Tennessee, eventually flowing into the Holston, Tennessee, Ohio, and Mississippi Rivers. Our Calm Water trips are ideal for 4-year-olds and up.
Expertise at French Broad Adventures
French Broad Adventures specializes in navigating the French Broad River. With over 43 years of experience, our guides have an intimate knowledge of the river's dynamics, ensuring a safe and fun adventure for all. Our commitment to this river, and only this river, allows us to provide a level of service and expertise unmatched in the region.
We invite you to explore the French Broad River. Whether navigating the exhilarating rapids of Section 9 or enjoying the tranquil beauty of Section 10, we're here to ensure you have a grand adventure. Learn more about all of our river adventures.
