French Broad River Rafting

Your journey winds through rolling hills, lush forests, and rocky outcrops, with plenty of chances to swim, play, and soak up the mountain sunshine. Along the way, you’ll stop on the riverbank for our famous Master’s Style lunch, served with a side of riverside relaxation.

This Full-day trip is the perfect way to experience whitewater rafting. With warm water, breathtaking views, and a dash of excitement in every rapid, the French Broad River delivers a refreshing and unforgettable outdoor escape.

The minimum age for the French Broad River is 9 years old. Boat size and trip size change according to current water levels. High Mountain Expeditions uses 1-person inflatable kayaks and 4+, 6+ and 8+ person rafts on the French Broad River. Mother Nature determines the raft size.

6:50 AM Check in at High Mountain Expeditions Banner Elk outpost, located at Ski Country Sports

6:55 Complete Liability and Acknowledgement of Risk Release Waiver

7:00 Load vehicles and depart for the French Broad River

7:45 Arrive at Hardee’s for breakfast, last running water restroom facility

8:00 Depart for High Mountain Expeditions French Broad River put-in location

8:15 Guests issued all the necessary whitewater gear

8:25 Final PFD check and detailed safety and river orientation speech

8:40 Launch rafts

12:00 PM Arrive at High Mountain Expeditions hidden lunch spot

12:05 Enjoy High Mountain Expeditions famous Master’s style lunch on the sandy shore of the French Broad River

12:45 Load back in the rafts, ready to enjoy the rest of your adventure

2:30 Arrive at High Mountain Expeditions French Broad River take-out location

2:35 Change clothes in High Mountain Expeditions changing rooms

2:45 Celebrate the successful completion of your adventure

2:55 Arrive at convenience store to allow guests to purchase a snack for the return home

3:10 Depart for High Mountain Expeditions Banner Elk outpost

3:55 Arrive back at High Mountain Expeditions Banner Elk outpost, Ski Country Sports

4:00 Meet and greet with your guides

*Note: This itinerary is provided as a sample. Actual times and activities are subject to change as a result of weather conditions, current water flows, and guest preferences.

• Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
• Dry Top
• Wetsuits
• Paddle
• Helmet
• Wilderness First-Aid Kit

*If you do forget something, our outpost stores carry a full selection of Water Shoes, T-Shirts,
Waterproof Cameras, Sunscreen, and more.

• Swimsuit or Quick Drying Shorts
• Water Shoes or Strap Sandals
• Waterproof Sunscreen
• Sunglasses with Strap
• Ball Cap
• A Change of Clothes
• Towel
• Plastic Bag for Wet Clothes
• Small Amount of Money for Breakfast and Refreshments at the End of Trip
• Camera – Waterproof Digital Camera
• Special Medication

• Wallets, Jewelry, and Watches – Leave all valuables at home or locked in car at outpost.
• Flip Flops
• Non-Waterproof Electronic Devices
• Pets
• Cotton Clothing Items – Cotton dries very slowly and actually draws heat away from your body
• Cigarettes – High Mountain Expeditions is a Smoke-Free Company