Come summer, chances are you’ll be ready to make a splash on the winding waters in and around Asheville.
You’ll find many beautiful rivers, lakes, and waterfalls in the mountains, and we suggest doing more than looking at them. Soak up the action first-hand with a variety of options, from thrilling water adventures to leisurely boat rides, with this list of refreshing and fun ways to cool off.
Discover Sliding Rock, a Waterslide Au Naturel
Thrills and chills meet up for the perfect way to cool off on a hot day! A perennial favorite in the Asheville area is riding down the chilly waters of Sliding Rock in Pisgah National Forest. Beat the heat as you whiz down this natural waterslide complete with 55-60 degree water for a refreshing plunge. Plus, explore the many waterfalls nearby including Looking Glass Falls. See our guide to Sliding Rock natural waterslide.
Rappel Down a Waterfall
Here’s a great bucket list idea with no experience necessary! Take a canyoneering trip with Green River Adventures and rappel down Bradley Falls, deep in the Green River Gorge. After learning the basics, take a practice run on a 30-foot vertical wall before you tackle the 200-foot descent. Certified guides lead you all the way, making this a safe, fun way to impress your friends and family.
Try a Sunrise Paddle
Take in the sweet morning air as you stand-up paddleboard down the French Broad River in Asheville with Wai Mauna. With instruction from an expert guide from Maui, the birthplace of SUP, you can choose from four informative tours—including the Sunrise Dawn Patrol where you paddle through the cool morning mist as the sun peaks over the mountains.
Whitewater Wonderland
Ride the rapids on the beloved Nantahala River that has produced dozens of Olympians and hosted four world championships. The family-friendly rapids guarantee laughs and fun-fueled screams, creating lifelong memories. With Wildwater Adventure Center, take an exhilarating eight-mile ride in a raft or inflatable kayak, with or without a guide.
Easy River Kayaking
If you prefer a river sans the big rapids, raft, kayak or canoe down the French Broad River in Asheville through the woodlands of Biltmore Estate. Asheville Adventure Co offers a 3-4 hour journey with shuttle service and a variety of rentals.
Hit the Beach
Yes, a beach in the middle of the mountains! At Lake Lure, sun and play on their sandy beach with the dramatic mountain views of the Hickory Nut Gorge. Children of all ages love their lakeside water park with soaking games, slide, and water wars. Find another great beach complete with lifeguards at Lake James State Park in the shadows of Linville Gorge.
Tube Time
Float down the river with Zen Tubing, offering a choice of two trips in Asheville with the cushiest, comfiest tubes. One route floats you past plenty of islands and places to picnic and swim. The other takes you by the River Arts District. Bring a cooler full of your favorite beverages, and they’ll provide a float for them, too.
Fishing in Style
Fish in the ponds, lakes and river that George Vanderbilt and his guests explored on Biltmore Estate. Learn the essentials of casting with a guide at their Orvis Endorsed Fly-Fishing School. Then, take a half-day expedition to learn the secrets from the pros and go home an accomplished angler. For the kids, they offer a special two-hour class using conventional spinning or casting rods and tackle. All equipment is provided, so all you have to do is show up!
