Water Adventures

Asheville’s waterways offer endless opportunities, from paddling the Third Oldest River to uncovering forest-fed swimming holes. Many sections of the French Broad River reopened for recreational use following Hurricane Helene repairs, and outfitters across the region have resumed operations for the season.

River Adventures

French Broad River

Location: Flows northwest through Asheville past the River Arts District toward Marshall.
Why Paddle: Renowned as one of the world’s oldest rivers, the French Broad offers serene flat-water floats, stand-up paddleboarding, tubing and guided “bellyaking.”
Getting There: Put-in at Sister Cities Park (US-23/74A near the River Arts District) or Riverside Cemetery Landing off Riverside Drive. Note: French Broad River Park remains closed for pump-station upgrades; check current access points before you go.

Green River Gorge

Location: Near Saluda, about 38 miles southeast of Asheville.
Why Float: The dam-released Lower Green offers six miles of Class II rapids ideal for tubing and gentle kayaking. Adventurous paddlers can book guided inflatable kayak trips or whitewater rafting on the Upper Green (Class II–IV) through Green River Adventures in Saluda. Wilderness Cove Tubing schedules floats Memorial Day through Labor Day to coincide with peak water releases.
Getting There: From Asheville, take I-26 East to exit 59. Turn left onto Holbert Cove Road for 0.2 miles, then left onto Green River Cove Road. Follow 3.6 miles of steep switchbacks to Wilderness Cove Tubing’s launch site.

Lakes to Explore

Lake Lure

Location: 26 miles southeast of Asheville in the Hickory Nut Gorge.
Why Visit: Famed as the filming site for Dirty Dancing, Lake Lure features a sandy beach, lakeside greenway and guided boat tours. Don’t miss walking across the Flowering Bridge or climbing Chimney Rock for sweeping views of the lake and surrounding cliffs.
Getting There: Take US-64 East from Asheville toward Hendersonville; turn right on Chimney Rock Road and follow signs into Lake Lure village.

Fontana Lake

Location: 75 miles west of Asheville within the Great Smoky Mountains.
Why Visit: The largest reservoir in the Smokies, Fontana Lake boasts 231 miles of shoreline and the tallest dam east of the Mississippi. Hike or drive across the Appalachian Trail atop Fontana Dam for unique vistas, or launch kayaks and canoes from several lakeside access points.
Getting There: Follow US-74 West from Asheville through Bryson City; turn onto Fontana Dam Road (SR 1364) to reach the visitor center and boat launches.

Lake Glenville

Location: 68 miles southwest of Asheville near Cashiers.
Why Visit: Sitting at the highest elevation of any lake east of the Mississippi, Lake Glenville offers clear water for swimming, fishing and boating. Signal Ridge Marina rents pontoons, paddleboards, tubes and wakeboards; a small public beach is available near High Falls access.
Getting There: Drive south on US-74 to Cashiers, then north on NC-107; Signal Ridge Marina is located just off the highway.

Lake James

Location: 45 miles east of Asheville, adjacent to Linville Gorge.
Why Visit: Lake James State Park features sandy beaches, hiking and mountain-bike trails, fishing and secluded coves. New boat-in campsites allow multi-day lake expeditions; canoe and kayak rentals are available at the park marina.
Getting There: Take US-70 East from Asheville to NC-126 North; follow park signage to the main entrance and marina.

Swimming Holes

Sliding Rock

Location: Pisgah National Forest, along US-276 between Brevard and Asheville.
Why Swim: This 60-foot natural water slide delivers an exhilarating ride into a plunge pool below. Lifeguards are on duty during summer weekends; a $4 per person fee supports area maintenance and safety staff.
Getting There: From Asheville, head south on US-276 for 30 miles. Turn right into the Sliding Rock parking area; follow the short paved path down to the slide.

Whaleback Swimming Hole

Location: Davidson River near Brevard, accessed via Cove Creek Group Campground.
Why Swim: Named for a smooth, whale-shaped granite outcrop beside a deep pool, this secluded spot is perfect for wading and sunbathing. Parking is limited; park at Cove Creek Campground and hike the short trail downstream to the river junction.
Getting There: Drive south from Asheville on US-19/23 to Brevard, then follow NC-280 West to Forest Road 475. Park at Cove Creek Group Campground and follow the trail to the river.

Courthouse Falls

Location: Pisgah National Forest off Forest Road 140 near the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Why Swim: A 45-foot cascade pours into a cold, clear pool framed by rock ledges—ideal for a refreshing dip after a moderate 0.3-mile hike. Vehicle clearance is recommended for the access road.
Getting There: From Asheville, take the Blue Ridge Parkway to milepost 419. Turn onto FS-140 and follow rough road 1.2 miles to the trailhead parking.

Graveyard Fields Lower Falls

Location: Blue Ridge Parkway, milepost 418.8.
Why Swim: An easy 0.2-mile walk leads to a gentle waterfall and wide, shallow pool. The site is family-friendly, though parking fills quickly—arrive early or on weekdays to secure a spot.
Getting There: Head north from Asheville on the Blue Ridge Parkway to MP 418.8; use the pull-off and follow the paved loop trail.

Silver Run Falls

Location: Nantahala National Forest, about 4 miles south of Cashiers on NC-107.
Why Swim: A short roadside stroll brings you to a 25-foot cascade and sandy plunge pool. The fall’s moderate drop and calm basin make it ideal for families and quick summer escapes.
Getting There: From Cashiers, take NC-107 South for 4 miles. Park carefully in the pull-off area and follow the level, marked trail to the falls.

Tips for Water Adventurers

• Check Current Conditions: Always verify access updates with outfitters, park bulletins or the French Broad Paddle Trail website before heading out.
• Pack Essentials: Bring water shoes, life jackets for river trips, dry bags for valuables and a basic first-aid kit.
• Respect the Environment: Observe posted rules, stay on trails and leave no trace.
• Time It Right: Early weekdays mean fewer crowds at popular sites.
• Mind the Weather: Mountain water is cold year-round; keep layers and quick-dry clothing on hand.