ASHEVILLE KAYAK FIELD GUIDE
Paddle Five Miles, Finish With a Cold One: An Evening on the Historic French Broad
A 2-hour, staff-supported paddle from Pisgah Forest to Oskar Blues Brewery that combines river scenery with a brewery finish—this guide explains what to expect and how to plan.
Paddle Five Miles, Finish With a Cold One: An Evening on the Historic French Broad.
On a summer evening the French Broad eases past hardwoods and river meadows as you glide downstream for roughly two hours; Headwaters Outfitters handles the shuttle, boats, life jackets and safety briefing, and the trip concludes at Oskar Blues Brewery where beer and food await.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Five miles on the Historic French Broad
Paddle approximately five scenic miles downstream, passing river wildlife and open-water views over the course of the two-hour float.
A brewery landing at Oskar Blues
The trip ends at Oskar Blues Brewery where participants can enjoy craft beer and food from the Chubwagon Food Truck in a lively setting.
Staff-equipped, gear-provided experience
Headwaters Outfitters supplies boats, life jackets, paddles, shuttle service and staff assistance, including a brief safety orientation before launch.
What the day feels like
What the afternoon feels like
After meeting at Oskar Blues Brewery you board a quick shuttle to the Pisgah Forest access, receive a short safety orientation, and then set off on a relaxed downstream paddle that takes about two hours before finishing at the Penrose Access and returning by shuttle to the brewery.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who gets the most from this outing—and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Plan for a roughly two-hour on-water experience; the itinerary includes shuttle time to and from the river in addition to the paddle.
Light, quick-dry clothing and footwear that can get wet; personal items like sunscreen and a small water bottle—boats, life jackets and paddles are provided by the operator.
Meet at Oskar Blues Brewery, NC where Headwaters Outfitters stages gear and shuttles participants to the Pisgah Forest access.
Reservations are required for this experience; contact the operator in advance to confirm availability.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the paddle?
The on-water portion runs about two hours as you cover roughly five miles downstream.
Where do I meet for the trip?
You meet at Oskar Blues Brewery, NC where Headwaters Outfitters provides boats and gear and runs the shuttle to the put-in.
Is gear provided or do I need to bring my own kayak and life jacket?
Headwaters Outfitters supplies boats, life jackets and paddles and provides staff assistance with gear.
Will there be a safety briefing?
Yes; staff deliver a brief safety orientation and assist with gear before launch.
Can I expect food and beer at the end of the paddle?
The trip finishes at Oskar Blues Brewery where participants can enjoy craft beer and food from the Chubwagon Food Truck.
Are reservations required?
Yes—reservations are required for this outdoor experience.