1. How often do trips leave?
Our River Adventures are scheduled to depart on the hour
from 9 am until 1 pm during the months of April, May, September
and October. During the months of June, July & August,
river trips depart on the hour from 9 am until 2 pm. You
will need to arrive no later than 30 minutes prior to your
trip departure time to complete check-in.
2.
Do I need to make reservations?
Yes, we highly suggest reservations even at the last minute.
Our river trips are often full on weekends and holidays
Memorial Day – Labor Day. We are happy to accommodate
walk-ins when space is available.
2a.
What is Check-in?
When
checking in before your river trip you will need to have
30 minuets to read and complete release forms, pay for your
river trip, purchase supplies, review river map, watch a
seven minute safety video, and receive river gear. This
does not give you time to change clothes, make sandwiches,
or pack your personal supplies. Arrive ready to get on the
river or give yourself extra time.
3. Do we go by ourselves or do we go with
other people?
We transport all river guests in the same vehicle to and
from the river. It is less than a 1 mile drive to the put-in.
It is likely that other guests will be traveling with you
to and from the river as well as listening to our river
orientation. Once you are on the river you do not have to
stay with your put-on group. The river twists and turns,
you are not likely to see other paddlers while on the river.
4.
Do I have to wear a life jacket?
ABSOLUTELY More than 90% of deaths in boating are from drowning. And
80% of those drowning victims were not wearing a personal
floatation device. It's important to wear a PFD! They protect
against drowning and can help protect against hypothermia.
Exposure to cold water is another major killer in boating
accidents. We don't take chances.
All participants are required to wear
LIFE JACKETS at all times while on the river!
5. Do I have to paddle?
Yes, you do have to paddle. The average current in our section
of the French Broad River flows about two to three miles
to an hour. The river twists and turns through a rural mountain
valley and you do have to steer your canoe or kayak to avoid
river obstacles.
6. What is the age limit?
We do not have an age limit but do require that all participants be able to swim. This is determined at the discretion
of parents and Headwaters Outfitters-subject to weather,
river conditions and experience. Ask us ahead of time if
there is a question.
7. What are physical limitations?
Pregnant women, people with injuries/recent surgeries or
other medical situations should consult with your physician
before attempting any river activities. All participants
must be able to swim. Our canoes and kayaks have weight
capacities, we cannot exceed those limits. Please call for
individual concerns.
8. How do I get back to my car from my
river trip?
Our river trip fees include all transportation. We transport
you to and from the river. You will be paddling downstream
away from our river shop. We will meet you at the take-out
at a predetermined time and shuttle you and your equipment
back to the river shop.
9. How many people can ride in a canoe?
Prices are based on two people per canoe which is ideal.
A third person riding in the center of the canoe rides at
a reduced rate. Guests 11 years and above pay $20.00. Kids
10 years of age and under may ride in the center of the
canoe at $15.00 each. No more than 3 adults or two adults
and two small children may ride in the canoe. The combined
weight of the kids or the 3rd adult cannot be more than
150#. We use Old Town Discovery 158’s & 169’s
in our rental fleet. These canoes, made by oldest canoe
manufacturing company in the world are very durable and
forgiving. Each canoe has 2 contoured molded seats, no need
for cushions. We have drop-in seats available for rent at
$2.00 per seat. You can add one drop-in seat per canoe creating
a third seat. For those not wanting to rent a drop-in seat,
we are happy to provide a cushion for the person riding
in the middle at no extra charge.
10.
What if it rains? Weather:
We are in the mountains and the weather can change quickly.
There are several different Web links for the mountains
of North Carolina. We are between them! Asheville is to
our northeast and Greenville is to our south. Here are two
web links to check: Our
Local Weather & Satellite
Weather We operate trips in rain but do not operate when
the river is high (above 3' on the Rosman River Gauge),
when it is lightening, or when the sum of air and water
temperature does not equal 100 degrees.
11.What
do I do if it starts to lightning while I am on the river?
We
do not operate river trips during lightening storms, however
weather in the mountains can change drastically and suddenly
you can find yourself in the middle of a thunder storm.
The river is sunken, with high river banks, serving much
like a drainage ditch. You are better off to stay in your
watercraft in the river, the lowest area around, instead
of climbing a river bank getting under tall trees, or running
across a wide open field. Continue paddling until you reach
the next bridge, pull your watercraft up, get under the
bridge and sit on your life jacket. We will conduct bridge
searches in the event of a thunder storm.
12.
How cold is the water, how deep?
The
French Broad is born at our river shop with the joining
of its West and North Forks. As you paddle downstream you
will pass the entrance of the Middle and East Forks. All
forks originate from springs coming out from under the Blue
Ridge Mountains . The mountain water is cold but ever so
refreshing on a hot summer's day. The average summer temperature
of the river is 70 degrees. Spring and fall the river temperature
can be anywhere from 50 – 60 degrees. This all depends on
air temperatures and rain fall.
This
section of the French Broad River averages 2 – 4 feet deep.
You will paddle across some shallow shoals where you will
need to read the river and find the deeper channel. You
will also find areas 10/12 feet deep, great fishing or swimming
holes. The river on average is 30-40 feet wide.
13. Are there any
snakes? Spiders?
Yes and all snakes can swim. Avoiding snakes while canoeing,
fishing, tubing, boating is similar to avoiding snakes on
land in that you want to stay away from areas that the snakes
use for sunning. This means avoid drifting underneath overhanging
tree branches. Many of the water snakes like to sun on tree
branches then drop into the water when they detect movement.
Of the 37 species of snakes throughout North Carolina, only
six are venomous: We are in the western part of the state.
The Brown water snake is most commonly seen along the French
Broad River and it is not poisonous.
1. Copperhead (found throughout NC)
2. Canebrake Rattlesnake (found throughout NC)
3. Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake (found in southeastern
NC)
4. Pigmy Rattlesnake (found in southeastern NC)
5. Cottonmouth or Water Moccasin (found in wetland areas
in the eastern half of NC)
6. Coral Snake (the rarest, found in the south and southeastern
areas of NC)
They use the water's surface tension to glide and can lift
1/4 to 1/3 of their body length off of the water surface.
Some snakes, such as Northern water snakes, red belly water
snakes, brown water snakes, banded water snakes, are more
likely to be encountered on or near the water. A snake on
land can only lunge forward (strike) a distance of half
of its body length. A snake on water does not have a solid
surface to thrust against, so its strike range while swimming
is extremely limited. Snakes prefer to flee rather than
fight. But if they feel cornered or threatened, or if they
are accidentally stepped on or provoked, a water snake (venomous
or non-venomous) seldom backs down.
Spiders,
especially “Water Spiders” are in abundance on the river.
These spiders will drop into your boat if you get up under
tree branches or into the bushes. To avoid spiders keep
out of the bushes an out from under tree branches.
14. What is the river like? Are there
any rapids?
A large portion of our customers are return guests. They
experienced their very first paddling trip with us and loved
it so much that they return again and again! The French
Broad River is formed at our River Shop at the “Forks
of the River” The upper reaches of the river are primarily
flat, flowing over shallow shoals alternating between farm
lands and wooded areas. “It is ideal for quiet float
trips” according to Bob & David Benner in A canoeing
Guide to the Carolinas. This section of the river is rated
on the international level of difficulty to paddle as class
1 & 2
International Scale of River Difficulty
From the Safety
Code of the American Whitewater Affiliation
INTERNATIONAL
SCALE OF RIVER DIFFICULTY
• Class I: Easy, fast moving water
with riffles and small waves, few obstructions, all obvious
and easily missed with little training. Risk to swimmers
is slight; self-rescue is easy.
• Class II: Novice, straightforward
rapids with wide, clear channels which are evident without
scouting. Occasional maneuvering may be required, but
rocks and medium sized waves are easily missed by trained
paddlers. Swimmers are seldom injured and group assistance,
while helpful is seldom needed.
• Class III: Intermediate, rapids
with moderate, irregular waves which may be difficult
to avoid and which can swamp an open canoe. Complex maneuvers
in fast current and good boat control in tight passages
or around ledges are often required; large waves or strainers
may be present but are easily avoided. Strong eddies and
powerful current effects can be found, particularly on
large-volume Rivers. Scouting is advisable for inexperienced
parties. Injuries while swimming are rare; self-rescue
is usually easy but group assistance may be required to
avoid long swims.
• Class IV: Advanced, intense,
powerful but predictable rapids requiring precise boat
handling in turbulent water. Depending on the character
of the river, it may feature large, unavoidable wave and
holes or constricted passages demanding fast maneuvers
under pressure. A fast, reliable eddy turn may be needed
to initiate maneuvers, scout rapids, or rest. Rapids may
require "must" moves above dangerous hazards.
Scouting is necessary the first time down. Risk of injury
to swimmers is moderate to high, and water conditions
may make self-rescue difficult. Group assistance for rescue
is often essential but requires practiced skills. A strong
Eskimo roll is highly recommended.
• Class V: Expert. Extremely long,
obstructed, or very violent rapids which expose a paddler
to above average endangerment. Drops may contain large,
unavoidable waves and holes, or steep congested chutes
with complex, demanding routes. Rapids may continue for
long distances between pools, demanding a high level of
fitness. What eddies may exist may be small, turbulent,
or difficult to reach. At the high end of the scale, several
of these factors may be combined. Scouting is mandatory
but often difficult. Swims are dangerous, and rescue is
difficult even for experts. A very reliable Eskimo roll,
proper equipment, extensive experience, and practiced
rescue skills are essential for survival.
• Class VI: Extreme, one grade
more difficult than Class V. These runs often exemplify
the extremes of difficulty, unpredictability and danger.
The consequences of errors are very severe and rescue
may be impossible. For teams of experts only, at favorable
water levels, after close personal inspection and taking
all precautions. This class does not represent drops thought
to be un-run-able, but may include rapids which are only
occasionally run.
15. Do I have to sign a release form?
Why?
Headwaters Outfitters has done everything possible to assure
our guests a rewarding experience. We have been professional
river outfitters for over thirteen years. However, we wish
to inform our guests that river running is not entirely
risk free. Unlike a theme park setting, your adventure will
take place in a natural environment over which Headwaters
Outfitters has no control. Therefore, in order to participate
in any river activities offered at Headwaters Outfitters,
participants must read, complete and sign our “Acknowledgment
of Risk and Release of Liability Form” All participants
under the age of 18 must have the form completed and signed
by their legal guardians. Headwaters Outfitters makes every
effort to provide you a wonderful day on the river however,
ALL RIVER ACTIVITIES ARE RISK SPORTS. BOTH KNOWN AND UNKNOWN
DANGERS EXIST. THERE ARE NO LIFEGUARDS OR SAFETY PERSONNEL
ON THE RIVER. You must assume responsibility for your safety
and that of our children. Headwaters Outfitters does not
assume liability to personal injury, loss or damage to personal
property. Our release form is a legal document , read it
carefully.
16. Can I bring my Child's best friend?
Yes, so long as you have obtained permission from their
parents/legal guardian by having them read, fill out, and
sign our “Acknowledgement of risk and release of liability
form” This form is available to print from our web
site. Don’t forget to bring the form with you! You
cannot sign for minor unless it is your own child whom you
have legal custody of.
17. Can I bring my dog?
No & yes. We transport all guests to and from the river
in 15 passenger vans. We have experienced numerous problems
transporting pets and have gone to a no pet policy. We have
had customers being bitten, having allergic reactions, toenail
holes punched in our seats, and even accidents. HOWEVER,
if you would like to transport your pet to and from the
river in your vehicle we can make special arrangements for
you. You will have to drive your car 1 mile to the put-in,
leave your car, then at the end of the trip leave your pet
at the take-out (with a member of your party). We will take
you back to your car and then you can go back and get your
pet. This seems to work for those who insist on bringing
pets. Please note pets seem to move around in the canoe
which works for capsizing small boats. Make sure pets do
not harass any wildlife or farm animals along the way.
18. What about food? Is there a place
to picnic?
In our river shop we sell a variety of drinks and snacks.
There are no Mickey D’s along the way. You are welcome
to bring along a picnic with you. Remember that all gear
is subject to getting wet, pack accordingly. No Styrofoam
or glass containers are permitted on the river. Some of
our favorite river food includes apples, bananas, trail
mix, cheese and crackers. Plenty of drinking water or drinks
(No Glass Containers, Please)
19. How much is my deposit?
In order to keep our overhead costs down we do not take
deposits except for large group trips, but we do ask that
if for any reason you need to cancel your reservation to
please let us know ASAP. We appreciate this in advance.
20. Can I bring my own boat or gear?
• Canoes & Kayaks - Headwaters Outfitters does
provide shuttle
service for guests who have their own canoes. If you
are part of a group who is participating in one of our river
trips and want to use your own canoe or kayak, we will shuttle
you and your boat for $15.00 (per boat fee). NOTE: This
is only available if we have seats available in the van.
If we have to take an additional van for your transportation
we will charge you full shuttle rates.
• Life jackets– Everyone while of the river must
wear a life jacket. We are happy to let you wear your personal
life jacket as long as it is US Coast Guard approved rated
Type 1, 2 or 3.
21. What is your alcohol policy?
Alcohol or the use of illegal drugs is not permitted by
the Headwaters Outfitters. North Carolina has alcohol content
laws for driving and boating, as well as no open containers
in vehicles. Alcohol and river activities...canoeing, kayaking,
tubing and swimming... do NOT mix.
22. Can I fish?
Bring your fishing pole and North Carolina Fishing license
or you can purchase license at our River shop. We also sell
live bait and other fishing supplies.
• NC Residents-year -$15.00, 1-day $5.00.
• Out-of-state-year $30.00, 1-day $10.00, 3 day $15.00.
• If you plan to fish for trout, you will need a trout
stamp $10.00 (resident or non-resident).
23. What to Bring:
A great attitude, be ready for fun in the outdoors. Tennis
shoes or river shoes for river-NO BARE FEET-a dry pair of
shoes for ride home is nice. Dress in layers for warmth;
swim suit, light jacket, sun glasses, hat, suntan lotion,
bug spray, cooler, drinks and snacks, a towel. A dry pair
of shoes and change of clothes is nice to be left in the
car for the ride home.
24. What not to bring.
Do not bring valuables on trip (jewelry, rings, money, etc.)
Lock in car or better yet, leave at home. Do not take anything
on the river that you would hate to lose.
25. Can we stop along the way?
Yes, along the way you will find rocky beaches where you
can stop and picnic. All the property along both side of
the river is privately owned. You must respect private property.
Bring –out all trash that you take with you. Leave
all wildlife and farm animals alone.
26.
What if I miss my take-out/time or loose equipment?
In
the last 13 years we have found that it is rare for guests
to pass their take-out or to be late for their scheduled
pick-up. Usually they do not understand the importance of
pick-up timing. For your safety, we begin rescue procedures
when guests are 30 minutes late. We do everything possible
to keep our fees low. If we have to run extra shuttles or
come looking for paddlers past the take-out, we must pass
on this added expense to the customer. Please note we are more than happy to allow you more time on the
river for fishing, etc. but once we agree on a pick-up time
it is your responsibility to arrive on time.
• PASS your TAKE-OUT = $35 per
canoe/kayak
• MISS your Scheduled pick-up =
$20 per canoe/kayak
• LOSE equipment = $40 per lost
life jacket, $20 per
canoe paddle, $40 per
lost kayak paddle
• BOAT RECOVERY $40 = Minimum
$25/per hr
• IF stolen, damaged or unrecoverable
canoe fee $575
27. Do you have group discounts?
Yes we offer group rates of $20. per person for our Hannah
Ford River Adventure and $24. per person rate for our Island
Ford River Adventure providing the following guidelines
are met.
Group Consists of ten or more paddlers, 5 canoes. If group
numbers drop below the minimum number of 10 persons, you
pay regular full trip rates. After meeting the 10 person
requirement the 3rd person riding in the middle of the canoe
regardless of age may ride at a discount rate of $15. There
are 2 seats per canoe, however drop-in seats are available
for rental at $2. per seat –1 per canoe. We offer
at no charge a seat cushion for those riding in the bottom
of the canoe. One person, the designated “Trip Leader”
handles all correspondence including reservations, payments,
and turning in release forms. Reservations must be made
at least two weeks in advance and are confirmed with a 50%
deposit.
28. How do we know where to stop?
Each party is given a river map and we review your take-out
locations with you. All take-outs are clearly marked. You
cannot get lost.
29. Do we have a guide?
No, guides are not required. The river does not fork, and
take out points are marked by a non-movable object, such
as a bridge. We do have river guides available for hire
for an additional fee. River guides are available for $75.00
per guide for the Hannah Ford Trip and $85.00 per guide
for the Island Ford trip.
30. Where do I go to the bathroom while
on the river?
There are no restrooms on the river. For your convenience
we do have Port a-johns available at the river shop and
at our Hannah Ford Take-out.
|
