FAQ

these are the most common questions we receive from our customers

Most Frequently Asked Questions

How often do trips leave?

Our Paddling Adventures are offer 7 days a week April through October, with length and start times depending on current river conditions.  Tubing Trips are 7 days a week, Memorial Day through labor day. 

Do I need to make reservations?

Yes, we reservations are required and should be made online with our easy online booking.  You will receive a confirmation email with next steps and important details for your day. 

What is Check-in?

When checking in before your river trip, you will need to have 15-30 minutes to ensure you have parked in the correct location, verified all waivers were signed via reservation confirmation email, purchase any last minute gear you need, and meet river host for shuttle to put in.  

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 for paddling trips. 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. Because the river twists and turns, you are not likely to see other paddlers while on the river.

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 flotation 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 & SHOES at all times while on the river!

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 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.
What is the age limit?

All our paddling and tubing trips are recommended for ages 4+, and do require that all participants be able to swim. This is determined at the discretion of parents and Headwaters Outfitters. Ask us ahead of time if there is a question.

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.
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.
How many people can ride in a canoe?

Prices are based on two people per canoe, which is ideal. No more than 3 adults or two adults and two small children may ride in the canoe. The weight of middle riders in a canoe, cannot be more than a combined weight of 150 lbs. We use a variety of canoes in our rental fleet, but each canoe has 2 contoured molded seats.  For the third person or kids, We also have drop-in seats available which adds a bench seat to the middle of the canoe. For those not wanting a drop-in seat, we are happy to provide a cushion for the person riding in the middle.

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 is the weather link we use most often. We operate trips in rain but do not operate when the river is high (above 3′ on the Rosman River Gauge), when it is thunderstorming, or when the sum of air and water temperature does not exceed 100 degrees.
What do I do if it starts lightning while I am on the river?
We do not operate river trips during lightning storms, however weather in the mountains can change drastically, so you can suddenly find yourself in the middle of a thunderstorm. 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 thunderstorm.
How cold is the water, how deep?
The French Broad begins at our river shop with the joining of its North and West 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 rainfall.

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 deepest channel. You will also find areas 10-12 feet deep, great fishing or swimming holes. The river on average is 30-40 feet wide.

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 northern water snake is the most commonly seen along the French Broad River and it is not poisonous.

Our Venomous Snakes Include:

  1. Copperhead (found throughout NC)
  2. Timber Canebrake Rattlesnake (found throughout 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 “Tree 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 and out from under tree branches.

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

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 waves 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-runable, but may include rapids which are only occasionally run.
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 30 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 your 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.

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 will be sent to you in your reservation confirmation email.  You cannot sign for a minor unless it is your own child whom you have legal custody of.

Can I bring my dog?

No Dogs are allowed on our River Tubing Trips. 

For paddling, well behaved dogs are allowed to participate.  However, if other people riding the bus have an allergy or fear of your dog, you may have to wait on the bus to make an extra shuttle to get your group to the put in.  We recommend all dogs be good swimmers, be used to being in canoes or kayaks and wear a dog lifejacket.  We do not rent life jackets for dogs, but we do have a nice selection for sale. Please at NO TIME during your trip, tie your pet to your boat.  If a capsize occurs, your dog needs to be able to swim to safety.  

 

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, so 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). There are many great places to pull your boat over and have a picnic, but please keep in mind that the land on both sides of the river is privately owned. Please be respectful and pack your trash out with you.

During the summer months we have local food trucks that park here at our shop and Taproom.  You can enjoy a nice lunch or dinner on select days with our food trucks.  

 

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 $20.00 (per person fee).  Reservations are required for all personal boats. 
  • Life Jackets– Everyone while on 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 3.
What is your alcohol policy?

Drug and Alcohol use and river activities such as canoeing, kayaking, tubing and swimming… do NOT mix.  We have a no alcohol policy for all our river trips. For tubing trips, no cooler tubes are allowed.  We have a Taproom on site, where you can enjoy a cold local beverage after your trip and hang out by the river. 

Can I fish?

Bring your fishing rod and North Carolina fishing license (available for purchase online at NC Wildlife Resources Commission)

What Should I Bring?
A great attitude – be ready for fun in the outdoors. Tennis shoes or river shoes- NO BARE FEET, NO FLIP FLOPS. 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 you to change into for your ride home.
What Should I Not 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. We do have dry bags and dry storage cases for purchase at our shop.
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 sides 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.
What if I miss my take-out/time or lose equipment?

In the last 30 years we have found that it is rare for guests to pass their take-out or to be late for their scheduled pick-up. 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.

  1. PASS your TAKE-OUT = $35 per canoe/kayak
  2. MISS your Scheduled pick-up = $20 per canoe/kayak
  3. LOSE equipment = $40 per lost life jacket, $20 per canoe paddle, $40 per lost kayak paddle
  4. BOAT RECOVERY = Starts at $40, plus $25 per hour
  5. Stolen, damaged or unrecoverable canoe fee $675
Do you have group discounts?

Yes, we offer group rates of for groups of 10 or more. 

If group numbers drop below the minimum number of 10 persons, you pay regular full trip rates. 

How do we know where to stop?
Each party is given a river map and your river host will review your take-out location during orientation, and before putting you on the river. All take-outs are clearly marked. You cannot get lost.
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 $150.00 per guide for the Hannah Ford Trip or our Island Ford trip.

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.
What is your cancellation policy?

As a small family owned and operated business, we require reservations with full payment at time of booking. Walk-ins and day of reservations are not guaranteed. River Trips depart rain or shine. If we have to cancel in case of Thunder/Lightening, Air/Water Temps, High Winds, or High Water Levels, then we will provide a full refund. For advanced notice cancellations we are willing to work with you the best we can. If you cancel 7 days before your trip, we will provide a full refund. If you cancel 1-6 days prior to trip, we will provide a 50% refund or a 100% credit to use for another time (no expiration). For day of reservation trips, if you are a NO CALL or NO SHOW, there is no refund.

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