Tubing traffic fills French Broad on July Fourth holiday

Jason Sandford

Jason Sandford is a reporter, writer, blogger and photographer interested in all things Asheville.

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Just wanted to take a minute to note what several people have reported anecdotally: that the French Broad River in Asheville saw a huge number of paddlers, tubers, boaters, etc. on July Fourth. The waterway was so busy that some said it resembled a traffic-jammed interstate.

A couple of factors were in play: a record-breaking heat wave; the extreme popularity of The Bywater; and steady interest in what’s happening down along the river in general. I don’t think one can under-estimate the influence of The Bywater.

The bar is now not only a driving destination, it is a boating destination. So much so that the bar, I believe, charges people coming in off the river a little fee. The bar is so popular there that it is difficult to find a parking place on week days and weekends.

Anway, it’s great to see the French Broad River in Asheville growing as a recreation destination. It’s always been on the radar of fishermen and paddling enthusiasts, but it’s clear that its popularity with the general population is on the rise.