FAQs

Yes, reservations are required for a guaranteed spot; however, we may have room for a walk-in’s.

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The average float time with Zen Tubing is approximately 2 hours, though this may vary depending on river conditions such as water levels and wind. For a relaxed experience, we recommend planning for a leisurely float that may be a bit shorter or longer based on these natural elements.

The process is simple and hassle-free! Arrive 30 minutes early to park at 1648 Brevard Road and check in. After a brief Safety Talk, we’ll shuttle you about 3 miles upstream to the starting point, where you’ll get your tube, PFD (life jacket), paddles, and cooler carriers if purchased—plus instructions before launching.

Plan on about a 2-hour float, give or take based on weather and water levels. You’ll finish back at our South Asheville outpost where your car is parked. The river exit closes at 4:00 PM, and all guests must be off the water by then.

During our 2026 season, Zen Tubing will be open Tuesday – Sunday and closed on Monday’s with trips starting at 10 a.m., and the last trip departing at 2 p.m. River exit closes 4 p.m.

Minimum Age & Weight
For safety, guests must be at least 6 years old and weigh 35 lbs or more to float. One person per tube—children may not share a tube with an adult.

Adult Supervision Required
Every group must include at least one adult (18+) who will accompany and supervise all minors for the entire float. All guests under 18 must remain clipped to their parent/guardian for the whole trip and may not float alone or separate from their group.

Life Jackets for Kids
All guests under 14 must wear a PFD (life jacket), which we provide.

This is for your child’s own protection and a requirement by our insurance.

• A super deluxe tube with a backrest, cup holder,  covered bottom and the ability to hook together to your friends
• A PFD or life jacket (required for 14 and under, optional for adults — we highly recommend everyone wear one)
• One or two paddles PER GROUP
• Free parking
• Shuttle ride
• A great experience!

Zen Tubing South Asheville Location go to 1648 Brevard Road, Arden, NC 28704.

Free parking is available. Once checked in we shuttle you upstream to the starting point. You will then take a leisurely, lazy float downstream back to the outpost on the tube of your choice where your keys, car and dry clothes will be waiting. Forget to bring a dry t-shirt? We have plenty for sale.

We offer cooler carrier tubes for coolers up to 36 qt. coolers and 50 lbs. We have the carriers only and you must bring your own cooler. Adult beverages are allowed but NO GLASS please. For only $20 each add the cooler carrier to your reservation when you check out or get one when you check in.

Yes, we ask that you wear some type of foot protection. These can be flip flops, sandals, Tevas, Crocs, river shoes, old tennis shoes, etc. If you don’t have any, we sell river shoes at our on-site shop.

Yes. Coolers are welcome, only if you have reserved a cooler carrier tube. Bring your own cooler (up to 36 quarts and 50 lbs), or we have a limited quantity of 20 quart coolers available on-site that are first come first serve. Cooler Carriers are available for $20. Adult beverages are allowed but NO DISTILLED SPIRITS. Glass containers are strictly prohibited. Littering is illegal. We ask that you please hold on to your empty cans and other trash and return it to the outpost. We have trash cans at our outpost where you may dispose of garbage properly when you return.

See our Cooler & Beverage Policy HERE for all details.

No, unfortunately we cannot be responsible for your own tube or cooler carrier.  This is strictly prohibited.

Personal flotation devices are required for tubers who are 14-years-old and younger. It’s optional if you’re 15 and up, but we highly recommend wearing one, regardless of age.

You should wear your bathing suit or shorts, basically anything you are comfortable getting wet in. Footwear is required (flip flops, sandals, old sneakers, etc.) You will be on the river for approximately 2 hours, so we also recommend that you bring sunscreen and water or Gatorade type beverage to drink.

Do not take anything on the river that you do not wish to lose or cannot get wet. If you drop it in the river, it’s most likely gone forever. This includes cell phones, electronics, jewelry, wallets, keys, etc. We are not responsible for any items lost or damaged that you bring on the river. You may lock personal belongings in your car, and we will keep your keys securely for you while you are on the river. We give back your keys…the river doesn’t.

We offer lockers for guests who UBER or shuttle to our location. If you plan on driving to us your vehicle is your locker. We will hold your keys for you in a safe, dry, and secure place so that the river doesn’t eat them (the river loves cell phones – leave them in your car).

Yes, you will get wet but not soaked (unless you want to – it feels great on a hot day!)

The water depth can vary from one spot to the next. In most places it’s about knee to waist deep on an adult (perfect for tubing) but can be 5-6 ft in some places. Because of varying depth, we again highly recommend wearing a personal flotation device.

The French Broad River is wide and gets a lot of sunlight. Average temps in the summer can reach 75 degrees or more (nice).

At Zen Tubing, we operate rain or shine! If you’ve purchased trip protection, you’ll have peace of mind knowing you can cancel and receive a refund. Without trip protection, please remember that cancellations must be made at least 72 hours in advance to qualify for a refund.

If rain begins during your trip, we encourage you to keep floating and enjoy the experience! However, if you encounter thunder or lightning, please pull over to the bank and stay in your tube until the storm passes. Generally, storms move through the mountains quickly, so once the thunder and lightning subside, you can continue your adventure.

Please note that due to the unique landscape surrounding the river, we are unable to retrieve guests if it starts to rain or storm. In the event that we must close due to severe weather or unsafe water levels, we will promptly contact guests with reservations and update all our social media channels. Your safety and enjoyment are our top priorities!

Sorry, no, for the safety of pets and other floaters, no dogs are allowed.

As you float, keep an eye out for native wildlife—river otters, bald eagles, deer along the banks, and trout gliding through the waters are common sights, adding to the magic of the experience.

See our Cooler & Beverage Policy HERE!