When the summer heat settles into the Blue Ridge valleys, the rivers around Asheville become the best place to spend an afternoon. You don't need much: a tube, sunscreen, and a cooler. Here are the spots worth knowing.

French Broad River

The French Broad is the most popular tubing run in the area, and for good reason. The stretch between Rosman and Brevard is gentle enough for beginners but long enough to feel like a real float. Headwaters Outfitters in Rosman rents tubes and shuttles you back to your car, so logistics are simple. Expect a two-to-three hour float depending on water levels. The river moves faster after rain, so check conditions before you go.

Mills River

If you want something quieter, Mills River is worth the short drive south of Asheville. It's shallower and slower than the French Broad, which makes it a good pick for families with young kids. There are no commercial outfitters on this stretch, so you'll need to bring your own tube. The put-in near the Mills River Recreation Area is easy to find, and the float back to the bridge takes about 90 minutes.

Broad River (Green River Cove)

For something with a little more character, the Green River Cove section of the Broad River sits about 45 minutes south of Asheville near Saluda. The gorge here is narrow and shaded, and the water stays cool even in July. This run has a few Class II-III rapids, so it's better suited to confident swimmers. Saluda Outfitters can point you to the right put-in for your group.

Bryson City

About an hour and a half west of Asheville, Bryson City is one of the most concentrated tubing hubs in the mountains. Three distinct runs are within easy reach of town. Deep Creek, inside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is the most popular: a shaded, forested float with small rapids and a couple of waterfalls visible from the water. The Tuckasegee River runs right through town and is a mellower option, good for all ages. And just a few minutes further, the Oconaluftee River in Cherokee offers another solid float on clear mountain water. Several outfitters in town rent tubes and handle shuttles. For a full rundown of options, Explore Bryson City has everything you need to plan the day.

A Few Things to Know Before You Go

Water levels change fast in the mountains. Always check the USGS stream gauge for whichever river you're floating before you head out — a river that's a lazy float one day can be a fast, pushy run the next. Wear water shoes; the rocky bottoms are hard on bare feet. And bring a dry bag for your phone and keys. Most outfitters rent them for a few dollars, and it's worth it.

The rivers around Asheville are at their best from late May through early September. Go on a weekday if you can — the French Broad in particular gets crowded on summer weekends.