Posted on: June 17, 2008 by Whisper Mountain
It’s that time of year when its a pleasure to be in the great outdoors. Spring summer and fall is an explosion of natural wonders in Marshall and Hot Springs North Carolina. Adventure travelers can go by land to discover nature’s display along rocky precipices, and bald mountains. Or adventure seekers can take an exciting rafting or kayaking trip down the French Broad River. During years of plentiful rain, The French Broad River has some challenging Class three and four rapids. Certain sections of the French Broad River in Asheville and Marshall should be approached with caution by the beginning kayaker.
Kayaking Basics First
For the beginner, it might be best to learn some kayaking basics before shooting the rapids. For the well-seasoned kayaker, The French Broad River offers some of the most thrilling white water in the Western North Carolina area. From Marshall, Take 251 South and look alongside the right side of the road on the way to Asheville. There are multiple river parks with parking and picnic benches where a kayaker can gently put in and spend the day paddling.
There are also some excellent Whitewater Rafting companies in Marshall and Hot Springs, and quite a few to choose from. All of the Whitewater Rafting companies offer safe, fun rafting down the French Broad River. The rafting companies in the Marshall and Hot Springs area provide guides for rafting and float trips. These trips are typically four hours, eight hours, or overnight.
Rafting companies have different packages that appeal to a wide group of rafters. This includes people who just want to relax and enjoy “float” trip down the French Broad River. The Blue Ridge Rafting Company in Hot Springs offers a Float Trip on the calmer part of the French Broad.
Raft and Kayak Rentals
French Broad Rafting Expeditions also provides rentals. Rentals differ from raft trips and float trips because they are unguided. Without the guide, a person or group may rent a raft or duckie, which resembles a kayak, for a less expensive rate. For example, a half-day float trip will cost $45, while a duckie rental is only $25 for the same amount of time. All transportation and equipment is provided and rafters put in near relatively calm locations on the French Broad River, for maximum enjoyment.
Whitewater Rafting on the French Broad River
For those looking for a River Adventure designed for a group, Huck Finn Rafting Adventures, located in downtown Hot Springs, might be the place to try. They will design a custom Trip for a group, and make it a memorable trip down the river for all. The other rafting companies in the Hot Springs and Marshall area are Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) and USA Raft. Both have locations on Highway 25/70, just south of Hot Springs, and very close to some of the best rafting on the French Broad River.
Tips for Rafting Near Marshall and Hot Springs
Some tips for whitewater rafting on the French Broad River include: wear sandals or shoes that can get wet, bring some water along for the trip, avoid bringing electronic devices (cell phones, ipods, cameras) that will be destroyed by water, pack a warm set of clothes and towel for the end of the trip.
Some of the most scenic sections of the French Broad River in Marshall and Hot Springs are best experienced on float trips and whitewater rafting trips downriver. Plan a day on the French Broad River with family and friends and experience the North Carolina outdoors in all of its splendor.
Posted on: April 11, 2008 by Whisper Mountain
The short 22 mile drive northwest of Asheville, North Carolina to the town of Marshall is the road to true mountain living. Located in the heart of the Blue Ridge and Smoky mountains between Weaverville, NC and Hot Springs, NC Marshall is a thriving center of Appalachian traditions, art, outdoor sports and more. Marshall, NC is the county seat of Madison County, created in 1851 from both Buncombe and Yancey counties. The Madison County Courthouse, built in 1906, is a gorgeous centerpiece to downtown Marshall. A 2-story, Neo-Classical Revival design, the courthouse features a four stage polygonal cupola, dome roof, clocks and other architectural details.
Marshall: Incredible NC Mountain Real Estate
Marshall, NC is a place where traditional rural living meets a diverse cultural community. It is a beautiful town and a great place to work, live, play and grow. At Whisper Mountain we are located a short drive from downtown Marshall and the arts, crafts, outdoor activities and music available in this friendly, small town of just over 840 residents. Homeowners who love the outdoors and are in search of more remote NC mountain real estate can find NC mountain land for sale at Whisper Mountain. The land our lots sit on has been designated to help preserve the mountain heritage of communities like nearby Marshall. For more information about mountain living in Marshall, NC visit the Madison County Tourism web site.
Listen to the Land: The Outdoor Exploration of Marshall, North Carolina
Madison County is approximately 450 square miles and about 73% is forest. The U.S. Forest Service manages about a quarter of the county that serves as public land. Marshall is a paradise for anyone who loves outdoor sports and being in nature. National Forestland offers miles of trails, including access to the famous Appalachian Trail. Visitors and residents of Marshall, NC enjoy a multitude of outdoor activities such as: hiking, mountain biking, river kayaking, mountain climbing, fishing, camping, horseback riding, white water rafting, skiing, snowboarding, and snow and water tubing. In the North Carolina mountains trout, bass, crappie and muskie are abundant in both streams and rivers. Excellent fishing can be found in the French Broad and the East Fork rivers or Shut-In, Big Laurel and Dry creeks. Public and private camping is available throughout Madison County and off road and on road mountain biking is popular. The French Broad River also provides moderate Class II and Class III rapids for individuals and families interested in rafting. Equine enthusiasts can experience daily horseback rides through the varied mountain terrain at Sandy Bottom Trail Rides in Marshall. The ranch has been family owned and operated for 3 generations and offers 1, 2, 3 and 4-hour trail rides. Buggy and wagon rides can also be booked and when possible feature a visit to the 200-year old
Little Pine Garnet Mine. Marshall, NC: Preserving the Mountain Tradition of Western North Carolina Arts and Crafts
Marshall has become a hot spot for some of the best WNC artists and craftspeople, as well as artists from around the country. The Madison County Arts Council formed in 1978, is a community based nonprofit organization dedicated to providing creative resources and services to local artists and the public. Annual arts and crafts festivals are prominent throughout Madison County. Downtown Marshall is home to a variety of events where traditional and contemporary artists are featured.
Discover Bluegrass in Downtown Marshall, North Carolina
In addition to arts and crafts, Marshall is home to many music events celebrating the musical traditions and history of North Carolina. Mountain music lovers from throughout the region come to hear bluegrass, country, folk, rock and roll and more. On Main Street in Marshall local residents gather at the Marshall Railroad Depot, a restored train station that is now home to a cafe featuring local music and entertainment every weekend.
