Western North Carolina is home to the third largest river in the world, the French Broad River, and some of the world’s toughest rapids  are found on the Green River. These rivers attract river enthusiasts year round and most recently attracted two major manufactures.

Made Here:

Legacy Paddlesports, the parent company of Heritage, Native and liquidlogic kayaks relocated to Henderson County in 2012. Under their liquidlogic brand, the company designs and builds kayaks tough enough to perform at the notorious Green Race every November. The company also creates boats ideal for fishing and stand up paddling.

"The Green River is the best! Three sections of river to paddle from class II -V, dam control so it runs everyday of the year.. a unique and true paradise."
-Woody of Legacy Paddle Sports

Sierra Nevada Brewing Company also announced their east coast expansion in Henderson County in 2012. The company, who is extremely focused on the outdoors and sustainable efforts, fell in love with the French Broad River and purchased over 100 acres along the river for their facility. Since announcing their east coast location, the company has teamed up with several organizations, including the Western North Carolina Alliance (River Link) to advocate for river clean up and paddle trails.

Play Here         :

Want to paddle the Green River, but aren’t quite ready for “The Gorilla?” Green River Adventures offers trips for all skill levels and even waterfall hikes if paddling isn’t for you. The river group located in Saluda, NC offers trips for all different experience levels using liquidlogic gear.

“Where else can you find a wilderness whitewater run just minutes from a great downtown like Hendersonville? The Upper section of the Green River is a must do for adventurous folks wanting to get away from the crowds."
-Tim of Green River Adventures

The French Broad Paddle Trail project is currently underway as a means to connect the public to the French Broad River. Starting from the headwaters in Transylvania County, River Link has begun establishing campsites along the river and will continue to do so for the 140 miles of river on into Tennessee. The trail has encouraged river stewardship and promotes recreational uses of the French Broad River.

The rivers of Western North Carolina are excellent venues for fishing.  Whether in a Heritage boat, or fly fishing, the region offers numerous great fishing options nearby including Davidson River and North Mills River.