- Closest whitewater rafting outfitter to Asheville, 22 miles northwest, Blue Heron Whitewater offers a variety of trips on the French Broad River. Choose the trip that fits your group and schedule. Half-day trips enjoy five miles, class II-III rapids, minimum age is 8. Full day trips enjoy eight miles, a fresh, deli-style lunch and a class IV rapid, minimum age is 8. Families with younger children can choose the calm water Float Trip, minimum age is 4. When water levels permit, the adventurous may opt to paddle inflatable kayaks, or guide their own raft. Blue Heron guides share the best rapid routes they know, and in the pools between, the human and natural history of this ancient river corridor. We provide the river-related gear, including splash jacket and pants,and wetsuits in cool weather, no extra charge. Hot showers on site. High quality experience, competitively priced. A fun rafting trip engages you with the mountains. When you are on the river you are no longer a spectator!