North Carolina Eco Tours

Headwaters of the French Broad River...
North Carolinas Best Kept Secret!

Canoe, kayak or go tubing in Transylvania County on the beautiful
French Broad River located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, of North Carolina.


Headwaters Outfitters invites you to explore the French Broad River, quite possibly one of the oldest rivers in the world. Flowing from some of the worlds oldest mountains, all the way to the Mississippi, this historical river averages a depth of 3 to 5 feet. Along the way, you'll find some fine places for catching a fish or taking a dip in 8 to 12 foot holes.


As you canoe along the river you can discover the beaver, mink, muskrat, fox, deer, and occasional bear that make their homes in the twists and turns of the Long Man, so named by the Cherokee. Embark on an experience in awe at the hands of caring, professional canoe and kayak outfitters.

Headwater Outfitters offers river adventures for everyone. Whether you're an experienced paddler or you've never set foot in a canoe or kayak before, we provide you an adventure you'll never forget.

AppalachianATV Adventures offers complete ATV guided trailrides in the National Forests of western North Carolina from April 1 to December 15.

Wintertime riding in the Chattahoochee National Forest can be arranged for groups of up to 8 riders, weather permitting.


Operating with a Special Use Permit from the U.S. Forest Service, you will experience a unique, forest friendly riding environment that is both fun and educational. Over 28 miles of steep, winding trails will take you deep into the National Forest.

Our tours are ideal for 1st time riders, at least 16 years of age since a comprehensive safety training session precedes every ride. Riders between 16-18 years of age must have signed parental consent.


Safety equipment is provided but bring your raingear for all-weather comfort on these fun and easy to ride ATVs with automatic transmissions. Safety Guides accompany riders all along the way.

Morning tours depart from Highlands, NC at 9:30 AM and return at 2:30 PM. Afternoon tours depart at 12:30 PM and return at 5:30 PM. A picnic lunch is included in both morning and afternoon tours.

New for 2004, all-day combination tours with river outfitters provide the half-day ATV tour with a half-day of tubing, rafting or kayaking on the Tuckaseegee River, or flatwater paddling in canoes or kayaks on one of three pristine mountain lakes. We do all the driving so you can concentrate on the fun.

A special all-day ATV Challenge Course program incorporating initiative games for team building with small business groups is also new for 2004.