MountainTrue

Coffee Hour with MountainTrue: French Broad Paddle Trail in Asheville, NC
2024-05-07 08:00 - 09:00 (America/New_York) | Wrong Way River Lodge & Cabins, 9 Midnight Drive, Asheville, 28806, United States
Join MountainTrue’s French Broad Paddle Trail Manager, Jack Henderson, for a presentation and discussion focused on the history, current status, and upcoming opportunities for growth along the French Broad Paddle Trail here in North Carolina and Tennessee.
This talk will educate attendees on what Paddle Trail staff and partners do, where funding comes from and how it’s used, the importance of equitable access, and some of the current projects we’re most excited about.
Light breakfast snacks will be provided for registered participants. Please come early enough to get settled in before the programming starts at 8.
On-site parking is limited but there is additional public parking within walking distance and several locations to lock up bikes if you feel like perusing the Greenway.
We are excited to provide more opportunities in 2024 for our supporters to learn about our work and the places we protect. Check out our other upcoming opportunities on our event calendar.

Headwaters Outfitters' Annual Upper French Broad River Clean-Up Day in Rosman, NC
2024-05-18 09:00 - 15:00 | Headwater Outfitters Outdoor Adventures, 25 Parkway Rd, Rosman, NC, 28772
Join French Broad Paddle Trail Manager, Jack Henderson, as he participates in Headwaters Outfitters’ Annual Upper French Broad River Clean-up Day.
This is not a MountainTrue-hosted event. Headwaters Outfitters supports MountainTrue, and we would love to help them in return.
Event info:
The French Broad River Clean-Up remains the best volunteer gig in town! Since the inception of “The Upper French Broad River Clean Up Day” in 1992, the annual river clean-up has netted more than 3,500 garbage bags, 4,500 old tires, and roughly 15 additional tons of trash along the upper French Broad. Over 3,000 volunteers have participated in the event, many returning year after year.
Volunteers show up at Headwaters Outfitters at 9:00 am. Everyone will be assigned Headwaters Outfitters canoes (2 people max per canoe, no kayaks please), paddles, life jackets, and garbage bags. Participants should bring sturdy gloves, river shoes, and tools such as trash grabbers or long-handled barbecue tongs to grab trash with. It’s always a good idea to bring a change of clothing for afterwards! After a light complimentary sponsored breakfast, volunteers will hit the river to collect as much trash as they can. Volunteers need to have solid paddling skills, be team players, and be ready to get dirty and work hard. Headwaters Outfitters will provide transportation to and from the river for the start and end of the day. Once back at the shop, a sponsored lunch will be provided thanks to generous donations from community members and businesses.
All volunteers must pre-register via Eventbrite to secure your spot. Space is limited.
Contact Danielle for more information or questions regarding this event at danielle@headwatersoutfitters.com

5Point Adventure Film Regional Screenings benefiting MountainTrue
2024-05-21 19:30 - 21:30 | The Grey Eagle, 185 Clingman Ave, Asheville, NC, 28801, United States
MountainTrue is excited to announce the 5 Point Film Festival and raffle presented by Mosaic Realty! All proceeds from the event go to fund the work of MountainTrue.
MountainTrue is hosting 3 separate screenings of the films on May 21st. Read below for regional information:
Asheville, NC: Join us at The Grey Eagle on Tuesday, May 21st for an evening of fun, adventure, and community. Don’t want to worry about making dinner? Come early and grab food from the Grey Eagle Taqueria. Drinks will be available for purchase from the bar.
Doors open at 6:30 pm, and the show starts at 7:30. Come early to grab your refreshments, pick up some MountainTrue merchandise and chat with MountainTrue staff. And, bring a friend!
The fun doesn’t stop there. We are thrilled to offer a raffle for items including brand names Yeti, Fat Tire and Stio: $5 for 1 ticket or 5 tickets for $20. Buy your tickets online or at the event. The drawings will take place after the films, so stick around to see if you won.
**RAFFLE is ONLY for the Asheville, NC screening.
Parking on site is limited but there is plenty of parking around the River Arts District.
Tickets for the Asheville films are being sold through the Grey Eagle Website.
**Members of MountainTrue will receive a discounted ticket price. Keep an eye on your inbox for the Member Survey Email which will include your discount code. Not a member of MountainTrue? Join now!
**Ticket purchases are non-refundable (but rest assured, your ticket sales go to fund the work of MountainTrue).
Brasstown, NC: Regretfully, we have had to cancel this showing.
Etowah, NC: More info here
About 5Point Film
OUR MISSION is to build community and inspire change by showcasing and celebrating impactful stories of adventure. We are dedicated to uplifting diverse storytellers and stories that allow us to better understand the world around us.
Film line-up (subject to minor changes):

JACKSON GOLDSTONE – SOLO (3 mins)
DIRECTOR: SCOTT SECCO
PRODUCERS: SEB KEMP, DANIEL GILLOOLEY
(CANADA, 3 MIN)
When he’s not turning heads trackside, Jackson Goldstone will be found turning trails into his own personal playground. While his 9 to 5 is piloting his Syndicate V10 downhill bike down heinous tracks in pursuit of podium glory, he absolutely loves to get out on his local trails with his daily driver and have some fun.ABOVE THE NOISE (6 mins)
DIRECTOR: ADAM DE SILVA
PRODUCER: EXPLORE IMPOSSIBLE
(UNITED KINGDOM, 6 MIN)
Above The Noise is a documentary short that explores how athlete Maja Kuczynska uses the sport of skydiving to escape the chaos of the modern world.CANYON CHORUS (17 mins)
DIRECTOR: CHRIS CRESCI
PRODUCER: DAVIS LOVE
(USA, 17 MIN)
Set against the backdrop of Desolation Canyon, UT, Mikah Meyer, a world-record traveler and LGBTQ+ advocate, reflects with three close friends and his mentor, Larry Edwards, on their stories and the power of mentorship within the queer community.SOUNDSCAPE 14
DIRECTOR: TIMMY O’NEILL
(USA, 15 MIN)
Soundscape features Erik Weihenmayer, a global adventure athlete and author who is completely blind, as he ascends a massive alpine rock face deep in the Sierra Nevada. Using expert camera work from Mikey Schaefer and emotive, novel animation to bring to life a concept by adaptive climbing pioneer Timmy O’Neill, the film is a surprising and soulful adventure.ELLADJ (6 mins)
DIRECTOR: MIKE SCHWARTZ
(CANADA, 6 MIN)
Elladj follows the remarkable journey of Elladj Balde, a Canadian figure skater who found his voice and fan base through wild ice-skating. The film centers on the transformative power of embracing one’s passion over measurable results.
**INTERMISSION**

SLIDES ON THE MOUNTAIN (30 mins)
DIRECTOR: SETH GILLIS
PRODUCERS: SANDY WARD, ALINE MAYERHOFFER
(CANADA, 30 MIN)
Two brothers from the Lil’wat Nation, Ricky and Talon, set out to ski Ts’zil (Slides On The Mountain) but face a steep learning curve before they can make their historic attempt.
FALL HARVEST (3 mins)
DIRECTOR: KEENAN DESPLANQUES
(USA, 2 MIN)
In 2023, Nicholi Rogatkin had a season-ending injury and was forced to sit out for the summer. Fall Harvest highlights the magic of getting back on a bike again after an injury.

STRONG GRANDMA (15 mins)
DIRECTORS: CECILIA BROWN, WINSLOW CRANE-MURDOCH
PRODUCER: CECILIA BROWN
(USA, 15 MIN)
95 year old Catherine Kuehn is a world record winning deadlifter. As she prepares for her last competition she reflects on the love, and the loss, that brought her to this moment.
WATCH THE TRAILER!
A HUGE Thank you to our Event Sponsors:
Presenting Sponsors: Caley Bowman, Rika Taylor and Mosaic Realty

Supporting Sponsors: Altura Architects, Youngblood Bicycles and Second Gear.

Catch MountainTrue tabling at "Acid on the River" hosted by plēb urban winery in Asheville, NC
2024-06-01 12:00 - 21:00 | Pleb Urban Winery, 289 Lyman St, Asheville, NC, 28801, United States
Catch MountainTrue staff tabling at “Acid on the River” hosted by our friends at plēb urban winery in Asheville, NC.
On June 1st, plēb urban winery will be releasing several wines in a lil’ celebration they call “Acid on the River”. MountainTrue will have a tent at the event as will some of our friends in the beer, wine, food, tattoo, charity, and art communities. No tickets are required for this event.
As is plēb tradition, come as you are… thirsty, hungry, and open-minded.
A little about plēb’s environmental initiatives:

by offering wine in kegs, they have saved approximately 8,000 bottles annually since 2019
they were nominated for the 2023 Visionary Leadership in Sustainable Business Award by the North Carolina Sustainable Business Council
they have partnered with Climate Hound (https://www.climatehound.io/) to reduce their carbon footprint

We are proud to support our friends at plēb urban winery and hope you will join us in supporting them!

MountainTrue river cleanup presented by Wicked Weed and Dewey Property in Asheville, NC
2024-06-08 12:30 - 17:30 | Craven Street River Access, 192 Riverside Dr., Asheville, NC, 28801
Join MountainTrue, Wicked Weed, and Dewey Property to cleanup our rivers!
Participants will meet at the Craven Street access on June 8 at 12:30 pm. We will then shuttle up to the Swannanoa at Biltmore Village and paddle and clean our way back. Stick around for the after-party at The Outpost. We will buy folks a celebratory Wicked Weed beer, provide appetizers, and have prizes for the weirdest trash collected.
We have a limited number of boats available to borrow, so make sure to register early if you need one. If you plan on bringing your own boat, please remember a paddle and your personal flotation device (PFD).
Children are allowed if they are comfortable in a canoe and can walk along the river for several hours picking up trash. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the duration of the outing.
Please remember to bring: snacks, water, sunscreen, sturdy shoes that can get wet, clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty and a change of clothes and towel (if desired).
A HUGE thank you to our sponsors for this event:

Snorkel the French Broad River's Headwaters in Rosman, NC
2024-06-22 10:00 - 14:00 | Champion’s Park River Access, Champion Park's River Access - 39 Old Turnpike Rd, Rosman, NC, 28772
Join MountainTrue staff and partners for a guided snorkeling experience on the French Broad River’s headwaters at Champion Park in Rosman, NC. Come immerse yourself amongst the vibrant and diverse aquatic life calling the cold, clear, waters of the upper French Broad home. Our guides will be Luke Etchison – Western Region Aquatic Wildlife Diversity Coordinator with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission and Kevin Merrill – Owner & Biologist with Oxbow River Snorkeling.
Luke and Kevin have intimate knowledge of the fish, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates on this particular site and within Western North Carolina in general. You’ll learn about what you’re seeing, the conservation and preservation efforts occurring to help protect these species and their habitats, and other regional water quality and outdoor recreation projects happening throughout the watershed.
Masks, snorkels, wetsuits, and booties can be rented through our partnership with Mountains to Seas. If you rent equipment, please make sure to complete ALL of the sizing fields for each ticketed guest to ensure we get the correct size for wetsuits and booties.
Due to the sensitivity of the site and the capacity of our guides, we will be limiting this adventure to two separate two-hour time slots with no more than ten people each.
The first tour starts at 10:00 AM and the second tour at 12:00 PM.
Please Note that snorkeling tours like this one are at the mercy of Mother Nature. High water velocity and poor visibility following a heavy rain event may create conditions unfavorable for this activity to continue as planned. If this occurs for our scheduled date, we will unfortunately need to cancel and refund any expenses.
Register:
**If the ticket type or timeslot that you need are not available please contact amy@mountaintrue.org for assistance or to be put on the waitlist. Registration will close on June 14th.
Register for the 10am tour
Register for the 12pm tour

Michael Franti and Spearhead in Asheville, NC benefiting the French Broad Riverkeeper Program!
2024-06-28 17:00 - 22:00, 2024-06-29 17:00 - 22:00 | The Salvage Station, 466 Riverside Drive, Asheville, NC, 28804, United States
Join us for the 2024 Michael Franti & Spearhead concert at the Salvage Station! We are thrilled to announce TWO nights in 2024: June 28th and 29th! Proceeds from the concert support the work of the French Broad Riverkeeper, a program of MountainTrue and the primary protector and defender of the French Broad River watershed. Get your tickets now!
Doors open at 5:00 pm and music starts at 6:00 pm. Please visit the Salvage Station’s event page for the most up to date information, tickets, parking information, and other FAQs.
Don’t forget to stop by the MountainTrue merch table to pick up your reusable tumbler from our generous supporters at Pirani! Custom engravings are available for a minimum suggested donation of $5. What better way to commemorate your experience AND support MountainTrue! *Tumbler sales and engraving donations go to benefit MountainTrue.

French Broad River Clean-Up – near Alexander, NC with Pirani 7/2
2024-07-02 09:00 - 12:00 | Alexander River Park, 2590 Old Marshall Highway, Alexander, NC, 28701
In celebration of Plastic Free July, MountainTrue is partnering with Pirani to clean up the French Broad River! Together, we aim to inspire our community to reduce waste, Leave No Trace, opt for reusables versus single-use items, and adopt sustainable living practices.
This clean-up will focus on the riparian areas of the river between Ledges River Park and Alexander River Park along Riverside Drive in northern Buncombe County. This will be a walking-based clean-up, focused on removing litter and larger items along the river and the road between these two parks.
MountainTrue will provide trash bags and buckets, grabbers, and garbage removal. Volunteers should bring their own gloves.
Children are welcome to attend this event, however, anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the duration of the outing.
Please remember to bring:
Change of clothes for after the event
Drinking water
Snacks
Gloves
This event will be rain or shine (with the exception of heavy rain).

MountainTrue Presents Brainy Brews: French Broad River Edition in Asheville, NC
2024-07-10 18:00 - 19:00 | The River Arts District Brewing Company, 13 Mystery Street, Asheville, NC, 28801, United States
Have you ever wondered if the French Broad River is safe to play in? Join MountainTrue’s French Broad Riverkeeper, Hartwell Carson, to learn more about the state of the French Broad River and MountainTrue’s current initiatives to improve the health of our River, and how you can help.
Our friends at The Rad Brewing Company have generously donated their space for this event. Seating is first come, first serve so come early to grab your seat and refreshments. If you’re thirsty, a percentage of proceeds from the “Stream of Conscience” beer will benefit the work of MountainTrue (while supplies last).
**Popcorn is available at the brewery but guests are welcome to bring in their own snacks and food.
While you are not required to RSVP, it will help us to have a headcount for the event.

Asheville River Day Cleanup presented by Lua Flora and the French Broad Riverkeeper Team in Asheville, NC-CANCELED
2024-07-13 11:00 - 16:00 | Craven Street River Access, 192 Riverside Dr., Asheville, NC, 28801
Due to unforeseen circumstances, we regret that the French Broad Riverkeeper must cancel the clean-up portion of this event. The music event is happening as planned. We hope you will consider attending to support Lua Flora and the other talented musicians. More information about Asheville River Day Concert can be found here.

French Broad Paddle Trail Clean Up Alexander to Walnut 7/19 near Alexander, NC
2024-07-19 09:00 - 14:00 | Alexander River Park, 2590 Old Marshall Highway, Alexander, NC, 28701
MountainTrue members and the general public are invited to help clean up trash with French Broad Paddle Trail Manager, Jack Henderson. The clean up will focus on the French Broad River between Alexander River Park and Walnut Island River Park in northern Buncombe County. This will be a paddle-based clean up, with the option to stay on land to clean up the access points and roadside areas if paddling is not of interest.
MountainTrue can provide canoes to volunteers with previous canoeing experience, but attendees are otherwise requested to bring their own boats. If you don’t have a boat, or have limited canoeing experience, you are welcome to come and help clean up the access areas.
There might also be an option to paddle out-and-back to Whittier Branch Island, a future Paddle Trail campsite, to clean up trash from the island and return to Alexander River Park (not paddling downstream). Overall, there are class 1-2 rapids on this section of river that require some knowledge and experience with paddling, especially with boats filled with collected garbage.
MountainTrue will provide a limited number of canoes, paddles, and PFDs. PFDs must be worn by all participants, so if you bring your own boat, bring a PFD. MountainTrue will also provide trash bags and removal of garbage. Volunteers should bring their own gloves.
Children are welcome to attend this event as a Paddle Access volunteer. They may be on the water if they have prior paddling experience. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the duration of the outing.
Please remember to bring:
Change of clothes for after the event
Drinking water
Snacks
Lunch
Gloves
PFD if bringing your own boat
This event will be rain or shine (with the exception of heavy rain). The event will be canceled if water levels are too high or too low.

Paddling Film Festival World Tour Screening in Asheville, NC
2024-08-22 18:30 - 21:00 | New Belgium Brewing Company, 21 Craven St, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
MountainTrue is excited to bring a showing of the Paddling Film Festival World Tour to Asheville, North Carolina on August 22, 2024! Organized by Paddling Magazine and Rapid Media, sponsored by Headwaters Outfitters, and hosted by New Belgium Brewing, this event is a fundraiser for MountainTrue’s French Broad Riverkeeper program, including Swim Guide and the French Broad Paddle Trail.
Since 2006, the Paddling Film Festival World Tour has showcased the best paddling films. You’ll be inspired to explore rivers, lakes, and oceans, push extremes, embrace the paddling lifestyle, and appreciate the wild places. Since Rapid Media launched the festival in 2006, the World Tour has screened 959 times to more than 282,864 audience members. Rapid Media has awarded $71,000 to paddling filmmakers and helped raise tens of thousands of dollars for charitable causes. The Paddling Film Festival World Tour has become one of the largest paddling events in the world.
Doors to New Belgium’s Brewhouse will open at 6:00 PM, and the show will begin around 6:30. We’ll have several short films before an intermission, which will feature a short presentation about the work of MountainTrue’s French Broad Riverkeeper program and Headwaters Outfitters, and a raffle featuring a variety of outdoor gear and swag. Following the intermission, there will be one longer film and a couple more short clips before wrapping up for the evening at 9:00. Raffle tickets will be sold at the event.
Hungry or Thirsty? New Belgium Brewing will have a food truck on site and beer for sale inside the event space. MountainTrue will have popcorn available for free and non-alcoholic beverages for sale. Guests are welcome to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages.
Tickets are $15.00 in advance for adults and $20.00 at the door (if available). Kids under the age of 12 are $5.
**Online registration will close on 8/21/2024. Tickets may be available at the door but please email amy@mountaintrue.org to check availability.
Any other questions can be sent to jack@mountaintrue.org

French Broad River Clean-Up – Paddling Pisgah Forest to Penrose w/ The Hub
2024-08-29 10:00 - 16:00 | Penrose Boating Access Area, Apac Drive, Pisgah Forest, NC, 28768
Come help MountainTrue and The Hub clean up the French Broad River in Transylvania County between Pisgah Forest River Access and Penrose Boating Access Area. This will be a boat-based cleanup on a 5.5-mile section of calm water with the option to clean access points if you do not wish to be on the water.
MountainTrue will provide a limited number of canoes to volunteers with previous paddling experience, but attendees are otherwise welcome and encouraged to bring their own boats and gear. If you don’t have a boat, or have limited paddling experience, you are welcome to join and help clean up the access points.
Children are welcome to attend this event as a Paddle Access volunteer. They may be on the water if they have prior paddling experience. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the duration of the outing.
Please remember to bring:
Clothes that can get dirty and wet during the event
Change of clothes for after the event
Drinking water
Snacks
Lunch
Gloves
PFD/boat/gear if bringing your own boat
MountainTrue and The Hub will provide:
– Canoes
-PFDs and paddles to those who signed up to borrow a boat
– Trash bags
– Disposal of trash afterwards
– Shuttle of people and gear between the put-in and take-out
This event will be rain or shine (with the exception of heavy rain). The event will be canceled if water levels are too high or too low.

MountainTrue 2024 Annual Gathering in Asheville, NC
2024-09-14 15:30 - 17:30 | Devil’s Foot, 131 Sweeten Creek Rd., Ste 10, Asheville, NC, 28803, United States
You’re invited to the Annual MountainTrue Member Gathering on Saturday, September 14th. We will be back at Devil’s Foot Beverage in Asheville, NC this year.
Come early at 3 pm to meet our Board Members. General programming will begin at 3:30 pm and will include reflecting on our achievements to date in 2024 and honoring outstanding Volunteers. We will have heavy snacks and MountainTrue will cover the cost of your first beer, wine or n/a beverage.
The fun doesn’t stop there. Stick around after the business wraps for a fiery round of MountainTrue-themed trivia.
This event is open to current members of MountainTrue. Check your current membership status here or by emailing members@mountaintrue.org. If you’re not a current member, we would love to have you join us — You don’t want to miss out on the fun!
Come raise a glass with us to another year of being stronger together!
This event is free to current members but, if you would like to help us cover the cost of the event, the suggested donation per attendee is $25. This can be made as an additional donation on the registration form.

Fall Float on the French Broad Paddle Trail with MountainTrue and Headwaters Outfitters in Rosman, NC
2024-09-21 10:30 - 15:00 | Headwater Outfitters Outdoor Adventures, 25 Parkway Rd, Rosman, NC, 28772
Come float the headwaters of the French Broad River with Headwaters Outfitters, MountainTrue, and local partners in celebration of North Carolina being the Great Trails State. The French Broad River was designated a Tennessee State Scenic River in 1968, a North Carolina State Trail in 1987, and officially launched as the French Broad Paddle Trail by MountainTrue and RiverLink in 2012. MountainTrue is North Carolina State Parks’ Partner Organization for the French Broad River State Trail and leads watershed-wide Paddle Trail efforts through its French Broad Riverkeeper program based in Asheville.
While the French Broad Paddle Trail flows for over 140 miles in both North Carolina and Tennessee, the upper sections in Transylvania County have become especially popular due to the plentiful access, calm water, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. This float will experience all of these factors as we travel from the river’s beginnings in Rosman to Headwaters Outfitters’ Hannah Ford Campground, a distance of 8 miles and approximately 3 hours. Before the float, we’ll present some light programming to cover the history, present status, and future plans for the Paddle Trail, and afterward – there’s an option to attend the annual “Paddle to the Pork Bluegrass Festival” happening at Hannah Ford Campground or be shuttled back to your car and head into Brevard for an evening of your choosing.
Participants should have prior paddling experience and be comfortable navigating their boat of choice in moving water. Boats and gear can be rented from Headwaters Outfitters, or you’re welcome to bring your own. Lunch will be eaten along the river, so plan to pack your own or reserve a catered option.
We hope you’ll join us for a beautiful start to autumn here on the French Broad River in Transylvania County.
Feel free to reach out to Jack Henderson, MountainTrue’s French Broad Paddle Trail Manager, at jack@mountaintrue.org with any questions.
Click this link for ticket options and to book your trip: https://fareharbor.com/embeds/book/headwatersoutfitters/items/544504/availability/1448057332/book/?flow=no&full-items=yes

**CANCELED** Plastics Please" river clean-up in Asheville, NC
2024-10-05 13:00 - 15:00 | Smith Mill Creek, 1068 Patton Ave, Asheville, NC, 28806
DUE TO THE AFTERMATH OF HURRICANE HELENE, THIS EVENT IS CANCELED FOR OCT 5 AND 6.
Join MountainTrue and partners from Sierra Club, Enviro Action Committee and Plastic Free WNC to clean up Smith Mill Creek. Our main haul will be single-use plastics, but we’ll get whatever trash we can. Then, we’ll move down the street to call on our large retailers, such as Ingles, to reduce their single-use plastic contributions to a growing pollution problem in our watershed.
Please remember to bring:
Change of clothes for after the event
Drinking water
Snacks
Gloves
**Due to the possibility of urban and potentially hazardous trash in this creek, please no one under the age of 12. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the entire outing.
Rain date: is Sunday, Oct. 6th. Please save both dates on your calendar.

**CANCELED** MountainTrue Volunteer Appreciation Party in Asheville, NC
2024-10-08 18:00 - 19:00 | The Outpost, 521 Amboy Rd, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
DUE TO THE AFTERMATH OF HURRICANE HELENE, THIS EVENT IS CANCELED FOR OCT 8.
Have you volunteered with MountainTrue this year? We want to acknowledge and celebrate the folks who have gotten in the weeds and dirt (literally and figuratively) with us. Let’s be honest, we know time is precious. Any time you spend supporting our efforts is greatly appreciated.
Let us say thanks by buying you a drink, providing some light appetizers and a chance to hang out with fellow volunteers and MountainTrue staff.
We will be at The Outpost in Asheville, NC on Tuesday, October 8th from 6 to 7 pm. (If it’s raining, look for us under the covered area).
Don’t forget that MountainTrue volunteers are eligible for a complimentary annual membership to MountainTrue. To receive your complimentary membership, please email members@mountaintrue.org.

**CANCELED** Hellbender Puppet crafting night with Street Creature Puppet Collective in Asheville, NC
2024-10-10 18:00 - 20:00 | Asheville Mall, 3 S Tunnel Rd., Asheville, NC, 28805
DUE TO THE AFTERMATH OF HURRICANE HELENE, THIS EVENT IS CANCELED FOR OCT 10.
Join MountainTrue and Street Creature Puppet Collective for an evening crafting props to use in the Holiday Parade in Downtown Asheville on November 23rd. (Stay tuned for more information on how you can be involved with the parade). Help with a giant 3 person Hellbender puppet, painting cardboard fish cut outs and more! Originally scheduled for September 24th this has been rescheduled to October 10th.
You don’t have to be crafty to join this evening of fun (kids are welcome!). Wear clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty as we may be working with paint, glue, etc.
MountainTrue will provide light snacks and sparkling waters but participants are welcome to bring their own food and drink.
Specific instructions on how to find the studio will be sent once you register.

French Broad River Hurricane Helene Clean-up near Asheville, NC 10/31
2024-10-31 10:00 - 13:00 | Wrong Way River Lodge & Cabins, 9 Midnight Drive, Asheville, 28806, United States
Join MountainTrue’s Clean Water Team and staff from River Link to help remove debris and mitigate pollution in the French Broad.
Volunteers will meet at the Wrong Way River Lodge & Cabins at 10 am on Thursday, October 31st.
Please wear long sleeves, long pants and bring any food or drinks that you need.
Volunteer Safety Reminder: Always Wear Your PPE During Cleanups!
As more volunteers participate in river clean-ups and other recovery activities, many will be coming into contact with mud, sludge, sediment, and dust left behind by the storm. These materials may contain higher levels of pollutants and contaminants, so it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself.
To work safely, we recommend using the following personal protective equipment (PPE):
✔️Rubber boots that can be easily cleaned to prevent cross-contamination.
✔️Rubber gloves to protect your hands from direct contact with contaminated materials.
✔️N95 masks (or better) to reduce inhalation of harmful dust and particles.
✔️Long sleeves to protect your arms from direct contact with potentially harmful substances.
✔️Waterproof bandages to cover any cuts or abrasions, reducing the risk of infection.
✔️Safety glasses or goggles to shield your eyes from mud particles and dust.
After your clean-up activities, be sure to shower as soon as possible to remove any remaining contaminants from your skin and clothing. Given the lack of running water in many areas, you may want to arrange your shower plans before signing up for a clean-up. It’s also a good idea to make sure you are up to date on your tetanus shot.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your safety while helping our community recover.

French Broad River Hurricane Helene Clean-up in Arden, NC 11/8
2024-11-08 09:00 - 12:00 | Glen Bridge River Park, 77 Pinner Road, Arden, NC, 28704
Come join the French Broad Riverkeeper team in cleaning up trash and debris left behind by Hurricane Helene at Glen Bridge River Park in Arden. We will focus on the park itself, along with riparian areas on both sides of the river, extending down to Corcoran Paige River Park.
Feel free to bring your boat to retrieve trash from the water, and if you do – bring your PFD and appropriate clothing and footwear.
Please wear long sleeves, long pants, work boots, rubber boots and/or waders. We will have protective equipment available (gloves, glasses, masks), but feel free to bring your own as well. Volunteers are also encouraged to bring tools (loppers, saws, shovels, ladders, etc.) to help dislodge and collect garbage.
We hope to provide lunch for volunteers at the end of the event, but that is not guaranteed, so bring water and snacks. and any food or drinks that you need.
Volunteer Safety Reminder: Always Wear Your PPE During Cleanups!
As more volunteers participate in river clean-ups and other recovery activities, many will be coming into contact with mud, sludge, sediment, and dust left behind by the storm. These materials may contain higher levels of pollutants and contaminants, so it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself.
To work safely, we recommend using the following personal protective equipment (PPE):
✔️Rubber boots that can be easily cleaned to prevent cross-contamination.
✔️Rubber gloves to protect your hands from direct contact with contaminated materials.
✔️N95 masks (or better) to reduce inhalation of harmful dust and particles.
✔️Long sleeves to protect your arms from direct contact with potentially harmful substances.
✔️Waterproof bandages to cover any cuts or abrasions, reducing the risk of infection.
✔️Safety glasses or goggles to shield your eyes from mud particles and dust.
After your clean-up activities, be sure to shower as soon as possible to remove any remaining contaminants from your skin and clothing. Given the lack of running water in many areas, you may want to arrange your shower plans before signing up for a clean-up. It’s also a good idea to make sure you are up to date on your tetanus shot.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your safety while helping our community recover.

French Broad River Hurricane Helene Clean-up in Marshall 11/14
2024-11-14 09:00 - 12:00 | Redmon Dam River Access, 2753 Redmon Rd., Marshall, NC, 28753, United States
Come join the French Broad Riverkeeper team in cleaning up trash and debris left behind by Hurricane Helene at Redmon Dam River Access downstream of Marshall. We will be focusing on the park itself, along with riparian areas on river-right, extending downstream as far as we can walk.
Please wear long sleeves, long pants, work boots, rubber boots and/or waders. We will have protective equipment available (gloves, glasses, masks), but feel free to bring your own as well. Volunteers are also encouraged to bring tools (loppers, saws, shovels, ladders, etc.) to help dislodge and collect garbage.
We hope to provide lunch for volunteers at the end of the event, but that is not guaranteed, so bring water and snacks. and any food or drinks that you need.
Volunteer Safety Reminder: Always Wear Your PPE During Cleanups!
As more volunteers participate in river clean-ups and other recovery activities, many will be coming into contact with mud, sludge, sediment, and dust left behind by the storm. These materials may contain higher levels of pollutants and contaminants, so it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself.
To work safely, we recommend using the following personal protective equipment (PPE):
✔️Rubber boots that can be easily cleaned to prevent cross-contamination.
✔️Rubber gloves to protect your hands from direct contact with contaminated materials.
✔️N95 masks (or better) to reduce inhalation of harmful dust and particles.
✔️Long sleeves to protect your arms from direct contact with potentially harmful substances.
✔️Waterproof bandages to cover any cuts or abrasions, reducing the risk of infection.
✔️Safety glasses or goggles to shield your eyes from mud particles and dust.
After your clean-up activities, be sure to shower as soon as possible to remove any remaining contaminants from your skin and clothing. Given the lack of running water in many areas, you may want to arrange your shower plans before signing up for a clean-up. It’s also a good idea to make sure you are up to date on your tetanus shot.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your safety while helping our community recover.

French Broad River Sample Blitz in Asheville 11/14
2024-11-14 10:00 - 15:00 | MountainTrue — Asheville, 29 North Market Street, Asheville, NC, 28801, United States
Help members of the French Broad River water team take water samples to assess Hurricane Helene’s impact on some of our sewer infrastructure. We’ll meet at the MountainTrue Asheville Office where we will give out supplies and a map before dividing up to grab samples and do visual assessments of some of our region’s sewer lines. We’ll teach you everything you need to know.
Please wear long sleeves, long pants, work boots, rubber boots and/or waders, and bring any snacks or drinks you may need.
End time will depend on how quickly we complete our sampling.
Volunteer Safety Reminder: Always Wear Your PPE During Cleanups or Sampling!
As more volunteers participate in river clean-ups and other recovery activities, many will be coming into contact with mud, sludge, sediment, and dust left behind by the storm. These materials may contain higher levels of pollutants and contaminants, so it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself.
To work safely, we recommend using the following personal protective equipment (PPE):
✔️Rubber boots that can be easily cleaned to prevent cross-contamination.
✔️Rubber gloves to protect your hands from direct contact with contaminated materials.
✔️N95 masks (or better) to reduce inhalation of harmful dust and particles.
✔️Long sleeves to protect your arms from direct contact with potentially harmful substances.
✔️Waterproof bandages to cover any cuts or abrasions, reducing the risk of infection.
✔️Safety glasses or goggles to shield your eyes from mud particles and dust.
After your clean-up activities, be sure to shower as soon as possible to remove any remaining contaminants from your skin and clothing. Given the lack of running water in many areas, you may want to arrange your shower plans before signing up for a clean-up. It’s also a good idea to make sure you are up to date on your tetanus shot.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your safety while helping our community recover.

French Broad River Hurricane Helene Clean-up in Alexander 11/21
2024-11-21 09:00 - 12:00 | Alexander River Park, 2590 Old Marshall Highway, Alexander, NC, 28701
Come join the French Broad Riverkeeper team in cleaning up trash and debris left behind by Hurricane Helene at Whittier Branch, a future French Broad Paddle Trail campsite adjacent to Alexander River Park. If Alexander River Park is still closed, we will focus on the riparian areas upstream of the park and also the island, via ferrying over from river-right.
Please bring a boat if you have one, and if you do – bring your PFD and appropriate clothing and footwear.
Please wear long sleeves, long pants, work boots, rubber boots and/or waders. We will have protective equipment available (gloves, glasses, masks), but feel free to bring your own as well. Volunteers are also encouraged to bring tools (loppers, saws, shovels, ladders, etc.) to help dislodge and collect garbage.
We hope to provide lunch for volunteers at the end of the event, but that is not guaranteed, so bring water and snacks. and any food or drinks that you need.
Volunteer Safety Reminder: Always Wear Your PPE During Cleanups!
As more volunteers participate in river clean-ups and other recovery activities, many will be coming into contact with mud, sludge, sediment, and dust left behind by the storm. These materials may contain higher levels of pollutants and contaminants, so it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself.
To work safely, we recommend using the following personal protective equipment (PPE):
✔️Rubber boots that can be easily cleaned to prevent cross-contamination.
✔️Rubber gloves to protect your hands from direct contact with contaminated materials.
✔️N95 masks (or better) to reduce inhalation of harmful dust and particles.
✔️Long sleeves to protect your arms from direct contact with potentially harmful substances.
✔️Waterproof bandages to cover any cuts or abrasions, reducing the risk of infection.
✔️Safety glasses or goggles to shield your eyes from mud particles and dust.
After your clean-up activities, be sure to shower as soon as possible to remove any remaining contaminants from your skin and clothing. Given the lack of running water in many areas, you may want to arrange your shower plans before signing up for a clean-up. It’s also a good idea to make sure you are up to date on your tetanus shot.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your safety while helping our community recover.

Join MountainTrue at the 2024 Asheville Holiday Jamboree on Nov. 23rd
2024-11-23 11:00 - 17:00 | Pack Square Park, 80 Court Plaza, Asheville, NC, 28801, United States
In light of the exhaustion of local resources and the catastrophic events of the past month+, the Asheville Holiday Parade has become the Asheville Holiday Jamboree this year. The event will take place on Saturday, November 23rd from 11 am to 5 pm in Pack Square Park.
MountainTrue will have a tent at the event, showing that we are MountainStrong and we need YOU! Let’s celebrate the resilience of our community and bring some much-needed joy to the season.
We need volunteers to take shifts dressed as Native Species, engaging with people and handing out native seed packets.
Volunteer Shifts Needed:
11 am to 1 pm
1 pm to 3 pm

When you aren’t hanging around the MountainTrue tent, make sure to catch some of the performances at the main stage.
If you want to help but aren’t sure what to wear, find some ideas Appalachian Endemics and Native Species List for 2024
**The official theme for the Jamboree is Winter Wonderland so if you want to add a snowy element to your costume, let your creativity take the “reins”!
Please reach out to amy@mountaintrue.org with any questions.

French Broad River Clean-Up: Paddling Glen Bridge to Bent Creek in Asheville, NC 12/5
2024-12-05 10:00 - 14:00 | Bent Creek River Park, 1610 Brevard Rd., Asheville, NC, 28806
Come join the French Broad Riverkeeper team in cleaning up trash and debris left behind by Hurricane Helene along the river between Glen Bridge River Park and Bent Creek River Park. This will be a boat-based paddling clean-up on a 5-mile section of class 1 river. All participants must have prior paddling experience and have proper cold-weather attire.
MountainTrue has up to 8 canoes available to borrow, but participants can bring their own boat – canoes, jon boats, and drift boats would be best (not kayaks or inflatables). This will be a paddling-only event (no option for only working the access points).
Please wear long sleeves, long pants, work boots, rubber boots and/or waders. We will have protective equipment available (gloves, glasses, masks), but feel free to bring your own as well. Volunteers are also encouraged to bring tools (loppers, saws, shovels, ladders, etc.) to help dislodge and collect garbage.
Please bring any water or food that you need. Please scroll to the bottom to register.
Volunteer Safety Reminder: Always Wear Your PPE During Cleanups!
As more volunteers participate in river clean-ups and other recovery activities, many will be coming into contact with mud, sludge, sediment, and dust left behind by the storm. These materials may contain higher levels of pollutants and contaminants, so it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself.
To work safely, we recommend using the following personal protective equipment (PPE):
✔️Rubber boots that can be easily cleaned to prevent cross-contamination.
✔️Rubber gloves to protect your hands from direct contact with contaminated materials.
✔️N95 masks (or better) to reduce inhalation of harmful dust and particles.
✔️Long sleeves to protect your arms from direct contact with potentially harmful substances.
✔️Waterproof bandages to cover any cuts or abrasions, reducing the risk of infection.
✔️Safety glasses or goggles to shield your eyes from mud particles and dust.
After your clean-up activities, be sure to shower as soon as possible to remove any remaining contaminants from your skin and clothing. Given the lack of running water in many areas, you may want to arrange your shower plans before signing up for a clean-up. It’s also a good idea to make sure you are up to date on your tetanus shot.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your safety while helping our community recover.

French Broad River Hurricane Helene Clean-up in Alexander 12/12
2024-12-12 10:00 - 13:00 | Alexander River Park, 2590 Old Marshall Highway, Alexander, NC, 28701
Come help the French Broad Riverkeeper team clean up trash and debris left behind by Hurricane Helene at Alexander River Park in Buncombe County. We will be removing garbage from within the park itself and along the riparian areas upstream and downstream of the park. Please note that this will be a land-based clean-up (no boats).
Please wear long sleeves, long pants, work boots, rubber boots and/or waders. We will have gloves and glasses available, along with plenty of trash bags, but feel free to bring your own as well. Volunteers are also encouraged to bring tools (shovels, rakes, loppers, hand-saws, etc.) to help dislodge and collect garbage, along with ample water and snacks.
Volunteer Safety Reminder: Always Wear Your PPE During Cleanups!
As more volunteers participate in river clean-ups and other recovery activities, many will be coming into contact with mud, sludge, sediment, and dust left behind by the storm. These materials may contain higher levels of pollutants and contaminants, so it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself.
To work safely, we recommend using the following personal protective equipment (PPE):
✔️Rubber boots that can be easily cleaned to prevent cross-contamination.
✔️Rubber gloves to protect your hands from direct contact with contaminated materials.
✔️N95 masks (or better) to reduce inhalation of harmful dust and particles.
✔️Long sleeves to protect your arms from direct contact with potentially harmful substances.
✔️Waterproof bandages to cover any cuts or abrasions, reducing the risk of infection.
✔️Safety glasses or goggles to shield your eyes from mud particles and dust.
After your clean-up activities, be sure to shower as soon as possible to remove any remaining contaminants from your skin and clothing. Given the lack of running water in many areas, you may want to arrange your shower plans before signing up for a clean-up. It’s also a good idea to make sure you are up to date on your tetanus shot.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your safety while helping our community recover.

Swannanoa Watershed Sample Blitz in Asheville 12/12
2024-12-12 10:30 - 15:00 | MountainTrue — Asheville, 29 North Market Street, Asheville, NC, 28801, United States
Help members of the French Broad River water team take water samples to assess Hurricane Helene’s impact. We’ll meet at the MountainTrue Asheville Office where we will give out supplies and a map before dividing up to grab samples. We’ll teach you everything you need to know, send you off to collect samples and have you drop samples back at our office to process. This event will be focused in the Swannanoa watershed.
Please wear long sleeves, long pants, work boots, rubber boots and/or waders, and bring any snacks or drinks you may need.
End time will depend on how quickly we complete our sampling.
Volunteer Safety Reminder: Always Wear Your PPE During Cleanups or Sampling!
As more volunteers participate in river clean-ups and other recovery activities, many will be coming into contact with mud, sludge, sediment, and dust left behind by the storm. These materials may contain higher levels of pollutants and contaminants, so it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself.
To work safely, we recommend using the following personal protective equipment (PPE):
✔️Rubber boots that can be easily cleaned to prevent cross-contamination.
✔️Rubber gloves to protect your hands from direct contact with contaminated materials.
✔️N95 masks (or better) to reduce inhalation of harmful dust and particles.
✔️Long sleeves to protect your arms from direct contact with potentially harmful substances.
✔️Waterproof bandages to cover any cuts or abrasions, reducing the risk of infection.
✔️Safety glasses or goggles to shield your eyes from mud particles and dust.
After your clean-up activities, be sure to shower as soon as possible to remove any remaining contaminants from your skin and clothing. Given the lack of running water in many areas, you may want to arrange your shower plans before signing up for a clean-up. It’s also a good idea to make sure you are up to date on your tetanus shot.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your safety while helping our community recover.

French Broad River Hurricane Helene Holiday Clean-up in Marshall 12/19
2024-12-19 10:00 - 13:00 | Barnard Park, 1995 Barnard Rd, Marshall, NC, 28753
Come join the French Broad Riverkeeper team as we clean up the trash left behind by Hurricane Helene at Barnard Park. We will be removing trash and debris from the park itself and along the riparian areas upstream, downstream and across the river. Please note that this will be a land-based clean-up (no boats).
Please wear long sleeves, long pants, work boots, rubber boots and/or waders. We will have gloves and glasses available, along with plenty of trash bags, but feel free to bring your own as well. Volunteers are also encouraged to bring tools (shovels, rakes, loppers, hand-saws, etc.) to help dislodge and collect garbage, along with ample water and snacks. Please dress for the weather and expect to get dirty. If you have festive holiday clothing you don’t mind getting dirty please wear it!
Volunteer Safety Reminder: Always Wear Your PPE During Cleanups!
As more volunteers participate in river clean-ups and other recovery activities, many will be coming into contact with mud, sludge, sediment, and dust left behind by the storm. These materials may contain higher levels of pollutants and contaminants, so it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself.
To work safely, we recommend using the following personal protective equipment (PPE):
✔️Rubber boots that can be easily cleaned to prevent cross-contamination.
✔️Rubber gloves to protect your hands from direct contact with contaminated materials.
✔️N95 masks (or better) to reduce inhalation of harmful dust and particles.
✔️Long sleeves to protect your arms from direct contact with potentially harmful substances.
✔️Waterproof bandages to cover any cuts or abrasions, reducing the risk of infection.
✔️Safety glasses or goggles to shield your eyes from mud particles and dust.
After your clean-up activities, be sure to shower as soon as possible to remove any remaining contaminants from your skin and clothing. Given the lack of running water in many areas, you may want to arrange your shower plans before signing up for a clean-up. It’s also a good idea to make sure you are up to date on your tetanus shot.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your safety while helping our community recover.

2025 Paddling Film Festival World Tour RAFFLE benefiting MountainTrue in Asheville, NC
2025-01-01 - 2025-03-06 | NC
2025 Paddling Film Festival Raffle featuring TWO raffle packages with a variety of outdoor swag.
Buy a raffle ticket for a chance to win!
All ticket sales benefit the work of MountainTrue. You do not need to be present at the film screening to win. Full raffle guidelines below.
HOW TO ENTER THE RAFFLE:
1. Enter online by completing this form and paying with a credit card OR (Online ticket sales cut off at 11:59 pm on March 5th, 2025)
2. Pay in person at the event on March 6th in Asheville, NC.
P.S. Want to watch the films? Join us for the Paddling Film Festival in Asheville, NC on March 6th.
