About .2 of a mile further, past Tom Branch Falls, is the first spot to consider starting your tubing ride. Cross the bridge and put your tubes in before or after the bridge.
This is the second half of the river, the gentler half. If you have tiny tots with you, this is probably the best area to start in.
It’s also best value. After this, the trail winds uphill. So, if you want the river, and don’t mind skipping the rapids, this is a good place to start.
Otherwise, keep going.