River Access & Greenways: Living Near Carrier Park
The French Broad River forms a natural boundary between downtown Asheville and West Asheville, creating a hub for numerous outdoor activities and recreation. During the summer months, inner tube group floats are a common sight (I mean, is there anything better than a cold beer, an amazing playlist, and a chill float down the river with friends?) Residents can also easily jump in a kayak to paddle for the afternoon. Not to mention, mile after mile of greenway stretches down Lyman Street and Amboy Road (including sections of the French Broad River Greenway and the Wilma Dykeman Greenway), which run along both sides of the river—connecting the River Arts District to West Asheville and even more river adventures. This edition of the Ultimate Guide to West Asheville will delve deep into life near the French Broad River and Carrier Park.
The French Broad River
Thought to be one of the world’s older rivers, the French Broad is one of the few rivers that flows north as it courses along a 210-mile journey from Rosman, North Carolina, to Tennessee, where it ultimately merges into the Tennessee River. The 7-mile stretch of river from Hominy Creek to Pearson Bridge is one of the more popular sections for float trips – whether by self-guided trip or through a local outfitter like Zen Tubing, which launches off Brevard Road in Arden. This section is mostly gentle Class I-II water, making it a beginner-friendly activity with a dash of excitement. Looking for even more ways to experience this ancient river in the heart of West Asheville? Wai Mauna Stand Up Paddleboard tours offers stand-up-paddle-board rentals as well as guided trips—including a 4-mile trip through the colorful River Arts District and a 7-mile trip through the iconic Biltmore Estate.
Experience West Asheville Greenways
Biking, running, and even rollerblading are the most common ways to experience these greenways. If you’re interested in rollerblading or rollerskating, be sure to check out FishBrains—Asheville's first roller sports store. They offer the latest styles of skates, protective gear, and rental rollerblades and roller skates for use on Asheville's greenway trails if you want to try before you buy!
Carrier Park
Carrier Park, a centerpiece of the West Asheville lifestyle, was developed by Edwin Carrier in the 1890s. Initially, it served as a horse racing track beside the French Broad River. Over the years, the grounds have hosted everything from baseball games and bicycle races to fairgrounds and air shows for planes. It was even utilized as the Asheville Motor Speedway for almost 40 years. After 50 acres of the land from the Asheville Motor Speedway were sold to Asheville non-profit RiverLink in 1998, Asheville Parks and Recreation shifted the use of the remaining land into what stands as Carrier Park today, including the outdoor velodrome, playground, skating rink, basketball court, and volleyball courts (please note that some of these grounds are closed due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene). The 32- acre park is frequently visited by runners, skaters, and pedestrians, and it connects to the larger greenway system, including the 2.8-mile paved bicycle and pedestrian trail, the French Broad River Greenway. Fun fact: Carrier Park is the most visited park within the Asheville Parks & Recreation System!
Carrier Park and French Broad River Park are also easily accessible along the greenway. In this section of town, culture and recreational activities merge in delightful ways. For example, spots like New Belgium Brewery, Hi Wire Brewing, RAD Beer Garden, and Wedge Brewery at Foundation are all located in proximity to the river and are common gathering spots for a pint of beer after a day of fun on the water. Biking enthusiasts will especially love the annual Tour de Fat costumed bicycle parade, Summer Cycle, and Pumpkin Pedaler events at New Belgium Brewing. Other notable spots right off the river include the Marquee, Asheville's largest art market, and the Foundation Skateable Sculpture Park.