Ride The French Broad River Greenway: A Scenic Ride Through Asheville

Cycling the French Broad River Greenway offers a peaceful escape into Asheville’s natural beauty while staying close to the city’s vibrant heart. Stretching over 3 miles along the historic French Broad River, this paved multi-use path is perfect for a leisurely ride, family outing, or scenic commute. The greenway’s flat terrain and picturesque surroundings make it an accessible and enjoyable experience for cyclists of all levels.

Starting at Hominy Creek Park, the trail meanders through a mix of shaded woodlands and open riverside stretches, offering tranquil views of the French Broad. Along the way, you’ll pass bustling parks like Carrier Park and French Broad River Park, each with amenities like picnic areas, playgrounds, and scenic overlooks. Wildlife sightings are common here—keep an eye out for herons, turtles, and even the occasional river otter.

The greenway also serves as a cultural corridor, connecting cyclists to Asheville’s River Arts District, where you can take a detour to explore local galleries, murals, and eateries. Whether you’re pedaling for fitness, nature, or a little urban exploration, the French Broad River Greenway combines all three into one seamless ride.

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Adventure Guide: French Broad River Greenway

Trail Overview

• Length: 3 miles one-way (6 miles round-trip)
• Terrain: Paved, mostly flat with slight inclines
• Difficulty: Easy
• Location: Asheville, NC, following the French Broad River
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with spring and fall offering ideal weather

What to Expect

• Trail Features:
  • Paved paths suitable for all bike types, from road bikes to cruisers.
  • Access to parks, picnic areas, and restrooms along the route.
  • Scenic views of the French Broad River and surrounding woodlands.
• Highlights:
  • Carrier Park: A hub for outdoor activities with open fields and sports facilities.
  • French Broad River Park: Features a dog park, flower gardens, and river overlooks.
  • River Arts District: A nearby detour for art, food, and local culture.

Tips for Cyclists

• Parking: Free parking is available at Hominy Creek Park, Carrier Park, and French Broad River Park.
• What to Bring:
  • A comfortable bike and helmet.
  • Water and snacks for the ride.
  • A lock if you plan to stop and explore the River Arts District or parks.
• Safety Note: The greenway is shared with pedestrians, so maintain a safe speed and signal when passing.

Getting There

From downtown Asheville, take Patton Avenue west to the I-240 exit for Amboy Road. Hominy Creek Park, a popular starting point, is located off Hominy Creek Road. Travel time from downtown Asheville is approximately 10 minutes.

Fun Fact

The French Broad River is one of the oldest rivers in the world, estimated to be between 300 and 360 million years old. Cycling along its banks gives you a front-row seat to ancient history.