French Broad River Greenway West

The French Broad River Greenway offers a delightful, easy touring cycling experience along one of the world's oldest rivers. You'll glide along a smooth, paved surface, enjoying pleasant river views, shaded sections, and open grassy meadows, with the chance to see art installations in the vibrant River Arts District. This 13.0 miles (21.0 km) route, with a minimal 426 feet (130 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a relaxed ride, taking about 1 hour and 16 minutes.

Planning your visit requires a quick check of local conditions, as a section within French Broad River Park is currently closed due to storm damage, preventing a continuous loop. However, the operational sections still offer significant distances for out-and-back rides, connecting parks like Carrier Park and Hominy Creek River Park, which provide amenities and easy access. It's an ideal choice for those seeking a flat, accessible route in an area known for its challenging hilly terrain.

Beyond just cycling, the greenway area is a popular hub for various recreational activities, including kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding on the French Broad River. Its unique position as a relatively flat, easy route in Asheville makes it a local favorite, offering a blend of natural beauty, urban connectivity, and cultural touches that set it apart from other Asheville NC cycling routes.

The Greenway West – Carrier Park loop offers a delightful touring cycling experience along the French Broad River, guiding you through a mix of wooded areas and grassy meadows. You'll enjoy pleasant river views and distant glimpses of the Blue Ridge Mountains as you connect several local parks. This moderate 21.3-mile (34.2 km) route, with 760 feet (232 metres) of elevation gain, is predominantly paved and takes about 2 hours and 3 minutes, making it a rewarding ride for most cyclists.

For planning your ride, note that the route starts conveniently from the Asheville Supercharger, with additional parking available at Carrier Park. It's crucial to check local advisories before you go, as sections of the French Broad River Greenway, especially within French Broad River Park, were impacted by Hurricane Helene in 2024, and restoration efforts are ongoing. Some connections between greenway segments might also require navigating road sections without dedicated bike lanes.

This greenway loop is a fantastic way to experience Asheville's recreational offerings, linking parks like Carrier Park, French Broad River Park, and Hominy Creek River Park. Carrier Park itself is a highlight, featuring athletic facilities and the Mellowdrome cycling velodrome, though it was temporarily closed as of May 2026. The French Broad River is a hub for recreation, and you might even spot art installations in the vibrant River Arts District that the trail connects to.