French Broad River Park - Bridge over water.
1 / 10

French Broad River Park

4.6
·1k reviews·Asheville, United States

A vibrant riverside park featuring scenic trails, a popular dog park, and access to the French Broad River for recreation.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Loading map...
French Broad River Park - Bridge over water.

French Broad River Park

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant riverside park featuring scenic trails, a popular dog park, and access to the French Broad River for recreation.

4.6
(1k reviews)

"This park is a great place to relax or go for a picnic. Lots of shade."

Vertical photo
TIP

Bring Water & Sunscreen

Trails have limited shade; stay hydrated and protected on sunny days . :droplet: :sunwithface:

Leash Your Dog

Dogs must be leashed outside the designated dog park areas. :dog:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

French Broad River Greenway Trail

French Broad River Greenway Trail

Along the river

A scenic, flat paved trail perfect for walks, runs, and bike rides with beautiful river views.

Dog Park

Dog Park

Designated area

A spacious, fenced-in dog park with separate areas for large and small breeds, a hit with local pet owners.

River Access Points

River Access Points

Various locations

Ideal spots for launching kayaks, tubes, or paddleboards for a refreshing dip in the French Broad River.

Scenic Overlook

Scenic Overlook

Near the main entrance

Offers a picturesque vantage point to admire the river and surrounding natural beauty.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience

Beat the crowds by visiting on weekdays or during off-peak hours. Weekends, especially Saturdays, can get busy with locals and visitors enjoying the trails and dog park. Consider the weather; while sunny days are great, bring water and sunscreen as shade can be limited on the main trails.Reddit

Navigating Parking and Access

Parking can be limited, especially on busy days.Reddit Arrive early or consider alternative transportation if possible. The park is part of a larger trail system, offering multiple access points for walking, biking, and enjoying the French Broad River.Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Saturday afternoons
Why
Lively atmosphere, good for people-watching
Crowd
Medium
When
Late Spring/Early Fall
Why
Pleasant temperatures, beautiful scenery
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Come check out the local only trail river access in slc Utah it’s called Miller Bird Refuge and Nature Park :) #utahviews #utahtrails #utah #fyp #exploreutah #movetoutah #localsonly #localspots
@aislingglover
29.9K likes • 333.1K views

Bring Water & Sunscreen

Trails have limited shade; stay hydrated and protected on sunny days.Reddit :droplet: :sunwithface:

Leash Your Dog

Dogs must be leashed outside the designated dog park areas. :dog:

💚 French Broad River Greenway Part 1 EAST • Asheville, NC (River Arts District side)  This part of the greenway runs East from the River Arts District to across the river from the French Broad River Park. It’s just over 1.5 miles; a nice alternative when you don’t have the time or transportation to get to a hike out in the mountains.  I parked near the Craven Street Bridge River Access point and...
mirandaofthemountains
7 likes • 429 views
We had a blast guiding river snorkeling adventures in the upper French Broad at Champion Park! A shoutout to our amazing partners at @mtns.2.seas for bringing gear for everyone, setting up a booth, and for just being awesome, our buddy Luke- @dope_fishes for knowledge and for his mad guiding skills, and a big shout out to Jack Henderson for planning the amazing event, and the rest of the @mountain...
oxbowriversnorkeling
128 likes • 2.4K views

Check River Conditions

The French Broad can be unpredictable; be aware of currents and water quality before entering. :warning:

Explore the Greenway

Connects to other parks and New Belgium Brewery, great for biking and leisurely strolls. :bike:

#asheville is full of great places to be outside! I took a great ride along the French Broad River this morning at Carrier Park. Do you have a favorite place to ride here?
realtor_the_red
6 likes • 159 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Bring Water & Sunscreen

Trails have limited shade; stay hydrated and protected on sunny days.Reddit :droplet: :sunwithface:

Leash Your Dog

Dogs must be leashed outside the designated dog park areas. :dog:

Check River Conditions

The French Broad can be unpredictable; be aware of currents and water quality before entering. :warning:

Explore the Greenway

Connects to other parks and New Belgium Brewery, great for biking and leisurely strolls. :bike:

Hammock-Friendly

Several trees are perfect for hanging hammocks for a relaxing afternoon. :tropical_drink:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about French Broad River Park's beautiful, well-maintained green spaces and the excellent dog park. The scenic riverfront trails are perfect for walks, runs, and bike rides, offering a calming escape. While parking can be limited, the overall experience is highly positive, making it a beloved local spot for relaxation and recreation.

"Beautiful park! It's soooo green and well maintained. I see some people hung their hammocks on the trees. Great idea!! This is a great place to relax or go for a picnic. Lots of shade.

There are not a lot of parking, luckily we were able to get a spot. The restroom is right next to the parking lot, didn't have a chance to check it out to see if it's clean but looked fine from the outside.

The park is one of the stops that link to the long walk way along the river. It's a great trail, easy & flat with beautiful nature, calming environment. Highly recommend taking a walk here.

We also walked by a decent size dog park. They split it into 2 areas for large dogs and small dogs. Lots of room for your dogs to run around and play with other dogs. Looked like they were pretty happy!"

Ngan Nguyen

"So pretty! We parked here and walked to New Belgium Brewing Company and back. We walked up to the brewery, so from start to finish, it was just under 3 miles for us. Very nice and leisurely walk with other walkers and bikers, but it wasn’t overly crowded at 11:45 am on Saturday, 5/18/24. It took us an hour. Definitely recommend! We suggest wearing sunscreen and bringing water because there’s not very much shade."

Erin S.

"We love this park. Great place to relax or exercise. Also, I love to bring our dog to the dog park. My family has been going here for years. This day we went to the new labyrinth and walked it. We love uaing labyrinths as a tool for meditation. We took our dog, Betelgeuse, to the dog park, then went home. Great way to spend a Saturday."

Michael Racine

What People Like

Beautiful green spaces
Excellent dog park
Scenic river trails

What People Dislike

Limited parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

French Broad River Park is located in Asheville, NC. It's accessible by car, with parking available on-site. The park is also part of the French Broad River Greenway, making it reachable by bike from other connected trails.Instagram

While direct bus routes might vary, Asheville has a public transit system. It's advisable to check the local transit authority's schedule for routes that may get you close to the park or its connecting greenway.

Parking is available at the park, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.Reddit Arriving early is recommended. Some visitors park and walk to nearby breweries like New Belgium.Reddit

Yes, the park offers several river access points suitable for kayaking, tubing, and paddleboarding.Instagram Always check river conditions before entering.

Absolutely! The park features a well-regarded dog park with separate areas for large and small dogs, and dogs are welcome on leash throughout the rest of the park.Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, French Broad River Park is a public park and does not charge an entrance fee. Access to the park, trails, and dog park is free for all visitors.

As a public park, French Broad River Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. Specific hours may vary seasonally, so it's best to check local listings if you plan a visit outside of daylight hours.

No advance booking is required for general park entry. However, if you plan on organizing a larger event or group activity, it's wise to check with the local parks department about any necessary permits or reservations.

Standard park rules apply, including leash laws for dogs outside the designated dog park. Alcohol consumption may be restricted, and amplified music is generally not permitted. Always be mindful of other park users.

The park itself provides access points. For broader information on river conditions, safety, and regulations for the French Broad River, resources like the French Broad Riverkeeper are invaluable.Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy walking, running, and biking on the paved greenway trails, relax in shaded areas, have a picnic, visit the dog park, or access the river for water activities like kayaking and tubing.InstagramReddit+1

Yes, restrooms are typically located near the parking area. While they are generally functional, cleanliness can vary, so it's good to be prepared.Reddit

Yes, the open green spaces and paved trails are great for families. The dog park is also a hit with kids who love animals. Ensure children are supervised near the river.

Fishing is generally permitted in the French Broad River, but you'll need to check local regulations and obtain any necessary fishing licenses. Be aware of posted signs regarding fishing areas.

Expect lush green spaces, mature trees providing shade, and scenic views of the French Broad River. The park is well-maintained and offers a calming natural environment.Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The riverbanks, the greenway trail with its natural backdrop, and the scenic overlook offer great photo opportunities. Golden hour light can be particularly beautiful here.

The river itself provides dynamic shots, especially with kayakers or tubers. The dog park can also offer candid, fun moments. Look for reflections in the water.

Early morning and late afternoon (golden hours) offer the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Drone usage is subject to FAA regulations and local park rules. It's essential to check with the Asheville Parks and Recreation department for specific guidelines on drone operation within the park.

You might spot various bird species along the river, squirrels, and other small urban wildlife. Patience is key for capturing good wildlife shots.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

French Broad River Park is a great spot for families. The paved greenway trails are perfect for strollers and little ones learning to ride bikes, offering a safe and scenic environment.Instagram The open green spaces are ideal for picnics and casual play. While direct river access is available, always supervise children closely near the water due to currents.Reddit The dog park is also a major draw for families who love animals, providing entertainment for both kids and their pets.

🐶 Dog Owners

This park is a paradise for dog owners! The dedicated dog park is a standout feature, with separate areas for large and small breeds, ensuring a safe and fun environment for your furry companions to socialize and play.Reddit Dogs are also welcome on leash throughout the rest of the park, making it a perfect place for a walk along the river or a picnic with your pet. Remember to always clean up after your dog and be mindful of leash laws outside the designated dog park.

🚴 Cyclists and Runners

The French Broad River Greenway is a cyclist's and runner's dream. The smooth, paved surface provides an excellent, low-impact trail for training or leisurely rides. Its length and connectivity to other trails mean you can enjoy a substantial workout or a scenic cruise. You can easily link up with routes heading towards nearby breweries or explore further along the river.InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the French Broad River Greenway

The French Broad River Greenway is a significant feature of the park, offering a paved, accessible path that stretches for miles along the river. This trail is a favorite for walking, jogging, and cycling, providing a safe and scenic route away from road traffic.Instagram It connects French Broad River Park to other local amenities, including breweries like New Belgium Brewing Company, making it a popular choice for a leisurely outing or a longer fitness excursion.Reddit The relatively flat terrain makes it suitable for all fitness levels, and the constant presence of the river adds a calming ambiance to any activity.

Many visitors appreciate the greenway for its connectivity and ease of use. It's a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of the area without venturing far into the mountains. The trail is well-maintained, and while it can get busy on weekends, it rarely feels overwhelmingly crowded, especially if you visit during off-peak hours.Reddit The greenway also serves as a crucial link in Asheville's expanding network of recreational pathways, promoting active lifestyles and providing access to the river for various water-based activities.

River Activities and Safety

The French Broad River itself is a major draw, and French Broad River Park offers convenient access points for water activities such as kayaking, tubing, and paddleboarding.Instagram These spots are popular for both locals and visitors looking to cool off and enjoy the river's flow. It's important to note that the French Broad River can be unpredictable, with varying currents and water levels depending on recent weather. Visitors are strongly advised to check current river conditions and safety advisories before launching any watercraft or entering the water.Reddit

Local advice often emphasizes caution, especially for those unfamiliar with the river. Having the right gear, understanding the river's temperament, and avoiding areas with exposed breaks in your skin are key safety considerations.Reddit Organizations like the French Broad Riverkeeper work to monitor and protect the river, and their resources can be invaluable for understanding the river's health and safe usage practices.Instagram For those seeking guided experiences, local outfitters can provide equipment and expertise for a safer adventure on the water.

The Beloved Dog Park

French Broad River Park boasts a highly-rated dog park that is a significant attraction for pet owners in Asheville. The park is thoughtfully designed with separate, fenced-in areas for large and small dogs, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable experience for all canine visitors. This separation helps prevent accidental injuries and allows dogs to play comfortably with others of similar size and energy levels.Reddit The ample space within each section provides plenty of room for dogs to run, play fetch, and socialize with other furry friends.

Reviewers consistently praise the dog park for its cleanliness and the happy demeanor of the dogs that frequent it. It's a social hub for both pets and their owners, fostering a sense of community among local dog lovers. Whether your dog is a social butterfly or just needs a safe place to burn off energy, the dog park at French Broad River Park is a fantastic amenity that adds significant value to the overall park experience.Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2