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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
French Broad River Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant riverside park featuring scenic trails, a popular dog park, and access to the French Broad River for recreation.
"This park is a great place to relax or go for a picnic. Lots of shade."
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:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Scenic Overlook
Near the main entrance
Offers a picturesque vantage point to admire the river and surrounding natural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Navigating Parking and Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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:
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:
Tips
from all over the internet
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:
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
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
Arriving early is recommended. Some visitors park and walk to nearby breweries like New Belgium.Yes, the park offers several river access points suitable for kayaking, tubing, and paddleboarding.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
🎫 🏞️ 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.
Yes, restrooms are typically located near the parking area. While they are generally functional, cleanliness can vary, so it's good to be prepared.
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.
📸 📸 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
🐶 Dog Owners
🚴 Cyclists and Runners
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the French Broad River Greenway
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. 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
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. 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. For those seeking guided experiences, local outfitters can provide equipment and expertise for a safer adventure on the water.
The Beloved Dog Park
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit