Get to Know Your Asheville Greenways
This week, we want to introduce you to all the great greenways the city of Asheville has to offer. A greenway is a strip of undeveloped land near an urban area, set aside for recreational use or environmental protection. There are currently about 11 miles of greenway in Buncombe County, of the 102 miles of greenways planned to connect from Weaverville to Fletcher and Enka to Black Mountain.
The following are some of our favorite places to get away from the hustle and bustle of downtown and leisurely navigate your way through nature by walking, running or biking.
Hominy Creek Greenway
Click here for map/directions
Connects Carrier Park to Hominy Creek River Park, quiet & mostly shaded path with river views almost the entire way which is great for both bikers and runners. Hominy Creek River Park is a great place to start if you’re doing a half-day tubing trip up the French Broad, but the greenway alone is enough reason to visit. The master plan is for this greenway to one day continue on to the Bent Creek area!
French Broad River Greenway
Click here for map/directions
French Broad River Park was the first greenway developed in Buncombe County in 1988. It follows along the river between French Broad River Park and RiverLink’s future Karen Kragnolon Park. This is a popular path along the river frequented by bikers, runners families, dogs and neighborhood strollers. Enjoy big beautiful trees that are great for climbing or for hanging out in your hammock.
Things to do include indoor rock climbing at the Smoky Mountain Adventure Center or grabbing a bite to eat at Homegrown West. There is also a dog park with spaces for small dogs and bigger dogs so your furry friends can frolic in the fresh air! The newest section of this greenway borders the river by New Belgium Brewery. There is an unofficial dirt path between New Belgium and the French Broad River Park which is planned to either become a finished gravel or paved path in the future.
Reed Creek Greenway
Click here for map/directions
Just minutes from the heart of downtown, this peaceful, well manicured paved path follows Reed’s Creek. There are lots of nice places to let the dog or kids explore.
Glen’s Creek Greenway
Click here for map/directions
This greenway follows the path of W.T. Weaver Blvd and the edge of the UNCA campus. We recommend stopping at the Asheville Botanical Gardens! Admission is free and its a great place to stop for a picnic, take pictures or splash in the shallow creek.
Coming Soon! “RADTIP” Greenway
This will connect the entire length of the River Arts area along the river, from Craven Street to Amboy Road.
Wondering what you can do to make our greenways vision a reality?
Become a Friend of Connect Buncombe!
10 Safety & Guidelines for Asheville Greenway Use:
- Keep Right, Pass on the Left: Please help us make the trail a friendly environment for all trail users by not blocking the path or wandering into oncoming trail lanes. All trail users should respect other users on the facility regardless of their mode, speed or level of skill. Walk and bike on the right side of the trail to facilitate two-way traffic and using caution when passing other trail users. Pass others going in your direction on their left. Look ahead and back to make sure the lane is clear before you pull out. Pass with ample separation. Do not move back to the right until safely past.
- Remember Safety First: Pedestrians always have the right of way. Faster moving trail users, such as bicyclists, rollerbladers, and skateboarders should yield to walkers and joggers at all times. When the trail is busy, ride single file.Because paths may be unlighted and somewhat secluded, it’s good to consider only using them in daylight hours and/or traveling with a companion.
- Always Communicate: Give a clear, audible warning signal before passing. Signal may be produced by voice, bell, or horn. A bicyclist should politely yell, “On your left” before passing to alert those in front of them. Be aware that other people may want to pass you. Listen for others- Headphones may impair your ability to hear and react to potentially dangerous situations.
- Maintain a Safe Speed: Keep Moving- Do not congregate or remain idle. Please slow down when rounding curves, passing other trail users, traveling downhill, where the trail narrows, approaching intersections or when conditions dictate. Bicyclists will typically be the fastest traffic on a trail. If your speed endangers other trail users, check for alternative routes or consider riding on the road. Selecting the appropriate location for your ride is safer and more enjoyable for all concerned.
- Use Caution: Please slow and stop at all street crossings and use caution when proceeding into the intersection, even when using a marked crosswalk.Provide plenty of room to allow faster trail users to pass.
- Protect Your Pets: Dogs are welcome on the trail, but please keep them on a short leash, a max of three feet, in order to keep the trail safe for all users. Additionally, please pick-up after your pet. Waste Bags are provided along the trail for waste removal, please deposit full bags in trash receptacles.
- Respect Your Surroundings: Do not disturb the wildlife or the many native plants and wildflowers that grow along the Greenways. Please stay on the designated trail, paved and marked trail at all times, especially in areas of private property.
- Be Prepared: Dress and plan for the weather and time of day. Wear appropriate safety equipment, especially a helmet when on any public road, lane, or greenway. Utilize your bike lights when riding at night. Consider wearing bright colors or reflective gear.
- Mobilize, Not Motorize: Motorized vehicles are not allowed on the greenway at any time. However, please note that in order to maintain the trail you may occasionally encounter maintenance vehicles and lawn mowers on and alongside the trail.
- Report Emergencies: In an Emergency, Call 911. Report non-emergency concerns to Buncombe County Parks & Recreation: (828) 250-4260 or parks@buncombecounty.org
More resources:
Click here for a map of the Current Greenways
Buncombe Greenways Master Plan
Connect Buncombe Upcoming Projects