Introduction
Located just minutes from downtown Asheville, Carrier Park is one of the city’s most versatile and well-loved public spaces. With its wide range of amenities, beautiful riverfront location, and strong community presence, Carrier Park plays a vital role in promoting outdoor recreation, health, and connection for residents and visitors alike.
Whether you enjoy walking, biking, playing sports, having a picnic, or simply relaxing in the fresh air, Carrier Park offers something for everyone. As one of the largest parks in the city’s system, it continues to evolve with improvements that support Asheville’s vision for sustainable, accessible public green spaces.
A Brief History
Carrier Park was once home to a motor speedway known as the Asheville-Weaverville Speedway. After the site was repurposed into a public park in the early 2000s, the city began transforming the area into what it is today: a dynamic recreational space with a focus on community use.
The park’s name honors the Carrier family, who contributed land and support for the park’s creation. Since its opening, it has become a favorite destination for families, fitness enthusiasts, and nature lovers.
Location and Accessibility
Carrier Park is located at 220 Amboy Road, along the French Broad River, just west of downtown Asheville. The park is easily accessible by car, bike, and public transportation.
It connects directly to the French Broad River Greenway, making it a central stop for those exploring Asheville’s larger greenway network. The park is open from dawn until dusk and is free to the public.
Key Features of Carrier Park
1. Velodrome (Outdoor Track)
One of the park’s most unique features is its repurposed velodrome—the former speedway oval, now used for walking, jogging, biking, and rollerblading. The smooth, circular track provides a safe and flat surface for all ages and abilities to enjoy exercise.
2. Multi-Sport Courts and Fields
Carrier Park includes:
- Basketball courts
- Roller hockey rink
- Volleyball courts
- Multi-use fields for soccer, football, and ultimate frisbee
These facilities are open to the public and regularly used for local leagues and pick-up games.
3. Playgrounds and Picnic Areas
Families love Carrier Park for its shaded playground, covered picnic shelters, and open green spaces perfect for gatherings, birthday parties, or casual relaxation. The picnic areas can be reserved through Asheville Parks & Recreation for group events.
4. Greenways and Trails
The park is a central hub for the French Broad River Greenway, offering paved trails for walking, biking, and running. The greenway connects Carrier Park to Hominy Creek Park and French Broad River Park, forming a scenic route along the river.
5. River Access and Natural Beauty
Carrier Park’s riverfront location makes it a peaceful spot for nature watching, photography, or simply enjoying the views. There are benches and grassy areas along the river where visitors can sit and take in the natural surroundings.
Community Events and Programs
Carrier Park is not just a place for recreation — it’s also a community gathering space. The park often hosts:
- Outdoor fitness classes
- Local festivals and fairs
- Youth sports programs
- Environmental education workshops
These events bring people together and help strengthen Asheville’s sense of community.
Recent Improvements
As part of Asheville’s continued investment in its parks, Carrier Park has received several upgrades in recent years:
- Improved accessibility features like ADA-compliant ramps and paths
- Enhanced lighting and security for safety
- New signage and wayfinding markers
- Landscaping updates to support pollinators and native plants
These improvements reflect the city’s commitment to making Carrier Park safe, inclusive, and environmentally friendly for everyone.
A Model for Urban Parks
Carrier Park is a great example of how cities can transform underused or outdated properties into vibrant, multi-purpose public spaces. By combining recreation, nature, and community features in one location, the park serves a broad range of needs and sets a high standard for urban green space design.
Its success also highlights the value of sustainability and adaptability in park planning. Features like greenways, native landscaping, and energy-efficient facilities ensure that the park meets both current and future community goals.
Visiting Tips
If you plan to visit Carrier Park:
- Bring your own gear (balls, skates, etc.) for sports
- Check the Asheville Parks website for shelter reservations or event updates
- Pack water and sunscreen, especially in summer months
- Follow posted park rules, including leash laws for pets
- Respect shared spaces, especially during busy hours
Conclusion
From its rich history to its modern features, Carrier Park continues to be one of Asheville’s most active and inclusive public parks. Whether you’re looking for a morning run, a family picnic, or a place to connect with nature, this park has it all.
With its blend of recreation, accessibility, and scenic beauty, Carrier Park is not just a local gem — it’s a model for how cities can invest in their communities through thoughtful park design and ongoing improvements.
