Ten important skateboard spots in Asheville, North Carolina
1. Food Lion DIY Skatepark
- Location: Behind the Food Lion on Merrimon Avenue
- Features: Food Lion DIY is a hidden gem and one of Asheville’s most beloved local spots. Built by skaters for skaters, this park features DIY concrete elements, including ramps, banks, rails, and ledges. The community-driven nature of the spot lends it an authentic, gritty vibe that’s appealing to skateboarders looking for unique setups.
- Vibe: This park has a DIY, underground feel, attracting a local crowd and offering a space where creativity thrives. Skaters here have a strong sense of ownership over the spot, and many actively contribute to its upkeep.
2. Carrier Park Skate Spot
- Location: Carrier Park, Amboy Road
- Features: Though not a full skatepark, Carrier Park’s paved trails and small skate spot have plenty to offer. The area has smooth concrete paths, great for cruising, along with smaller elements like curbs and benches for basic tricks. This makes it ideal for beginners or skaters looking to enjoy a relaxed session.
- Vibe: With its family-friendly atmosphere and scenic views along the French Broad River, Carrier Park is a go-to for those who want a laid-back skate experience. The park is also a popular spot for picnics, so it often has a diverse crowd.
3. Aston Park Skatepark
- Location: 336 Hilliard Avenue
- Features: Known as the premier skatepark in Asheville, Aston Park is a professionally designed, full-fledged skatepark. It features an impressive 17,000 square feet of bowls, ledges, and ramps, accommodating all skill levels. The park has a range of elements, including a half-pipe, rails, stairs, and ledges, making it ideal for any skater looking to improve or showcase their skills.
- Vibe: Aston Park is a central hub for Asheville’s skateboarding community. The atmosphere is inclusive and energetic, attracting skaters from all over the region. It's also well-maintained, thanks to the city’s involvement in its upkeep.
4. RAD Skatepark
- Location: River Arts District
- Features: Situated in Asheville’s River Arts District, RAD Skatepark combines art and skateboarding. The location includes basic features like banks, rails, and ledges, set against a backdrop of murals and graffiti art that capture Asheville's creative spirit. RAD Skatepark isn’t a formal park but is popular for street-style skating and those looking to get creative with their tricks.
- Vibe: This is a spot that’s popular among both skaters and artists, often bringing the two communities together. The artsy environment gives the park a unique character, and it’s a place where skateboarders feel free to experiment and express their style.
5. French Broad River Park Trails
- Location: Riverside Drive
- Features: While not a skatepark, the smooth pathways along the French Broad River are perfect for longboarders and cruisers. The trails offer gentle inclines and beautiful riverside views, making it a relaxing and scenic place to skate. There are also benches and other small obstacles along the paths for skaters interested in a more urban experience.
- Vibe: French Broad River Park attracts a diverse group, from families to fitness enthusiasts, along with skaters. It’s a peaceful spot ideal for a mellow skate session.
6. Pack Square Plaza
- Location: Downtown Asheville
- Features: Pack Square Plaza is a historic downtown location and a popular gathering place. While not an official skate spot, the smooth pavement, stairs, and occasional ledge make it suitable for street skating. It’s a highly visible spot in the heart of Asheville, so it's often bustling with people, adding to the energy.
- Vibe: As a lively, urban environment, Pack Square Plaza is a go-to for street skaters. The downtown vibe adds an exciting backdrop, and skaters here enjoy the blend of historical architecture and modern urban space.
7. West Asheville Park
- Location: 11 Vermont Avenue North
- Features: West Asheville Park includes a range of family-oriented amenities like picnic tables and playgrounds, but it’s also known among skaters for its open areas and smooth pathways. Although not a designated skatepark, the area is suitable for flat-ground tricks, and there are several small obstacles nearby.
- Vibe: This spot has a community feel and is quieter than some of the more centralized parks. It’s popular among local skaters looking for a low-key place to practice or warm up before heading to bigger skateparks.
8. Biltmore Village
- Location: 10 Brook Street, near Biltmore Village
- Features: Biltmore Village is a charming area with brick pathways, stairs, and ledges that make it a prime spot for street-style skateboarding. The unique layout of the village offers opportunities for creative lines and tricks, though skaters should be mindful of the local businesses and pedestrian traffic.
- Vibe: This spot is more popular among street skaters who appreciate an urban setup. With its mix of historic and modern architecture, Biltmore Village offers an interesting aesthetic backdrop.
9. Hominy Creek Greenway
- Location: Near Hominy Creek Road
- Features: Hominy Creek Greenway is a 1.2-mile path along Hominy Creek, known for its natural beauty and gentle terrain. Although primarily designed for walking and biking, the pathway’s smooth surface is perfect for cruising and longboarding. There are several small hills that add a bit of fun for downhill skating.
- Vibe: The Greenway has a peaceful, natural ambiance, appealing to skaters who enjoy long, uninterrupted rides. It’s popular with outdoor enthusiasts and has a calming atmosphere that’s rare in most skate spots.
10. River Arts District Skate Trail
- Location: Throughout the River Arts District
- Features: This area of Asheville has several trails and pathways connecting studios, galleries, and cafes. Although not strictly a skatepark, the River Arts District has wide sidewalks, small stairs, and occasional rails that make it perfect for street-style skating. Skaters can explore the area while enjoying a changing backdrop of artwork.
- Vibe: The River Arts District has a laid-back, artistic atmosphere that encourages creativity. It’s a favorite spot for skaters who appreciate the blend of art and urban skateboarding, and the area’s eclectic character adds to the charm.
Skateboarding is tribal and most locals are welcoming, but if you're new to a spot, or just passing through, have respect for the locals. Listen. Be smart. Have fun.
A human being
Art can change the world – and everybody is an artist. Those who scribble stickmen. Those who paint chapel ceilings. Those who tattoo biceps. Those who are careful with pigment on canvas. Those who create fantasy characters. Those who paint pet portraits. Those who yarn bomb. Those who write poems on crappy old cardboard.
My art lives on the bottom of skateboard decks. It's designed for you to destroy. For you, the rider, my art may come second to the deck’s ability to perform – and that’s awesome. To me, art comes first. Always.
It’s how I think. It’s who I am. It’s what I am.
A machine
This article has been created with the help of artificial intelligence platforms ChatGPT and Bard. If there are inaccuracies or there are opportunities for improvement, please let me know.
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