SMOKY MOUNTAIN ADVENTURE CENTER
Asheville ’ s one-stop-shop for adventure is the new Smoky Mountain Adventure Center ( SMAC ) located in the River Arts District . The adventure center offers indoor and outdoor climbing on state-of-the-art climbing walls , tubing , kayak and stand up paddleboard rentals with easy access to the beautiful French Broad River . They offer bike rentals too making it easier than ever to enjoy all that the burgeoning River Arts District has to offer , from the scenic greenways to the breweries to the art galleries . Call ahead for reservations or drop in to start your adventure today .
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Throw A Line : Rent a boat from French
Broad Outfitters that is specially designed for fishing ( we like the locally made Feelfree kayaks ) and hit the water for some fishing fun . Whether covering several miles in a day or simply heading out to a shady spot where you can drop an anchor and relax with a cold beverage while waiting on a fish to bite , you ’ re sure to have a great time while kayak fishing on the French Broad .
Bike The RAD : Take a tour of Asheville with a bike from rental from SMAC . The bikefriendly greenways and streets of the River Arts District are a great way to explore one of Asheville ’ s most unique areas and provide a great starting point for longer road rides . With hundreds of artist studioes to explore , great food and breweries , you may not feel like you need to go anywhere else . If you ’ re itching to experience some singletrack , grab a bike and head over to nearby Bent Creek Forest or try out the fun trails at nearby Richmond HIll Park .
Find Your Inner Yogi : Ready to start your day out on the right foot ? The yoga classes at Smoky Mountain Adventure Center can help you get
headed in the right direction . Say ‘ Namaste ’ to a new you and a new sense of adventure . With a variety of classes offered , you ’ re sure to find one that fits your yoga needs . From relaxation and meditation , to power and strength , these yoga classes will aid you in your discovery of self . Afterwards , enjoy a fresh juice from the juice bar while enjoying the view from the large outdoor deck overlooking the French Broad River and Carrier Park .
Try Paddleboarding : One trip down the French Broad River on a standup paddleboard makes it easy to see why this sport is quickly gaining in popularity . By combining the fun of floating downstream with the excitement of surfing , stand up paddleboarding provides a great workout while also being a fun adventure that is great for all ages . While first-time paddlers may have trouble getting the hang of balancing , the deep waters of the French Broad near SMAC provide forgiveness while learning .
Try The Climbing Walls : Asheville ’ s newest climbing gym is also the best . The worldclass facility features a 34-foot high climbing wall that is the only lead climbing wall in Asheville . Don ’ t have a belayer ? No problem . The numerous self-belay systems make it easier than ever to get in a great workout on your own time . Heights not quite your thing ? Well , you ’ re in luck because the bouldering wall at SMAC is consistently stacked with enough great problems to have you coming back for more . Once you ’ re sufficiently pumped and need a break , head upstairs to the bar where you can relax with a cold local brew or recovery drink while watching the action unfold below .
Hit The Hangout : No visit to
Asheville is complete without a sampling of some of the local breweries ’ offerings . The Hangout , an inviting bar and lounge located on the second floor of SMAC offers a great option for local beer with a nice porch overlooking the park .
Getting There : From downtown Asheville , take I-240 W to Exit 1-B ( Farmers Market , Hwy . 191 ). Turn left at the light and pass over I-240 . Turn left at the very next light ( I-240 E / I-26 W ) and stay in the right lane . Take Exit 1-C ( Amboy Rd .) and continue to 173 Amboy Road on the left .