That old French Broad.

Before there was the River Condos, there was the French Broad River—or more accurately—the Agiqua River as it was called by the Cherokee. It was one of only two mountain rivers broad enough for trade: a major reason for Asheville's

early economic growth. The name we know it by today is based on the fact that it was the only broad river that flowed into French colonial territory.

But its unique character is not merely a function of its history or its name, the French Broad's true character runs as deep as the solid rock it has been cutting its way into for billions of years, making it the third oldest river in the world—only the Nile river and the New River are older. In fact, it is so old that it is devoid of fossils!

Today, the French Broad River provides miles of trails, whitewater and canoeing opportunities, fishing and bird watching, and much more.