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The French Broad River, along with its tributaries, is an ecological lifeline pulsing through our region. This year for Father’s Day, why not give dear ol’ dad what he needs to tap into that resource and have a great afternoon.
Is your dad the type who prefers the quiet of local rocky streams for early morning trout fishing? Is he a thrill-seeker, riding the whitewater in a custom kayak or touring waterways on a solid paddle board?
? Or would he rather band with friends and family for an intense mountain hike, floating down the river afterwards to cool off and enjoy a local brew?
However dad prefers to enjoy the river, he’ll need the right gear. Here are 7 locally-owned outdoor gear stores that have what dad needs.
Black Dome Mountain Sports
Asheville’s original full-service outdoor outfitter, Black Dome carries all the major brands, plus gear from smaller brands and local suppliers. Their CONSPIRACY bar is a great place to watch action films while enjoying a pint and popcorn.
140 Tunnel Road, Asheville | (828) 251-2001
Diamond Brand Outdoors
Opened in 1964, Diamond Brand is WNC’s first outdoor gear shop. What began as a factory seconds warehouse has grown to a Top 100 outdoor specialty retailer with two locations dedicated to quality brands and high service.
Parkway Center: 1378 Hendersonville Road, Asheville | (828) 684-6262
Downtown Asheville: 53 Biltmore Avenue, Asheville | (828) 771-4761
French Broad Outfitters
Located right on the French Broad River, French Broad Outfitters is Asheville’s largest and only full-service, locally-owned paddle shop. They also offer full camping gear rentals, the city’s largest selection of disc golf supplies, and host a variety of river trips.
704 Riverside Drive, Asheville | (828) 505-7371
Frugal Backpacker
Frugal Backpacker utilizes decades-old relationships to get samples and first-run gear at unbelievable prices—and pass on that savings to you! Their experts help offer tips and advice to help you find the gear that you really need.
52 Westgate Parkway, Asheville | (828) 209-1530
Hunter Banks Fly Fishing
Learn, fish, and shop at Hunter Banks. In addition to offering apparel, tackle, gear storage, and accessories, their two locations offer a variety of classes and guided trips. Whether you’re a fly fishing novice or a pro who’s picky about his gear, they have exactly what you need.
29 Montford Avenue, Asheville | (828) 252-3005
Mast General Store
“From cradles to caskets,” the original Mast General Store opened in 1883 to serve a wide variety of community needs. Now with nine locations in three states, they offer outdoor gear, clothing, home items and accessories, food, toys, and iconic barrels of classic candies.
15 Biltmore Avenue, Asheville | (828) 232-1883
Second Gear
Second Gear is Asheville’s answer for affordable outdoor gear and clothing. In addition to offering used gear and dealer samples, the store also carries a selection of new items, including guidebooks and maps.
444 Haywood Road, Asheville | (828) 258-0757
