Asheville’s whitewater scene prepares for a thrilling upgrade with the arrival of Taylor’s Wave — a cutting-edge river feature designed to challenge and captivate intermediate to advanced kayakers and surfers alike. Located in the Town of Woodfin, just a short ride from Asheville, this wave harnesses natural rock and engineered concrete to create a perfectly sculpted ledge, pushing the limits of river recreation while respecting the ecological balance.

Unlike natural waves shaped by unpredictable forces, Taylor’s Wave is the product of precision engineering. The project’s lead consultant, S2o Design and Engineering, drew from their success with the Camphill Surf Park on New Zealand’s Hawea River to provide a wave that oscillates between playful surf and dynamic freestyle kayaking. The wave’s design was rigorously tested through a physical model at the Czech Technical University in Prague. Hydraulics experts confirmed that the wave delivers consistent rideability and complexity without compromising river health — fish and wildlife have safe passage through designed bypass channels, embodying a harmony between thrill-seeking paddlers and the river’s ecosystem.

Sited alongside the expanding Riverside Park and the new greenway in Woodfin, Taylor’s Wave integrates urban access with wild water. Construction kicked off in mid-2024, aligning with park improvements to offer visitors a seamless outdoor experience. While natural river flows can extend the timeline—especially with tropical storms like Helene briefly pausing progress—the project targets completion by late 2025.

Taylor’s Wave honors Taylor Hunt, a celebrated paddler who lost his life in a whitewater accident, through a legacy that celebrates community leadership and adventurous spirit. With an estimated $4.8 million investment funded by Woodfin voter bonds, the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority, and private donors, this feature aims to position the Asheville region as a premier whitewater destination.

For paddlers looking to take on Taylor’s Wave, preparation will be key. Intermediate and advanced skills will help you read the dynamic currents and master the engineered ledge, while respecting the river’s force — a fierce but fair collaborator that rewards skillful navigation. The wave invites local kayakers and visiting surfers to engage with the river’s raw energy, making every ride a fresh encounter.

In addition to paddling, visitors can enjoy Riverside Park’s amenities and the surrounding greenway trails, striking a balance between adrenaline and tranquility. As construction progresses, plan your trip to coincide with seasonal water flows for the best wave experience and be mindful of safety protocols and environmental guidelines to protect this aquatic playground. Taylor’s Wave is more than a ride — it’s a new chapter in Asheville’s outdoor adventure story.