Located just a stone’s throw from Sierra Nevada and the Asheville Regional Airport, the Riveter will join outdoor adventure and environmental sustainability with a 40,000-square-foot facility perched above a 10-acre working farm leading down to the French Broad River.
“The business is based on adventure fitness, but to me is much bigger than that – it is a place that will really give people an opportunity to find their community, build on their passion, and train to crush their outdoor adventures,” said Elizabeth Jackson, founder of the Riveter.
Slated to open next winter, the Riveter will be home to more than 16,000 square feet of climbing terrain; 18,000 square feet of progressive jump lines, drop training, and the first Velosolutions Pump Park in the country; yoga studio; spin studio; community space; libation station; retail shop; and outdoor courses including a cross-country perimeter trail around the farm.
Jackson co-owns the Riveter with business partner Eric MacLeod, MD. Both MacLeod and Jackson are avid outdoor enthusiasts with a joint passion for conservation and adventure sports.
“I’m most excited in creating a core location that brings the people of the community together with similar interests to train and develop relationships that otherwise may not happen unless by coincidence on the trail or at the crag,” MacLeod said.
David Knight, Director of the NC Outdoor Recreation Department, has been a vocal supporter to the project since its inception. “The Riveter is a perfect fit for this region and it fills a niche that is needed,” Knight said. “It will enhance the quality of life in this region in a unique and exciting way.”
The Riveter will be the first indoor bike park and climbing gym combo in the nation, adding a significant draw to the region’s already booming beverage and outdoor recreation economy.
“People want this kind of recreation opportunity,” said Knight. “The Riveter will be a great addition to WNC’s recreation opportunities and will be a big asset for the whole state of North Carolina.”
Father of two, MacLeod is a board-certified orthopedic sports medicine specialist, who has given his time as the physician for the US Ski and Snowboard teams and US Freestyle Kayak team.
“My hope is that the Riveter will improve the lives of its members through health, fitness, education, and fostering the development of similar habits in our younger generations,” said MacLeod.
Jackson drew from her diverse background to pioneer a recreational facility centered around the outdoor lifestyle and environmental responsibility. She is a graduate from Brevard College and received her Master’s in Environmental Management from Duke University.
“We aim to inspire outdoor activity for all ages and skill levels and to promote the protection of wild places by creating that connection to enjoying the outdoors,” said Jackson. “This is not just a climbing gym and this is not just a bike park. This is a community built around our mutual love for outdoor adventure.”
For more information visit www.RiveterNC.com and make sure to sign up for the Riveter newsletter to keep up with construction and grand opening details.