Last Updated on April 17, 2023
Western North Carolina is an amazing place to live! From our Blue Ridge Mountains’ majesty to our fruited valley farmlands, we experience a stunning slice of Americana right here at home. Even through the winter months, many local communities stay relatively mild and outdoor sports abound. But don’t mistake—it can get quite chilly in these hills.
On days where it’s too brisk to wander far into the forest, outdoors junkies can venture indoors to get their climbing fix. Here are the top indoor rock climbing centers in and around Asheville, NC.
Cultivate Climbing
The history of Cultivate Climbing reaches back to 1993 when what was then called ClimbMax became one of the first climbing gyms on the East Coast. Since that time, this family-run business has developed into an inclusive community of climbers of all ages and skill levels. They have also opened a second location along the French Broad River. In addition to offering climbing walls, Cultivate Climbing features rock climbing programs and competitions, community events, and engaging youth programs. They even offer group events and parties. So, whether you’re an experienced climber or this is your first visit, you’ll find the support you need at Cultivate Climbing.
43 Wall Street, Asheville | (828) 252-9996
173 Amboy Road, Asheville | (828) 505-4446
Riveter
Do you get stoked by adventure fitness? The Riveter hosts a world-class climbing gym, progressive bike park, and modern yoga and fitness studios. But what they really offer is an authentic, supportive community for everyone. Their climbing gym is managed by encouraging professionals and boasts more than 16,000 square feet of climbing terrain, including a lead-only climbing cave, 68 rope lanes, boulder area with 60 routes, and a 12-foot adjustable KILTER board. Their dedicated kids climbing cove has two Geometrix climbing routes, 11 rope stations and a boulder area that tops out at the world’s coolest slide! There truly is something for every level of climber at Riveter.
701 Old Fanning Bridge Road, Mills River | (828) 676-2566 | riveternc.com
Tempie Avery Montford Center
Asheville’s Parks and Rec department organizes great outdoor activities throughout the year. Even in colder months, their programming and activities never slow down! The Tempie Avery Montford Center is located in the Historic Montford neighborhood near the Montford Park Players’ amphitheater. Inside, you’ll discover a 20-foot-tall climbing wall suitable for all ages and skill levels. Spend the cold season strengthening your muscles, improving your flexibility, and challenging your cardiovascular system! For something unique, check out the “Glow Climb” programs for youth (ages 6–10) and teens (11–14). They set up blacklights for glow-in-the-dark fun!
34 Pearson Drive, Asheville | (828) 253-3714 | ashevillenc.gov/department/parks-recreation
Brevard Rock Gym
Not technically in Asheville, Brevard Rock Gym is just a short drive for climbers ready to rock! For nearly 20 years, their goal has been to offer peak rock climbing guide services, a notable competitive climbing team, and a training ground for local Western North Carolina rock climbing. Their long list of climbing programs and services are designed to teach climbers of all ages many things about themselves—in addition to the sport’s many health benefits. And you’re sure to work with people of all skill levels who want to try something new and have fun. Check out Brevard Rock Gym, where challenging yourself is part of the process.
240-B S Broad Street, Brevard | (828) 884-7625 | brevardrockgym.com
Live the high life in Asheville, NC
With a population of 90,000+, Asheville is the largest city in both Buncombe County and Western North Carolina. Asheville serves as the area’s economic and cultural nerve center in many ways. It’s a hub for education, healthcare, local arts and crafts, entertainment, night life, and innovative food and drink. Throughout the city, Asheville’s neighborhoods are interconnected, not just by our mountains and rivers, but also by our local community centers—those intentionally created and those that have grown organically.
Does that sound like the perfect lifestyle for you? Browse Asheville NC real estate here.
