mountain moment with elizabeth jackson

Founder & General Manager at The Riveter

Avid climber and outdoor enthusiast Elizabeth Jackson has never been one to back down from a challenge. Instead, she pursues it with an “all in'' mentality. A few years ago, her skill sets and inner drive served as the perfect force to create a combination climbing gym/ mountain bike park near Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. in Mills River.

In early 2020, Jackson’s vision came to life with the opening of The Riveter. The final product included not just a climbing gym and a covered and open-air bike park, but also a yoga studio, a fitness studio, a retail shop, community work spaces, and a taproom and snack bar.

Q: The Riveter is a unique attraction for outdoor enthusiasts. If you had to describe it in two sentences, what would you say?

A: The Riveter is a place for all humans to find community and connection. The facility offers opportunities to climb, ride, practice yoga, strength train, grab a beer, and enjoy all that Western North Carolina is about.

Q: What is the significance of the name?

A: The Riveter was built to bring together the outdoor community in a safe, supportive environment, so the name fit because rivets are the strongest bolt to join two things together. As a female founder, the name is also a nod to the iconic Rosie the Riveter who symbolizes workforce equality and female empowerment. My hope is that other women will find strength in pursuing their dreams.

Q: By having all the necessary equipment available for rent, how have you shaped the experience for Hendersonville visitors?

A: Our rental options and the orientations with our awesome crew make it easy for anyone to come in and try out the activities. You can even hop off a plane and come straight here with no equipment and we will set you up for riding, climbing or yoga. It’s also great for groups because everyone can rent whatever gear is needed to join in and have a good time!

Q: Young kids seem to love the covered mountain bike pump track. Why is it popular with them?

A: The canopy area is what we dubbed the covered dirt jumps and pump track. It’s an approachable space because you see exactly what you’re getting into. You can watch other riders work through the lines, and you can start on the green line (easiest) and work your way through the harder lines with similar styles.

Q: Nobody likes to encounter rain on vacation, but it happens. What “outdoor” activities can people enjoy at The Riveter on rainy days without getting wet?

A: We have the 15,000-square-foot climbing gym for bouldering and rope climbing, as well as the “canopy” portion of the bike park, which is covered to allow riding while it’s raining.

Elizabeth's Top 5

Hendersonville recommendations:

» West First Wood-Fired is hands down the best place to eat and grab a good beer in downtown Hendersonville.

» Carl Sandburg Home – I’ve always loved visiting the home and farm, especially with my three girls.

» Ride Kanuga – if you mountain bike, definitely check it out for some of the region’s best trails. They also rent e-bikes, so you can get in all the laps!

» Conosur is my favorite place to eat in Henderson County. It's authentic and delicious, and a regular stop for me.

» Apple orchards – Sky Top and Grandad’s are both great options for U-Pick and amazing apple cider.