Highland Brewing in Asheville NC Adds Climbing Gym, Pizza & Outdoor Gear
If you’re dreaming about the kind of vibrant, adventure-loving lifestyle that comes with living in Hendersonville, this latest announcement from Highland Brewing in Asheville NC might just be the cherry on top—or should we say the pepperoni on the pizza?
Highland Brewing, Asheville’s original craft brewery, is expanding its already impressive East Asheville campus by adding a 45-foot climbing gym, an on-site pizza restaurant, and an outdoor gear shop in 2026. Whether you’re a seasoned local or planning to move to Hendersonville, your weekends are about to get a lot more exciting.
A New Adventure Hub Takes Shape
If you love the outdoors (and let’s be honest, who doesn’t when you’re living in the Blue Ridge Mountains?), you’ll want to keep tabs on what’s brewing—literally and figuratively—at Highland Brewing. Cultivate Climbing, a premier indoor climbing gym, will open a 20,000-square-foot rope climbing facility right beside the beer tanks and taplines. We’re talking 45-foot rock walls, 60-foot routes, two training boards, bouldering, and even a dedicated kids area.
Whether you’re a lifelong climber or new to the sport, Cultivate’s addition offers a fun and challenging environment for all skill levels. Expect to tackle dynamic “problems” on adjustable Quantum Boards and build your strength in their comprehensive training zones. Learn more about what Cultivate Climbing offers on their official website.
Black Dome Mountain Sports Moves In
Hikers, campers, and adventurers rejoice—Black Dome Mountain Sports is relocating to Highland’s campus. This local favorite retailer has outfitted Western North Carolina adventurers with everything from tents and trekking poles to high-tech outerwear since 1984. Now, it’ll be even easier to gear up for your next Pisgah National Forest trek right after grabbing a craft brew.
With their new home at Highland, Black Dome will infuse even more outdoor-loving energy into the already active brewery, just a short drive from Hendersonville. This move exemplifies the interconnected, community-focused spirit that makes this region such a great place to live.
And Yes, There Will Be Pizza
Climbing and shopping work up an appetite, and Highland Brewing has you covered by adding an in-house pizza joint. Drawing from New Haven-style inspiration, the restaurant will dish out artisan pizzas, hearty sandwiches, crisp salads, and local-friendly bites. It’s another tasty reason why spending a day—or an entire weekend—at Highland will be more enticing than ever.
Pair your slices and salad with one of Highland’s famed ales or perhaps a seasonal brew in their spacious taproom or scenic outdoor space, which already features disc golf and sand volleyball.
Why Locals and Newcomers Are Excited
This expansion reaffirms the region’s dedication to healthy living, local business support, and community connection. For those considering a move to Hendersonville, the appeal goes beyond just small-town charm. You’ll be living a short drive from creative hubs like Asheville, yet nestled in the more peaceful, picturesque surroundings of Henderson County. It’s the best of both worlds.
If you’re wondering what’s it like living in Hendersonville, this is it: breathtaking scenery, rich cultural offerings, and weekend adventures just a few miles away. Plus, developments like this one add even more value and excitement to the local area.
Plan Your Weekend—and Your Move
Set to open in 2026, Highland Brewing’s climbing gym, gear shop, and pizza restaurant promise to be one of the top things to do in and around Hendersonville. Whether you’re heading up for a day hike, family outing, or date night, it’s one more reason why life in this region is truly exceptional.
As the brewery’s president Leah Wong Ashburn said, “We blend excellent beer with new ways for guests to experience Highland while supporting local businesses.” That kind of vision is one of the many reasons people are choosing to relocate to Hendersonville and enjoy all that Western North Carolina has to offer.
Want to read the original announcement? You can find the full article on the Asheville Citizen Times.
More Reasons to Love Living Near Hendersonville
Need even more reasons to fall in love with this area? Here are just a few:
- Easy access to the Blue Ridge Parkway and Pisgah National Forest
- Farmers markets, art festivals, and superb local eats
- Fantastic schools and a welcoming community vibe
- Proximity to both outdoor adventure and cultural experiences
So, whether you’re a long-time resident or just starting to consider moving to Hendersonville, now’s the time to explore everything this growing region has to offer—including climbing walls and craft brews just up the road.