Back in 1994, a group of local friends who were passionate paddlers, climbers, and mountain bikers decided to open Backcountry Outfitters. Realizing there was no local spot to source outdoor gear, they launched a shop that filled the gap while also offering guide services. Over time, the shop changed hands and was renamed Backcountry Outdoors, focusing mainly on camping and hiking gear.
Fast forward to 2008, the shop shifted its focus to mountain bikes and beer. Inspired by the “apres ski” atmosphere and aiming to create a spot where friends could gather after an adventure in the area, the Pisgah Tavern was created. Backcountry Outdoors relocated and became “The Hub”, allowing both to coexist under the same roof.
Today at The Hub and Pisgah Tavern, you can rent mountain bikes, get a tune-up, and stock up on any gear you need for a day in Pisgah National Forest. After hitting the trails, you can meet up with friends, enjoy some local brews on tap, and grab a bite from an ever-rotating lineup of food trucks.
Our journey doesn’t stop here. We’re dedicated to supporting local trail advocacy organizations with a focus on environmental stewardship, sustainable tourism, and Leave No Trace principles. We strive to offer education to anyone wishing to spend more time in the outdoors so that they can develop the same lifelong love of adventure that we all have.