The Shadow
Prepare for an exhilarating rush like no other as Covington eagerly anticipates the grand opening of Mountain Rush, a dynamic entertainment venue poised to redefine leisure and recreation in the Alleghany Highlands. With promises of adrenaline-pumping activities and family-friendly fun, Mountain Rush is set to become a premier destination for locals and tourists alike.
Set within the expansive confines of the former Kroger building on Craig Avenue, Mountain Rush will boast over 30,000 square feet of entertainment space, offering a diverse array of attractions to cater to every taste and age group. Spearheaded by local pastor and entrepreneur Richard Mansell, and managed by Covington resident Austin Cole, Mountain Rush represents a labor of love and a visionary endeavor aimed at invigorating the local community.
“My heart’s desire and prayer to God is that this place, the Alleghany Highlands, will thrive,” Mansell expressed, underlining his profound commitment to fostering prosperity and vitality within the region. Indeed, Mansell’s vision for Mountain Rush transcends mere entertainment; it embodies a steadfast belief in the transformative power of communal engagement and economic growth.
Mansell’s decision to embark on this ambitious venture stemmed from a dual purpose: to address the pressing need for an indoor recreational space for local families and to stimulate tourism dollars, thus fortifying Covington’s economic landscape. With its multifaceted offerings, Mountain Rush aims to cater to diverse interests and demographics, ensuring a memorable experience for all who walk through its doors.
Among the highlights of Mountain Rush’s offerings is a sprawling 7,500-square-foot roller skating rink. Additionally, the venue will feature a state-of-the-art 2,500 square-foot virtual reality area, capable of accommodating up to 20 participants simultaneously, where guests can immerse themselves in immersive gaming experiences unlike any other.
For those seeking more leisurely pursuits, Mountain Rush will provide an indoor walking track, a vibrant playground, and a dedicated toddler playground, catering to the needs of families with young children. Thrill-seekers can spend time in the arcade, while dining and concession options will ensure that hunger pangs are kept at bay. Furthermore, party rooms will be available for celebrations and gatherings.
Exciting discussions are also underway to expand Mountain Rush’s offerings to include the former Halmode apparel building, with plans for an electric go-cart track and a trampoline park in the pipeline. This ambitious expansion underscores Mansell’s commitment to continuously enhancing the venue’s offerings, ensuring that Mountain Rush remains at the forefront of entertainment innovation.
With physical work on the building slated to commence in May, Mansell is actively soliciting bids from contractors, with a keen desire to collaborate with local, licensed professionals wherever possible. The estimated $2 million investment in Mountain Rush reflects Mansell’s unwavering faith in the project’s potential to yield substantial returns, both in terms of economic prosperity and community enrichment.
As Covington eagerly counts down the days to the grand opening of Mountain Rush in January 2025, anticipation is palpable, and excitement is building. With its promise of unparalleled thrills and unforgettable experiences, Mountain Rush is poised to become a beacon of excitement and vitality, propelling Covington into a new era of leisure and entertainment.
