4.5
Hello and welcome to the Seattle Gym Expansion! We are extremely excited to open the best bouldering terrain in the Seattle area. Please come and try it for yourself.
Here are some FAQs to help you get started!
Call the gym at (206) 283-4497, or email seattle@verticalworld.com with further questions.
FAQs
Are you open?
Yes! The Bouldering area is now open, and the Youth Climbing Center will open as soon as possible.
Where is the entrance? Where do I go?
Look for the giant warehouse with VW signage directly across the street from the current location. The entrance to the bouldering gym is located in between Commodore and Jameson on 24th Ave W. The address is 2421 W Commodore Way Unit B1-B, Seattle, WA 98199
Is there parking?
There is street parking as usual, and we also have access to the stalls in the parking lot across from the new space. No overnight parking please!
What is the gym like?
The bouldering expansion boasts over 11,000 square feet of climbing terrain, which includes nearly 200 boulder problems on meticulously designed climbing walls. With walls of all angles, as well as a 40 foot ramp wall, we are confident there is terrain and climbing styles to satisfy everyone’s bouldering dreams. Not only is there great climbing, but there is also fantastic common spaces available. 10 privacy stall restrooms, 2 showers, a conference room, and lots of open space for non-climbing socializing. Not to mention an entire facility dedicated to youth climbing. Stay tuned for updates on that space opening for fall program registration.
Why build this expansion?
We had three distinct challenges at our current Seattle location since opening in 2010.
- Not nearly enough bouldering terrain
- With bouldering booming in popularity, we have always dreamt of offering the bouldering terrain our Seattle members deserved. With limited space in the current location, it was not feasible – but not anymore.
- Kids – everywhere
- We love our youth programs and competitive team. We believe they are super positive for the community and are essential for the growth of climbing and positive stewardship. However, we are very aware of their impact on members, which is why we are opening possibly the largest youth only climbing facility in the country. With one of the most successful competitive teams in the Nation, and extreme demand in our standard youth programs, we will be freeing up space for members in both primary locations and will better serve our youth communities and families. We are particularly excited about this for all stakeholders.
- The gym was generally too busy
- Although the gym was considered quite large in 2010, we outgrew the space quite fast. With more terrain that is not used by youth programs, and more member-facing climbing in general, we aim to address overcrowding issues.
Is the entire gym finished?
Not quite, but the most important part is, the climbing!
What areas are still being built?
The following spaces are planned and currently under development:
- Spray Wall (Wall finished just need to set)
- Hangboard & Climbing Training Area
- Weight & Strength Training Area
- Some Cubbies, benches, and other environmental amenities
- Youth Climbing Center entrance area and groups/party climbing wall
We’ll share updates as each area is completed!
Will my membership include access to the new space?
Absolutely! All Access Memberships get immediate access the new bouldering space. While the new Youth Climbing Center is dedicated to our Competitive Team and Youth Programs, we are exploring ways in which Members can have access. We have to see how programs and team operate in the space, then we will assess other access.
Are prices changing?
Nope. Prices are the same for all locations.
I have an Uplift Only Membership, can I try out the gym?
Check your inbox! 😊. If you are a current Uplift Only Member, we sent out an email with an offer to try the new space.
How will this affect routesetting?
With more terrain comes more setters! We continue to train and hire setters for the expanded terrain, and we will maintain regular setting schedules in both buildings while maintaining our high standards in routesetting.
What climbing levels do you cater to?
Our goal is to provide grade ranges for everyone—from first-time climbers to seasoned veterans. With such diverse climbing terrain and hold selection, we have something for everyone. Keep an eye out for the announcement of the “The Welcome Circuit” too.
Will you offer classes and events?
Yes! As the gym grows, we’ll introduce clinics, technique classes, competitions, community events, and more.
How can I stay updated?
Follow us on social media, subscribe to our newsletter, or ask our staff during your visit. We’ll regularly share construction updates, new features, new sets, and upcoming events.
Can I make suggestions?
Definitely! We want this gym to reflect our community. We welcome feedback on routes, events, training equipment, classes, and future improvements. Please write a comment card or email seattle@verticalworld.com with your suggestions.
Thanks for being part of our journey!
This gym is more than just a climbing facility—we are super excited to offer this space to Seattle climbers, and we can’t wait to see you there.