About Wilkes-Barre Climbing Gym
Indoor rock climbing serving Wilkes-Barre, Scranton, and Hazleton
Northeast PA’s oldest indoor climbing gym
Since 1999, we’ve been the training grounds and gathering place for rock climbers, new and experienced alike.
Situated in downtown Wilkes-Barre, our 6,000+ square feet of climbing includes top rope climbing, lead climbing and bouldering. Whether you want to come in for a day to try your hand at climbing, are seeking a private group rental, interested in private lessons, or rock climbing is your longtime hobby and you want a membership—we offer all kinds of pricing and access levels that will fit your needs.
Our facility boasts interesting wall angles, a huge variety of climbing hold styles, grades ranging from beginner-friendly to expert, a 2017 MoonBoard and 3 TRUBLUE iQ® auto belays so you can still get on the ropes even if you’re climbing solo. Plus we’re sure our community and staff will make your experience climbing in the Wilkes-Barre area special.
For birthday parties and group rentals, we offer a private party room (coming soon) and for those looking to work on their fitness beyond climbing, we have a small fitness room (coming 2025).
All
Ages
sq ft of climbing surface
TRUBLUE iQ® auto belays
-5–65°
wall angles, plus roof climbing
MoonBoard Masters
+
Training area + fitness equipment
Our history
Built in 1999 inside of an old dance studio, Wilkes-Barre Climbing Gym was not only one of the first indoor rock climbing gyms in Northeastern Pennsylvania, but also within the nation.
In 2024, the Wilkes-Barre Climbing Gym was taken over by Chuck and Kelsey, longtime indoor and outdoor rock climbers.
We love our community
Gym rules + indoor climbing etiquette
Gym rules
We have rules in place, because climbing is an inherently dangerous activity. While climbing at Wilkes-Barre Climbing Gym, you (and any youth whom an adult is responsible for) assume all risks associated with climbing. The padding will not prevent injury or death. Please exercise common sense and caution.
- Climb at your own risk. Do not do anything you feel uncomfortable with or that is above your risk limit.
- Everyone must check in at the front desk and have a valid waiver on file to enter the gym.
- NEVER walk underneath a climber. This could result in injury or death.
- Everyone who belays must pass a mandatory belay test.
- All minors 15 years or younger must have direct parent/guardian supervision at all times.
- Must be 15 years or older to belay without direct supervision.
- Free solo climbing is NOT permitted on any walls. If you do so, you will be asked to leave.
- No feet above the red line while bouldering.
- Belaying and belay devices require approval from our staff.
- Climbers must use a manufactured and staff-approved climbing harness and belay device while climbing or belaying.
- Anchor to ground anchors when belaying a climber heavier than you (>25 lb weight difference).
- Staff reserves the right to disallow the use of personal protective equipment.
- No speed lowering.
- Lead climbing is only allowed on designated lead wall routes.
- Lead climbers and belayers must pass a mandatory lead belay / lead climbing test.
- No running or wrestling.
- No food, beverages or sharp objects in the climbing area.
- No chewing gum allowed.
- No barefoot climbing.
- No obscene language, yelling or screaming.
- No smoking or alcohol allowed; Do not climb while intoxicated.
- Wilkes-Barre Climbing Gym and its employees are not responsible for lost or stolen property. Leave valuable items at home or locked in your car.
- Read and obey all signs posted throughout the facility.
- Obey all instructions from our staff, and report any concerns to staff.
Climbing etiquette
- Respect everyone regardless of your differences.
- Pay attention! Other climbers may be above you or waiting to climb behind you.
- Give other climbers space and only one climber per route.
- Only spot when asked and/or trained to do so.
- Avoid telling others how to climb unless asked.
- Don’t judge others based on their body type or ability.
- Remember to clean up after yourself (including brushing excess chalk from holds and wiping down any used fitness equipment).
Failure to adhere to the Rules & Etiquette can lead to the suspension of climbing and facility access privileges.
Have a question?
View our Frequently Asked Questions.
