What to expect on your first visit
to Wilkes-Barre Indoor Rock Climbing Gym
Whether you want to try climbing as a weekend activity or are considering it as a new hobby, follow these steps to get the most out of your climbing experience at the Wilkes-Barre Climbing Gym.
Step 1. Fill out a waiver.
Save time at check-in by filling out a waiver for each participant and spectator in your party.
Step 2. Review this page.
Read through our rules and frequently asked questions below so you’re prepared for your visit.
Step 3. Come on in!
You don’t need a reservation to climb and you can always fill out your documents at the front desk.
IMPORTANT!
All minors must have a waiver on file signed by their PARENT or LEGAL GUARDIAN. If the parent will not be accompanying the child, they will need to fill out the waiver online and email a photo of their ID to climb@wilkesbarreclimbinggym.com
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Entrance on Livingston Lane
- 570-824-7633
- climb@wilkesbarreclimbinggym.com
- Parking info »
- Hours
Tuesday-Friday 4pm-10pm
Saturday 12pm-10pm
Sunday 12pm-6pm
Private group or 1:1 rentals available
For first visits, we recommend starting with these packages:
Day pass
$18 per participant
The day pass includes unlimited climbing for 1 day at our gym. This works well for those who have their own gear.
Day pass + rental bundle
$25 per participant
Our most popular package for new climbers! This includes unlimited climbing for 1 day and discounted rental rates on all the gear you need to get started.
Private session
$50 per participant
Up to 2 people
For those who want a little extra support before climbing, you can book a private session while the gym is closed to learn the basics and try it without any added stressors.
Frequently asked questions
Click the tabs below to jump to a FAQ category:
Getting there, waivers + check-in
Do I need to be a member to climb?
Nope! You do not need a membership to climb with us and we welcome folks of all ages and abilities!
What happens when I/we arrive?
You’ll meet one of our staff members at the front desk where they will create an account for you, check your waiver is completed, offer any rental gear, and provide more info on climbing at our facility.
This whole process might take 5-15 minutes depending on how busy we are and if you’ve filled out our waiver in advance.
Should I arrive early to get checked-in?
A day pass allows you to climb for the full day during our open hours. Check-in might take 5-15 minutes for new participants, so account for that extra time if you’re on a tight schedule.
Where should I park?
There are a few options for parking near us.
Street Parking
You can park on the street in the front or back of our building. The street is metered parking at $1/hour and it’s enforced Monday through Saturday 8am-6pm. You can pay with coins or we recommend the Pango parking app to pay using PayPal, Venmo, or a card.
Parking Lots
There is the Midtown private parking lot on Northampton street right next to our main entrance (between us and Movies 14). It costs $1.50/hour and only accepts credit cards.
You can find other parking lots and garages nearby here.
Biking
If you’re up for a multi-sport adventure day, there are bike racks near our entrance to lock up your bike.
Where are you located and how do I find you?
We’re located 1-block from Wilkes-Barre’s downtown square visible from Movies 14.
Our address is Main Street, but our main entrance is on Livingston Lane, which is a small one-way road parallel to Main Street.
From 309-S: Take exit 2 to Wilkes-Barre/Center City. Merge right onto Wilkes-Barre Boulevard. Turn right on Northampton street. From here you can turn left into Livingston Lane for street parking, park in the commercial parking lot just before Livingston Lane, or continue and turn left onto Main Street for additional street parking.
From 309-N: Take exit 2 to Wilkes-Barre/Center City. Turn left onto Wilkes-Barre Boulevard. Turn right on Northampton street. From here you can turn left into Livingston Lane for street parking, park in the commercial parking lot just before Livingston Lane, or continue and turn left onto Main Street for additional street parking.
From Wilkes-Barre public square: Take the exit off the square for South Main Street (at the Dunkin). At the next light, you can either find street parking on Main Street or turn left at the light and make an immediate right into Livingston Lane for additional street parking.
Can I just come in or do I need to make a reservation online first?
You’re welcome to come in anytime. You do not need a membership to climb with us and we welcome folks of all ages and abilities!
To save time at check-in, we do recommend filling out your waiver in advance online at this link.
I have a group of 8+ people who want to go climbing. Do I need to book something in advance?
Yes. If you do not have a reservation we may not be able to accommodate your group. To guarantee we can accommodate a large group (8+ people), we ask that you coordinate with us in advance. To do so, please call 570-824-7633 between the hours of 4pm-10pm Tues-Sat or email us anytime at climb@wilkesbarreclimbinggym.com.
Booking in advance will ensure we have the appropriate amount of staff working and will reward you with a special discounted rate per person.
Is a waiver required for all visitors?
Yes. All climbers, belayers, and spectators are required to have a waiver.
Do I need to fill out the waiver online?
Filling out the waiver online can help you save time during check-in, but you’re welcome to fill out your waiver at our front desk too. We have a computer station, paper versions, or a QR code you can scan with your phone upon arrival.
Do I need to make an account and sign a waiver if I'm not climbing?
Our policy requires anyone who might step foot on the mats and padding to have a waiver on file. So even if you are not climbing, but plan to belay, supervise, or watch a climber, you will need a waiver.
I’m belay and lead certified at a different gym. Do I need to take a belay test?
Yes, we do require you to take a test to become belay or lead certified at Wilkes-Barre Climbing Gym. This test has no additional charge.
General FAQ
Do I have to wear climbing shoes?
We wholeheartedly recommend and prefer you wear climbing shoes in our gym. They’re specially designed to help you grip the wall and feel your foot movement better. If you don’t have your own gear, rental shoes are available. (While they are sanitized after each use, some people bring a thin pair of socks to wear with them.)
Are there any weight restrictions?
Our equipment has certain ratings and requirements. Most standard harnesses will support up to 310 lbs. Our TRUBLUE auto belays accommodate weights from 22.5 lbs to 310 lbs. For young children, we do have child harness additions available for a safer belay–just ask the front desk staff.
If you are unsure if you meet the weight requirements, you are always welcome to boulder at our facility. There are no weight limitations on bouldering.
Is it safe?
While indoor climbing gyms have a lot of policies in place to make the experience as safe as possible, climbing is inherently dangerous.
We have a number of rules and expectations that help us all work together to create a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone.
Do you offer classes or private instruction for adults?
We strongly encourage all climbers to show up, speak with a gym employee, and try us out. We think you’ll find the community welcoming and helpful.
If you are feeling intimidated or nervous, we do offer private sessions when the gym is closed. You can come by yourself or have a friend join you for $50/participant.
If you’re interested in lead climbing, we also offer a two-part lead climbing and lead belaying class.
What are auto belays?
Auto belays are perfect for newcomers or experienced climbers alike! They work using a patented magnetic braking system that delivers a soft catch and smooth descent for kids and adults. These belay devices allow climbers to climb a tall wall without a second person needing to belay. Our TRUBLUE auto belays accommodate weights from 22.5 lbs up to 310 lbs.
What is belaying?
Belaying is a technique in rock climbing, where one person (known as the belayer) uses a rope system to protect another person (the climber) from falling.
What’s the difference between top rope, bouldering and lead climbing?
Bouldering is climbing without ropes. In our gym, it does not exceed 13’ of height from the ground. It is the simplest form of rock climbing, since it can be done alone and it does not require belaying, ropes, or a belay device.
Top rope climbing is a method of climbing where the climber is securely attached to a rope, which is anchored at the top of a route. One would climb using an auto-belay or a belayer to catch their falls.
Lead climbing or sport climbing is a more advanced method of climbing, where a climber would bring their rope with them from the ground up, securing themselves to fixed anchors along the way. This method requires a second person (the belayer).
First visit questions
This is my first time… Do I need experience to climb?
Not at all. We love showing first timers the joy of climbing! During your check in and orientation we will go over everything you need to know and provide you with any assistance needed in getting started.
What should I wear?
We suggest wearing something you can stretch and move easily in. Consider what you might wear to any other sporting activity or gym–leggings, sweatpants, t-shirts, athletic tops, etc.
One more tip: We also suggest layering. You might find yourself sweating while climbing and then getting a chill while you’re taking a break.
Do I need to bring anything special?
Ultimately all you need is yourself and good vibes!
While not required, when heading to the climbing gym, we usually recommend a water bottle, a snack, and comfy clothes.
Do I need a partner to climb?
Nope. Climbing can be done solo or with a friend. If you’re alone, you can boulder or use the auto belays. If you want to make friends, we believe the climbing gym is a great place to do it!
I’m afraid of heights! Is climbing something worth trying?
Yes! Absolutely. A lot of climbers are afraid of heights. You can start with bouldering and if you’re brave enough to get on our ropes, remember that you do not need to go to the top in order to have a good workout or fun time.
I’m not strong… Will that make climbing difficult?
No. We have routes designed for brand new climbers to more advanced climbers so everyone can have a good time regardless of their strength levels.
Plus, there are a lot of skills that make up climbing and strength is only one of them. You can use balance and flexibility to your advantage.
Questions on rates + membership
How do I become a member?
We offer prepaid 1-month, 3-month, 6-month and annual memberships. View all available plans here. We also offer a discounted month-to-month recurring membership that will automatically be deducted from a card or ACH.
You can sign up for the recurring membership online. For all other memberships, please visit our front desk.
If after your first visit you decide you want a membership, we will deduct the cost of your day pass.*
*Offer applies to Day Pass only (maximum discount of $25). To receive the discount, talk to our desk staff. Must be requested day of Day Pass Purchase.
How can I cancel or freeze my membership?
If you’re on a prepaid membership, refunds are not available. Your membership will run out after 30 days from your sign up date. (Freezes do not apply for this type of membership.)
If you’re on our month-to-month recurring membership, you can cancel at the front desk or online in your Member Portal.
Memberships can be canceled anytime prior to the next renewal date of your membership. Cancellation will be effective next monthly payment period. We do not offer pro rata cancellations.
To freeze a recurring membership, it costs $5 per month. This will help you maintain the discounts offered with a recurring payment and avoid any future reinstatement fees.
How much does it cost?
What’s included with a day pass?
A day pass allows you to climb at our facility from the time you purchase the day pass until closing time.
When purchasing, you will have the option to bundle your day pass with equipment rentals for an additional $7.
View all of our rates here.
If after your first visit you decide you want a membership, we will deduct the cost of your day pass.*
*Offer applies to Day Pass only (maximum discount of $25). To receive the discount, talk to our desk staff. Must be requested day of Day Pass Purchase.
What’s included in a membership?
Our membership includes:
- Unlimited access to our climbing facility during our business hours
- Unlimited free guest passes for first-time visitors (1 guest/day/member)
- One free guest pass for a friend or family member per month (First Friday only)
- Free gear rentals (shoes, harness, chalk)
- 10% off most retail and concessions
- Discounts on certain classes
View all of our Membership Plans here.
Can I bring someone as a guest if I’m a member?
We have two types of guest passes available to all of our members.
- You can bring a first-time visitor to our gym at any point in time and they will climb free. (1 guest/day/member)
- Our members also get a First Friday pass, which can be used for one visitor to climb free, new or returning on the First Friday of every month.
Do you sell gift cards?
Yes we do! You can purchase e-gift cards online here or you can stop by our front desk during business hours to get a physical gift card.
I don’t have my own equipment. Do you provide or rent shoes, chalk and harnesses?
Yep, we provide rentals for shoes, harnesses, and belay devices.
We offer chalk for free, just ask!
Is there a student discount?
Is there a military discount?
Is there a senior (65+) discount?
Is there a public service discount?
Facility questions
How often do you change routes?
What grades does your gym have and in what style of climbing?
Our gym grades typically range from V0 to the occasional V9 and 5.6 through 5.12.
What equipment is available to train for climbing?
What’s in the fitness room?
More details on our fitness room are coming soon (we’re aiming for early 2025!)
Do you give tours or can I come look around on my own?
Anyone is welcome for a tour, just ask at the front desk.
Please know you will be asked to sign a waiver before entering the padded areas, even if you aren’t planning to climb.
Why is there tape all over the wall?
We use tape as a way to mark a route on the wall.
For example, pink tape will be placed next to each hold on a route. To complete that route, you would only use the pink-taped holds.
Two-pieces of tape together mark the start and end of each route.
We prefer this method, because it allows us to use a larger variety of holds, fit more climbs onto our walls, keep our routesetting creative, and also benefits the climber in understanding and practicing route finding.
Do you have lockers or a place to put my stuff?
We have several cubbies in our main lobby where you can store your stuff. Please note, we are not responsible for lost or stolen belongings.
If you would prefer to lock your stuff up, we do have a few lockers available upstairs, but you must bring your own lock.
Do you have air conditioning?
We do! Although we are cooling a very large building, it’s often not as cool as you’d expect in the summertime heat. In the summertime, we recommend dressing appropriately for warm temperatures and bringing a cold drink to help you stay cool.
Questions on youth climbing
My kid wants to try climbing. What are my options?
If you know your child gravitates to climbing naturally, we offer private sessions to focus on specific technique.
Can I register my child for open gyms or camps in the middle of the month?
Youth open gyms don’t require a prior time commitment. You’re allowed to drop in at any time during the open gym and children can stay until close time (with adult supervision).
Day camps are currently ran as day-by-day events, but do require pre-registration.
Can I drop my kids off at the gym? Do kids need a parent or guardian present while they climb?
If they are enrolled in a program such as a class or camp, then you may not be required to stay at the facility. If they are coming in for open climbing or open gyms, they must be 16 years or older to remain in the facility independently.
Are there age restrictions at your facility?
Nope. We might allow only certain types of climbing depending on age, size and ability of the child due to weight limitations on some of our equipment, but if your child wants to climb, we welcome them!
What do I need to do for minors to be able to climb?
All minors require a waiver completed and signed by their parent or legal guardian. If they are under 16, they will require adult supervision while they climb.
Please remember, a climbing gym is not a playground – even though it may look like one to children.
Climbing is an inherently dangerous sport and risk management is our main priority therefore we have a number of rules and expectations that help us all work together to create a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone.
Do you offer classes or private instruction for children?
Yes. We offer weekly open gyms for kids who want to try climbing. You can drop-in or sign up in advance for a discounted youth rate. The open gym is meant for kids to explore climbing on their own, but one instructor will be available for all the kids and parents to ask questions and receive guidance.
During local school breaks, we offer day camps for kids. Learn more about our day camps here.
We also offer private sessions for anyone (kid or adult) who wants to improve their climbing skills and technique.
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.
