About Us

Vertical World – America’s First Climbing Gym® provides a unique training facility and specialized programs for youth and adults within our communities.

We opened the very first rock climbing gym in America in 1987 on Elliott Ave in Seattle. The gym was no more than rocks glued to painted plywood panels. Today, with more advanced facilities, Vertical World not only accommodates a variety of programs to learn how to rock climb, but also provides performance and educational programs in fitness and yoga, birthday parties, school or church groups, corporate events, private parties, and youth camps!

Vertical World currently has three gyms in Washington: Seattle, Redmond, and Lynnwood. Please contact your local gym to check out the facilities, classes, programs, events or to book a party or corporate event.