Vertical World Seattle

06/05/2026

From building walls, to installing pads, to setting boulders!

Thank you Asana Climbing Elevate Climbing Walls and Benky Climbing

06/03/2026

A Climb Through Time Ep. 2 is Live!

In this episode, we explore how climbing gym construction has evolved over the last four decades and why we’re building the next chapter of Vertical World differently than ever before.

Thank you again to ALL the climbers who helped build the original gyms, especially any names we forgot or left out!

From plywood walls and hand-built features to digital design and vi...

05/19/2026

Join us Friday May 29th for Rock Prom!

Whether you go to North or Seattle, come dressed to impress and climb!

05/19/2026

In 1987, long before climbing became mainstream, Rich Johnston asked a question that would open the doors to what would become America’s first climbing gym: The Vertical World.

From homemade walls and an unconventional vision to the creation of a space that would help shape climbing culture, setting, and the foundation for the entire climbing gym industry in the United States.

Through archival photos, stories from the owner, and a look back at the early days of indoor climbing, this episode explores the roots of a community that’s still growing nearly four decades later.

This is the beginning of our story.

A Climb Through Time

Episode 1 Plywood & Rocks

In 1987, long before climbing became mainstream, Rich Johnston asked a question that would open the doors to what would become America’s first climbing gym: ...

05/07/2026

Join Mitch Owens PT for the next installment of the Climber’s Health Series at VW Seattle!

In this workshop, Mitch Owens PT, a climbing injury specialist, will break down the connection between spinal mechanics and upper extremity issues.

You’ll learn practical techniques and exercises to help manage and prevent injury so you can climb with more comfort, strength, and resilience.

Free for members | $5 for non-members

See you at VW Seattle!

04/29/2026

Handstand Workshops coming up in May 🤸‍♀️

•Handstand 101• May 9th 12:15 pm
Come learn and play in a fun and support environment! will go through the fundamentals of handstands to help you feel more comfy in your inversions.

•Handstand Conditioning• May 16th, 12:15 PM
This 1-hour helps you turn knowledge into practice. You’ll move through targeted conditioning for wrists, shoulders, core, and glutes, plus drills you can repeat on your own.

Sign up using the link in our bio!

04/20/2026

You may have heard some rumors about Uplift lately, so what’s really going on?

As of Sunday, April 26th, Uplift will be joining the Vertical World family. VW members will have full access to Uplift starting that Sunday!

Uplift members can either stay an Uplift only member (with lowered monthly dues) OR they can continue to pay the same dues and have access to Uplift and VW! (Action is required for all Uplift memberships)

Andrew, the founder/owner of Uplift, wrote a letter to the Washington climbing community that you can read here:

https://mailchi.mp/verticalworld/uplift-joins-vertical-world

03/17/2026

We’re chugging along next door! The last few bouldering walls are starting to go up 🤙

03/17/2026

How do you make a tissue dance? You put a little boogie in it🤧🕺

Come by the Seattle gym on March 27th 6-9 PM for a night of climbing to tracks from

Bring your friends, meet new folks, and kick off the weekend with a little dancin 💃

See you then!

03/12/2026

Only a few hours left to get 5 punches for $78!

Seattle: https://bit.ly/4lo6vLv

North: https://bit.ly/4rwe4B4