ASCEND Youth Climbing Camps

We recommend ages 6-14 for half day camp and 8-16 for full day camp, but are sometimes flexible. Inquire if necessary.

Every day will include activities such as bouldering, top rope climbing, games, yoga, hiking, crate-stacking, slacklining and more. Specific activities vary by facility and camp session. Our highly experienced and trained camp staff will be involved constantly by supervising, teaching, coaching, and encouraging each child. Participants will be supported as they choose their level of challenge and make new friends along the way.

For camp arrival, please park and bring your child into the gym. For dismissal, please park and enter the gym to pick up your child. Check our website for more location specific details regarding parking.

Rock climbing is a wonderful sport but like any sport there are inherent risks. Kids will be climbing, falling, jumping and more during camp. Gravity means that all of these movements have varied levels of impact. Our coaches will be there to instruct campers on proper technique, practice necessary skills and lead fun activities. Being able to follow directions and control one's actions are great ways to minimize risks. Please discuss the following gym rules with kids before they attend camp.

Youth Rules and Tips:

• Kids LOVE and EXCEL at climbing, especially bouldering. Unfortunately, they sometimes view it as a jungle gym when in reality it is quite the opposite! We want kids to have fun, but our guests' safety is our top-priority. Please help us take safety seriously.

• No running on or off the pads, but especially on the pads.

• Pads are only for climbing and falling on. Do not jump around, chase anyone, or perform gymnastics.

• Approach the intended climb from directly in front of the start. Do not walk on the pads to your next climb. Simply said, get on, climb, then get off.

• Give other climbers at least 15 feet of space and only one climber per route.

• The downclimb is only for getting off of a topout boulder, not for climbing up.

• Keep chalk socks inside chalk bags. Never throw chalk socks or anything else.

• Fitness, cardio, and training areas are off limits for those 13 and under.

• NEVER walk underneath a climber. This could result in injury or death.

Campers will have the opportunity to re-energize with a snack break every morning and a mid-day lunch for full day campers. We will not provide lunch or snacks, so please send something with them every day. Kids are also permitted to buy concessions from our front desk and water fountains are always available.

Kids can climb after camp has ended for that day without having to purchase an additional day pass. That being said, our staff supervision ends at the conclusion of camp; so any children under the age of 14 would need to be directly supervised by a parent or guardian.

We encourage athletic apparel for climbing.  Be aware that climbers must wear a harness before climbing on the roped wall so clothing such as skimpy shorts or tank tops, as well as baggy clothes like skirts or hoodies are not ideal. Generally kids wear shorts and t-shirts. Wearing socks (especially above the shoe line) can often help prevent blisters if the climbing shoes don't agree with children's feet.

Yes, any climbing gear a child would need to participate in camp activities will be provided. This includes climbing shoes, chalk bags, and climbing harnesses.

Yes, every participant and visitor must sign a liability waiver in order to enter our facility. Individuals under the age of 18 must have a parent or legal guardian sign for them. You can do this ahead of time on our website or in person at the gym.

Yes, be on the lookout for a follow up email before camp starts with a form to complete. It is important that we have accurate emergency contacts, dismissal approvals, medical info and so forth.

• 100% of your deposit will be refunded if camp is canceled for low registration or staffing related circumstances.

• 100% of your deposit will be refunded if you cancel 14 days or more before your scheduled camp session.

• 50% of your deposit will be refunded if you cancel within 6-13 days of your scheduled camp session.

• 0% of your deposit will be refunded if you cancel less than 5 days before your scheduled camp session.

Tipping the camp staff is not required. Although if you feel a staff member has positively exceeded your expectations, feel free to express your gratitude however you see fit.

Absolutely! Our camps are designed to be accessible to all levels of climbers; from first timers to experienced competitors. First timers often need to pace themselves to avoid blisters or soreness. Our coaches will monitor and encourage self awareness but it is the camper's responsibility to manage their body.

We do not offer day care before or after camp. Our camp hours are 9am-12pm for half day camp and 9am-3pm for full day camp.

We will do everything we can to include children of all abilities. For more specific info please send us a message. If you have any additional questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Yes. We are committed to sharing climbing with as many people as possible, regardless of income.  Our Equity and Outreach Fund is available for financial assistance. Please email [email protected] for more details.