History

Vertical World, the very first rock climbing gym in America, opened in 1987 on Elliott Ave in Seattle. We opened in a run down warehouse next to the train tracks. The climbing walls were primitive designs constructed with painted plywood; and rocks attached with epoxy. This was the time before pre-made handholds were available.

What was originally a place for climbers to hang out and get a good pump when the weather was bad, has morphed into a business with a vision based on servicing all levels of abilities and ages. During the first year of business, as we were huddled around a portable kerosene heater (we couldn't afford to buy a heating system), we never dreamed that the business would grow to what it is now.

The best part of experiencing the growth of the Vertical World is walking into the gym and seeing members that have been with us for 25 years. It has been a great journey and we look forward to another 25.