FAQs

First Ascent Humboldt Park is a bouldering-only gym.

Bouldering is climbing shorter routes (called “problems” ) using a cushy pad below you to protect against a fall – no harness or rope required. Some say bouldering is the purest form of climbing: it’s just you and the wall.

Bouldering is often more difficult move for move than sport climbing, requiring solid climbing technique and problem solving skills to unlock the “beta” (the series of movements required to complete a boulder problem) and get a “send” (when a climber completes a boulder problem from start to finish with no rests or falls).

Comfortable, stretchy athletic clothing. We recommend wearing pants or shorts that cover your knees to protect them against scraping on the wall.If you will be renting climbing shoes, we recommend wearing socks also.

Though classes are not required to boulder, we highly recommend taking a Learning To Boulder class to gain basic bouldering safety skills and learn fundamental climbing techniques. Once you understand belay basics, taking a Bouldering 101 can help you learn efficient climbing technique that will fast track your climbing progress.

We recommend renting climbing shoes also, since they significantly improve your climbing experience, but you can climb in closed-toe athletic shoes if you prefer.

Yes! We sell a wide variety of climbing shoes, harnesses, chalk bags, chalk, and other climbing essentials. Stop in or call for selection on specific items.

Absolutely! We have a full range or cardio equipment, free weights, functional training equipment, and climbing-specific training equipment. You will have everything you need to get a full-body workout at First Ascent.

All regularly scheduled Yoga and Community Fit classes are included with your Membership or Day Pass purchase. Basecamp group training, personal training, and special workshops require additional purchases – click each link for more information. 

Learn more about the FA Bonus here.