ALL CHALK, NO PROBLEM
Castle Dome Bouldering was developed by climbers who dare to dream big. The task, to build a world-class climbing gym with a world class community. Our mission is to provide a fun, inclusive, and adventurous environment where people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds can learn and be challenged. Come see what we’re all about!
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What Drives You
Send your next climb, find relaxation through yoga, or get the blood pumping in one of our many classes offered at Castle Dome Bouldering! If you need a small break, don’t forget to grab a snack at the cafe. This is more than a gym, this is a community.
Becoming a member means more than just joining another gym
You are joining a community
Membership perksFrequently Asked Questions
Can I just show up to Castle Dome Bouldering?
Definitely – feel free to drop in and we’ll get you set up to have a great experience. We do encourage you to wear athletic apparel if you wish to participate (we’re a gym, after all) and it’s always faster when you fill out your Visitor Agreement prior to arriving. You can always purchase a Visitor Pass prior to arriving here.
What's bouldering? Is it different from rock climbing?
Bouldering is the simplest form of rock climbing – it’s just you and the wall (and a bunch of soft padding beneath you).
It consists of climbing short but challenging “problems” that focus less on your endurance and more on your technique and power. Bouldering walls are generally around 13-16ft feet tall, so you won’t need a rope or harness. Proper falling technique and a padded landing zone provide safety (though we encourage you to down climb). You can go at it alone but we recommend climbing with friends.
It's my first time, how do I get started?
When you arrive at Castle Dome Bouldering, please feel free to walk up to reception area desk and one of our staff members will be able to assist you. During your first visit we’ll help you sign the Visitor Agreement, give you a tour of the gym, explain climbing safety, etiquette and basic techniques, and set you up with gear you may borrow during your visit.
Castle Dome staff members are always ready to provide advice and assistance. If you have any questions or would like some help before your visit, please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions at team@castledomebouldering.com or (928) 316-6690.
What do I need to prepare for my arrival?
Not much. During your first visit, an Castle Dome team member will teach you everything you need to know to get to know the gym, our rules, and get you climbing. No matter what your skill level is, we have a unique and fun route for you. We thrive on variety and update our routes every day.
As far as apparel is concerned, make sure to wear something that’s comfortable to sweat in (there’s a lot of great athletic apparel out there).
As far as gear is concerned, all you need is a pair of climbing shoes, though we recommend a chalk bag (with chalk ball) or liquid chalk to help remove moisture from your hands and improve your grip. If you don’t have these items, no problem – all of these items are available for rent or purchase at the gym.
Do you offer classes or private lessons?
Yes, we offer a range of climbing classes for all skill levels as well as private classes. Feel free to sign up for these classes through our mobile application, or by asking a friendly staff member. Outside of classes, we have a highly skilled staff that can give you pointers on your climbing technique.
We also offer fitness and yoga classes and private training sessions. Check the schedule for the latest classes and events.
Do I need a partner to climb?
No – We are a bouldering gym so no partner is needed. Though we recommend a spotter, so feel free to bring a friend (or tons of friends).
Can I bring guests with me to the gym?
Absolutely – we encourage it. Members get one Member-Guest Pass a month that can be used with their visitors who accompany them to the gym. Please note that Member Guest passes cannot be used without the associated member present, and non-members are limited from accessing Castle Dome Bouldering more than 5 times each calendar year as a non-member guest.
Can my kids climb with me?
Definitely! We require that all children under the age of 16 be actively supervised by a parent or legal guardian during their visit. Though children of all ages can climb at Castle Dome bouldering, we typically see that children 10+ years of age and older have the best experiences.
How is the difficulty of a climb determined?
In climbing, the difficulty of a climb (known as a “problem”) is called its “grade”. Grades are a numerical representation of how easy or hard a climb is. In bouldering, grades operate on the V-Scale with lower numbers, such as V0 or V1, being easier and higher numbers, such as V8 or V10, being harder.
How do I know where to begin a climb?
The beginning of a climb is indicated by a set of two Start tags that coordinate to the color of the holds on each climb. Sometimes these tags are separated, meaning the climb starts with your hands on separate climbing holds. On other climbs, the Start Tags are mounted on top of each other, indicating that your hands start on the same hold. The Start Tags will always be closest to the holds that are intended to be the beginning of a route.
How do I know where to finish a climb?
Typically, climbs end with both hands grabbing onto the top edge of the wall. Occasionally, the end of a route is marked with a black “Finish Tag” near the last hold- you’ll see these often on easier climbs since they end at a lower height. To complete your boulder, you should aim to control the finishing hold with two hands prior to descending from the wall.