Schedule

ASCEND's youth programs are designed to grow strong minds and bodies in Pittsburgh's youth. No matter a child's age or level of experience, we've got a program for you - see below to learn more! To get inspired, follow us on Instagram.

If you haven't already, read up on how to create your new online account and get our new app HERE.

Otherwise, view the schedule and book classes and programs HERE.

Rules

There are no age restrictions to climb at ASCEND, however children 13 and under must be directly supervised by attentive chaperones at a 1:3 ratio.

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. This is why we will strictly enforce the *DIRECT SUPERVISION of any kids 13 and under. While supervising, please remember the following rules. Please help us take safety seriously. If these rules are not followed, we reserve the right to ask you to leave.

NEVER walk underneath a climber. This could result in injury or death and is the most important thing that you will read on this entire website!

Rules?! There are no rules in climbing, right? Well kind of. So here are ASCEND's:

  • Food, beverages, and sharp objects must stay off the bouldering pads.
  • Street shoes and bare feet are not permitted on climbing walls.
  • Shirts are required - we promise to keep it cool.
  • Sober climbing is the best climbing - do not climb while intoxicated.
  • All climbers and visitors must complete a liability waiver before entering ASCEND.
  • Climbers 13 and under must be directly supervised by an adult.
  • You must be at least 14 to be in the fitness and training areas or to take a regularly scheduled climbing, fitness, or yoga class.
  • There is only one wall you can end up on the top of: the top-out wall!
  • Belaying requires approval from ASCEND staff.
  • Climbing shoes are not permitted in the bathrooms. Gross!
  • Climbing flooring is for falling - not walking, sitting, or horsing around.
  • Use caution when using the climbing walls and fitness equipment - this is not a jungle gym!

Etiquette schmettiquette! But seriously, let's keep everyone happy and healthy.

  • This is a safe space. Everyone deserves respect and compassion.
  • Pay attention! Other climbers may be above you or waiting to climb behind you.
  • Only spot when asked and/or trained to do so.
  • Politely ask before telling someone how to climb - figuring out the beta is half the challenge!
  • Gender does not determine skill or strength. Don't assume.
  • Keep your wet and muddy shoes away from the climbing areas.
  • Chalk belongs in your bag and on your hands.
  • Clean up after yourself - put away fitness equipment - wipe down machines.

Please keep in mind: Failure to adhere to the Rules & Etiquette of ASCEND can lead to the suspension of climbing and facility access privileges.

Youth 101

YOUTH CLIMBING 101: A 4-week session designed to introduce a child to the sport of indoor climbing. An instructor will cover basic gym safety, etiquette, bouldering, auto-belay climbing, technique, lingo, and more! Kids aged 6-13 are welcome to join this introductory course, developed to give the confidence needed to have fun, be safe, and make friends in the gym! If a child is interested in joining the A-Team, this is the place to start!

Duration: Four 1.5 hour sessions each month. Check the booking link for dates and times. Attending all classes is strongly recommended!

If you haven't already, read up on how to create your new online account and get our new app HERE.

Otherwise, view the schedule and book classes and programs HERE.

Family 101

A 4-week program designed to prepare a family to responsibly enjoy the sport of indoor climbing. Caring instructors will teach adults and children about basic gym safety, etiquette, bouldering, rope wall climbing, technique, lingo, and more! If you want your entire family to participate in a great sport together, this is the program for you! Class curriculum varies by facility.

If you haven't already, read up on how to create your new online account and get our new app HERE.

Otherwise, view the schedule and book classes and programs HERE.

 

A-Team

Become a part of the A-TEAM by joining the ASCEND Youth Team! Designed for children and teens of all abilities, coaches will foster a positive, inclusive community that supports recreational and competitive climbers as they strive to meet their own personal goals. Participants will learn climbing specific skills as well as teamwork, problem solving, and developmentally appropriate body awareness. Coaches will work directly with each team member to identify and progress toward individual goals whether that be to enjoy climbing with friends or to climb competitively. Our climbing team is a fun place to explore limits, gain confidence, and learn life-long skills. Kids love to climb and we have the options to meet the needs of your young climber.

Already a member of the A-Team? Check out our team reference page for more helpful information.

A-TEAM PRICING

All A-Team subscriptions come with an ASCEND Membership, allowing A-Team participants to visit ASCEND at any time throughout the month. They also include small group coaching and instruction at each practice, rental gear on team days, an ASCEND A-Team shirt, 30% off Evolv climbing shoes (team sponsor!), discounted registration to ASCEND hosted competitions, and more! Monthly pricing is be based on the number of coached practices per week.

Pricing is as follows:

  • Once per week (estimated 4 sessions per month) = $106 / mo. ($26.5 per 2 hr session)
  • Twice per week (estimated 8 sessions per month ) = $176 / mo. ($22 per 2 hr session)
  • Thrice per week (estimated 12 sessions per month) = $192 / mo. ($15.58 per 2 hr session)
  • [COMP TEAM] Thrice per week (estimated 12 sessions per month plus coach support at comps) = $257 ($21.42 per 3hr session)
    • participation in USAC Regional, Divisional and National competitions may incur additional fees

In keeping with current parameters:

  • Recreational Team (REC)* - may select once, twice or thrice per week sessions
  • Intermediate Team (INT)* - may select once, twice or thrice per week sessions
  • Advanced Team (ADV)* - may select twice or thrice per week sessions
  • Competition Team (COMP) - must attend practices thrice per week

To be eligible for the A-Team, athletes must have successfully completed one of the following:

  • Youth Climbing 101
  • Family Climbing 101
  • Summer Camp
  • Athlete Evaluation
SOUTH SIDE A-TEAM

A-TEAM REC: Two hours of coached climbing in a positive, non-competitive environment where kids can boulder, climb the top-rope wall, play games, challenge themselves, build strength, and make friends while under the supervision of caring and experienced staff. Athletes practice 1-3 times per week in a non-competitive environment with a focus on building basic strength and skills through our A-Team Achievement Levels curriculum. Open to all ages with ages, 6-12 being the most common group. Team commitment is one month.

  • Ages: 6-17 (or 18 if still in HS)
  • Duration: Check the registration form to see current availability.
    • Tuesdays from 5p-7p
    • Thursdays from 5p-7p
    • Fridays from 11a-1p
    • Saturday from 12p-2p
    • Sunday from 9a-11a

A-TEAM INTERMEDIATE: Two hours of coached climbing in a focused, competitive environment where kids can improve their climbing technique through drills and individualized coaching, build strength through fitness training, and prepare to compete in climbing competitions if desired. Athletes practice 1-3 times per week in a competition optional environment with a focus on climbing specific strength and intermediate level techniques through our A-Team Achievement Levels. Open to all ages with ages with 8-14 years being the most common group. Team commitment is one month. Participation in USA Climbing competitions is optional.*

  • Ages: 8-17 (or 18 if still in HS)
  • Duration: Check the registration form to see current availability.
    • Tuesdays from 5p-7p
    • Thursdays from 5p-7p
    • Fridays from 11a-1p
    • Saturdays from 12p-2p 
    • Sundays from 9a-11a

A-TEAM ADVANCED: Two hours of coached climbing in a focused, competitive environment where kids can improve their climbing technique through drills and individualized coaching, build strength through fitness training, and prepare to compete in climbing competitions if desired. Athletes practice 2-3 times per week in a competition optional environment with a focus on high level climbing specific strength, advanced techniques, rope skills and an introduction to outdoor climbing. Open to ages 10+ with 12-18 years being the most common group. Team commitment is one season; Fall (Sept-Dec), Winter/Spring (Jan-May) and Summer (June-August). Participation in USA Climbing competitions is optional.*

  • Ages: 8-17 (or 18 if still in HS)
  • Duration: Check the registration form to see current availability.
    • Mondays from 5p-7p
    • Wednesdays from 5p-7p
    • Fridays from 5p-7p

A-TEAM COMPETITION: Three hours of coached climbing in a focused, competitive environment where kids can improve their climbing technique through drills and individualized coaching, build strength through fitness training and climbing workouts, and prepare to compete in climbing competitions. Athletes practice 3 times per week in a highly competitive environment with a focus on climbing fitness, competition preparation and mental strength building. Open to ages 9-18 years. Team commitment is one season; Fall (Sept-Dec), Winter/Spring (Jan-May) and Summer (June-August). Participation in USA Climbing competitions is mandatory.*

  • Ages: 8-17 (or 18 if still in HS)
  • Duration: 3 hours each night:
    • Mondays from 4:45p-7:45p
    • Wednesdays from 4:45p-7:45p
    • Fridays from 4:45p-7:45p

*A-Team coaches will be on-hand for Qualifying and Regional level comp support at no cost. Additional costs may apply when competing at Divisional and National level competitions.

TO REGISTER FOR THE A-TEAM (South Side), athletes must be eligible and complete both of the following items:

POINT BREEZE A-TEAM
A-TEAM REC: Two hours of coached climbing in a positive, non-competitive environment where kids can boulder, climb the top-rope wall, play games, challenge themselves, build strength, and make friends while under the supervision of caring and experienced staff. Athletes practice 1-3 times per week in a non-competitive environment with a focus on building basic strength and skills through our A-Team Achievement Levels curriculum. Open to all ages with ages 6-12 being the most common group. Team commitment is one month.
  • Ages: 6-17 (or 18 if still in HS)
  • Duration: Check the registration form to see current availability
    • Mondays from 5p-7p
    • Saturdays from 9a-11a
 
A-TEAM INTERMEDIATE: Two hours of coached climbing in a focused, competitive environment where kids can improve their climbing technique through drills and individualized coaching, build strength through fitness training, and prepare to compete in climbing competitions if desired. Athletes practice 1-3 times per week in a competition optional environment with a focus on climbing specific strength and
intermediate level techniques through our A-Team Achievement Levels.  Open to all ages with ages with 8-14 years being the most common group.  Team commitment is one month. Participation in USA Climbing competitions is optional.*
  • Ages: 8-17 (or 18 if still in HS)
  • Duration: Check the registration form to see current availability
    • Mondays from 5p-7p
    • Saturdays from 9a-11a
 
TO REGISTER FOR THE A-TEAM (Point Breeze), athletes must be eligible and complete both of the following items:
  • Complete THIS FORM, then,
  • Purchase your A-Team Membership:
YOUNGSTOWN A-TEAM
A-TEAM REC: Two hours of coached climbing in a positive, non-competitive environment where kids can boulder, climb the top-rope wall, play games, challenge themselves, build strength, and make friends while under the supervision of caring and experienced staff. Athletes practice 1-3 times per week in a non-competitive environment with a focus on building basic strength and skills through our A-Team Achievement Levels curriculum. Open to all ages with ages 6-12 being the most common group. Team commitment is one month.
  • Ages: 6-17 (or 18 if still in HS)
  • Duration: Check the registration form to see current availability
    • Mondays from 4:30p-6:30p
    • Thursdays from 4:30p-6:30p
 
A-TEAM INTERMEDIATE: Two hours of coached climbing in a focused, competitive environment where kids can improve their climbing technique through drills and individualized coaching, build strength through fitness training, and prepare to compete in climbing competitions if desired. Athletes practice 1-3 times per week in a competition optional environment with a focus on climbing specific strength and
intermediate level techniques through our A-Team Achievement Levels. Open to all ages with ages with 8-14 years being the most common group.  Team commitment is one month. Participation in USA Climbing competitions is optional.*
  • Ages: 8-17 (or 18 if still in HS)
  • Duration: Check the registration form to see current availability
    • Wednesdays from 5p-7p
    • Fridays from 5-7p
 
TO REGISTER FOR THE A-TEAM (Youngstown), athletes must be eligible and complete both of the following items:
  • Complete THIS FORM, then,
  • Purchase your A-Team Membership:
A-TEAM INFORMATION
  • All participants should stop at the front desk on the first session to receive a membership card and shirt.  Please use this card to check in for every session.
  • Snacks, transportation, and before/after team child care are not included in any of the A-Team offerings.
  • Special events, competitions, and holidays may impact some sessions resulting in cancellation or rescheduling. Some months may have fewer than 4-weeks worth of sessions while others may have more. We will do our best to be fair and equitable and provide advanced notice for any schedule changes. Thank you in advance for your understanding!

If you have any questions, suggestions, interest in joining the team, interest in competitive level training, or for more information, send us a message.

Camps

ASCEND's camps are designed to grow strong minds and bodies in our region's youth. Caring, experienced ASCEND counselors will guide children through fun and developmentally appropriate activities, such as bouldering, top-rope climbing, yoga, slacklining, and more!

SUMMER CAMPS
2023 Climbing Camp Schedule:
 
ASCEND Youngstown
 

ASCEND South Side

ASCEND Point Breeze

 
To learn more or register, log into the ASCEND Approach customer portal.  It's easy and free to create an account if you don't have one yet. Also be sure to check out the FAQs below. It's gonna be a great camp season - hope to see you there!
CAMPS FAQ
CAMPS FAQ
What ages are best suited for ASCEND Summer Camp?
  • We recommend ages 6-14 for half day camp and 8-16 for full day camp, but are sometimes flexible. Inquire if necessary.
What will a typical summer camp day look like?
  • 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.
How do I drop off/pick up my child?
  • 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.
Is rock climbing dangerous?
  • 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.
Will you serve lunch or snacks?
  • 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.
Can my child climb after summer camp hours have finished?
  • 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.
What should my child wear?
  • 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.
Is climbing rental gear included in the price of camp?
  • 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.
Does my child need a current liability waiver?
  • 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.
Does ASCEND need any other info about my child?
  • 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.
What is your refund policy?
  • 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.
Should I tip the camp staff?
  • 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.
Is it ok to enroll my child if they have never climbed before?
  • 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.
Do you offer day care before or after camp hours?
  • 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.
My child has special needs. Can they attend 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. We'll see you soon!
Are scholarships available?
  • 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.
Scouts

We have several scout program options to meet the ages or needs of any scout.

  • Our 2-hour workshop is designed for youth ages 8 and under. This program includes climbing terminology, indoor climbing safety/etiquette, basic bouldering skills, and climbing with auto-belays. Cost is $35 per participant (minimum 3 participants).
  • Our 3-hour workshop is designed for youth ages 9-13. This program includes all aspects of the 2-hour workshop plus top-rope climbing. Cost is $45 per participant (minimum 3 participants).
  • Our 4-hour workshop is designed for youth ages 14-18 or for those that are at least a First Class Scout. This program includes all aspects of the 2-hour and 3-hour program plus belaying and rappelling. By the end of the workshop, participants should be able to earn the Climbing Merit Badge for Scouts BSA or the Ultimate Recreation Challenge Badge for Girl Scouts. Cost is $60 per participant (minimum 3 participants).

Important Notes:

  • Any necessary climbing gear rentals are included at no cost during the program.
  • All prices are based on a minimum of 3 participants and programs may not be booked without 3 or more participants.
  • Sessions scheduled with 5 weeks or more of notice will be guaranteed to be staffed. Sessions scheduled with less than 5 weeks of notice will not be guaranteed, but we will do our best to make it happen.

Send us a message for more information or to schedule your group.

Scholarships

ASCEND's Equity + Outreach Fund will work to support families in need of financial assistance! Bear with us as this program grows, but the goal is simple - to connect those in need with those who want to give. Interested families will apply for financial assistance for programs such as Camps, A-Team, Youth 101, and Family 101, and we will work with those families to help offset those costs. Simply send us an email telling us what you're hopeful for by clicking the button below. Also be sure to learn about our Supported Memberships and Complimentary Day Passes.

REQUEST ASSISTANCE                     MAKE A DONATION

Competitions

Youth climbing comps? Yep - they're a thing that we host, so keep your eye out for the next Steel Town Throw Down or USA Climbing Event! Head on over to our EVENT BLOG to learn more about what's coming up and what's history.