After climbing here for about 6 months, I'm still really satisfied with the gym. And in LOVE with climbing. As I said before, it's not the largest or most state-of-the-art in the area, but for pure climbing it's great.
The staff changes up the routes pretty frequently, so it keeps things fresh. Every couple of weeks or so there are new routes to try, ranging up to 5.12+. It's frustrating when a route you're working on gets taken down, but equally exciting when a new one is put up. The bouldering walls get changed up pretty frequently too, though they could use some labeling to get around "white is really easy"... "oh try neon green, it's like impossible". Bob, the friendly and accommodating owner, is working on putting up V ratings but hasn't gotten too far yet.
I also love the community aspect of climbing. It's great seeing some of the same faces from week to week and always meeting new people. Climbers and the staff are almost always willing to help you out wherever they can.
Interesting fact: Victory brewing company is right next door and in the summer the beer brewing scent wafts in. Have you ever smelled beer being brewed? It alternates between appetizing and nauseating (for me at least) and smells like a combination of bread baking and something funky yet indescribable. You really have to experience it for yourself.
Also of note, the floor is made up of little pieces of tire-like rubber. This provides a nice, soft landing. However, it inevitably follows you home and shows up in your car, your bed, your great aunt's sock drawer... not to mention all the black dirt you breathe in that comes out in your boogers the next day. Sorry to be gross, but I got the black nose Pa... *cough cough sniffle*.
Anywho, the $240 for the six month pass was well worth it. When it expires I'm sure I'll renew it. Judging from what I've heard about other rock gyms in the area in terms of size, variety, atmosphere, location, and price, I'm fairly confident that Vertical Extremes is the place for me. Not that other places aren't great too I'm sure, but all things considered I'm perfectly happy here. read more