First time coming to this climbing gym. There are street parking, but I think you have to pay if you go there Monday to Friday. Staff welcome you when you get in and all staff are wearing mask. There are hand sanitizer in the gym if you need it. Bryan was very helpful and took the time to explain the safely and the gym facility. You can rent harness, shoes and chalk bag there. So if you are a beginner and doesn't have any gear, no worries, they got you. Even though the gym is not big, there are different level of climb for you to choose from. And if you need any guidance, Byran can help you out I had fun there and will be back for more :) read more

Source Climbing Center - Climbing Near Me - Vancouver, Washington

Smaller climbing facility with the best people to operate and with an amazing climbing community. The source employees are very friendly, ready to assist, very skillful &knowledgeable climbers. They have also a very strong youth training program. read more

Came for our first time today with some family and our 5 year old. My son loved the kids area with the slide! For rock climbing this place is really affordable! Brigg ( I believe his name was ) was extremely friendly, professional and educative. Not the biggest place and I wish there were more harness lanes when busy but all in all this is a great workout! Next time I'd defiantly rent there climbing shoes! read more

The Source is an amazing gym and the only climbing gym in Vancouver, WA. Yes, there are bigger gyms in Portland, but good luck with traffic and those day fees Yes, the Source may be smaller, but it boasts more than a handful of top rope routes, lead routes and more. There are around 28 anchors, with at least 2 routes on each anchor. Let's math this up. That's at least 52 ropes routes. That doesn't mention bouldering. There is at least two routes per grade V0-V6 and then 1 route per grade, V7-V9 PER WALL. Let's math it again. Oh, more than 20 bouldering routes? Yeah I thought so. More like 50 bouldering routes. Also, the auto belay isn't just for kids. Sure, if you go during busy times, maybe it's just for kids, but I go at lunch hour and can hop on. They set auto belay routes from grades 5.4-5.12. Lots of options. Also, the Source boasts very high safety standards, not just letting any random person belay any other random person in the gym. I'm so happy the Source is committed to everyone's safety and requires a belay check and belay classes. The Source is very family friendly, and has a whole area upstairs just for kids. They have graded top rope and bouldering routes for kids up in the Mezzanine! The Source is also the friendliest gym I have been too. They actually care and give an entire orientation when you come in. They want people to come back, not just give them a quick look over and say "on your way". They are committed to the safety and longevity of their climbers! 5 star! I spend hours upon hours at the Source, with best friends, my 6 year old son, my family, and all the great people I have met from climbing here over 6 years! read more

Source Climbing Center - Lead climbing up a 5.8. The Source has top rope, lead climbing, and bouldering. - Climbing Near Me - Vancouver, Washington

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Great resource for us senior citizens getting back into climbing, friendly owners and staff. Have always enjoyed coming here for the past 8 years. Would highly recommend for all ages. read more

Definitely a third place. Lovely, wonderful staff. It's a pretty small space but there are just enough routes to keep you busy and they reset frequency. There's bouldering, top rope, lead, auto-belay, and a small gym upstairs for those inclined. read more

very nice people and helpful. i like the facilities as well. i was meant to take a college class there but it got canceled. i didn't know and showed up for the first day and the people were so nice that they let me climb for free that day since i hadn't been notified. read more

This place is my jam! Whether you're a beginner (like me just over a month ago) or an experienced climber (like many of my new friends) this is an awesome place to climb. I started with the Belay On class to learn the ropes (pun intended) and after my free week of climbing, I was hooked. The staff are friendly, professional and highly skilled - and they excel at creating an open, friendly atmosphere with many positive vibes. The walls are only 36 feet high, but the creative and challenging routes more than make up for that. Whether you come on your own or with a friend, whether you like bouldering or sport climbing, whether you prefer positive handholds or crimps, there's something for you at the Source. read more

Source Climbing Center - Me on the bouldering wall - Climbing Near Me - Vancouver, Washington

This was my first indoor rock climbing experience and I really enjoyed it! The staff was really friendly. It was pretty busy when I went, as it was a Saturday night......but SO FUN! read more

Source Climbing Center - Climbing Near Me - Vancouver, Washington

I've been here a handful of times and really enjoy it. There aren't too many places in Vancouver to rock climb, so the location and price is convenient when I'm looking for a fun place to entertain friends when they come from out of town. read more

Our family loves this gym! Each route is set to challenge the climber and I truly appreciate that. Employees of the Source are always super welcoming and with the current pandemic, safety is their #1 priority. If you're looking for a community of wonderful people, look no further. read more

Fantastic community that is welcoming to all. Great for beginners and advanced. Sometimes can be crowded but worth the experience.

...more like the Source of Fraud Center. I was visiting a friend for the weekend, signed a bunch of liability wavers, apparently it was a monthly service contract. They had been billing me for 7 months when I noticed, thought it would be no big deal to get reimbursed right? Wong! These guys are shady mothers. I had to change my card number. If you can't trust them to have basic business ethics, you cannot trust their ropes and bolts. Proceed with caution... read more

This is the first time I went here, just wanted to try it. $14 for adults, $12 for youth, plus an $6 for the rental of the harness and shoes (one is a $2 rental, one is $4, cannot remember which is for the price. You can come and go as you please, which is awesome. Friendly staff, smaller place but hey, that is fine by me, they offer cubby holes for your belongings and have lockers (bring your own lock). They have a couple of auto belays (not really sure what they are called), children under 12 have to have someone else clip them in and out, they also have ones you can have with a second person holding the ropes. They have a bouldering place off to the side, 12 and older only, with an adult there, upstairs they have a fitness area, members only and 14 and older, then they have a mini boulder area, adult supervision for the wee little ones, with a slide to go down. The kiddos had fun, I would definitely come here again, and you can rent chalk for $2 as well. You can also buy climbing shoes and shirts there as well, not sure if they sell harnesses there, but hey, this is a good warm up to start out as, when you are just a beginner. Employees read more

Such a disappointment. First off, this place is TINY. I've been climbing for years (mostly in gyms), frequented many gyms in four different states, and this is the smallest gym I've ever seen. It's basically a big garage. There's really only a handful of top roping routes, a handful of lead routes, maybe seven auto-belays (which are pretty much exclusively the kids' domain, as kids under 12 are not allowed to access the bouldering, lead, or human-belay areas), and maybe 20 bouldering problems, all packed into a small area where you're pretty much always guaranteed to be in someone's way. There is apparently a mezzanine area with a tiny kids' wall and an upper level with some workout equipment, but it sounds like you have to be a member to access that area. The small size also translates to not a whole lot of variety of routes, especially for beginners. Second, you'd better own your own belay device if you want to try one of the five human-belay routes. They don't provide them or rent them out. Don't have a belay device? Stick to the auto-belays - if you don't mind fighting off the kids. Third, no crash pads in the bouldering area, unlike almost every other gym I've seen. (In fact, most gyms I've been to yell at you or kick you out if you don't use the crash pads they provide.) Kinda doesn't really make me feel safe bouldering - or rather, you'd better have a lot of faith in your ability to downclimb or just not fall. The only other gym I've seen that didn't have crash pads had bouldering walls you could climb on top of and then walk down steps inside the wall and out a doorway. Not here. Lastly, over the years I have taken probably 20 people to the climbing gym for their first time. I have taught them all how to belay properly and safely in 30 minutes, had them signed off by gym staff (as was required), and gotten them hooked on climbing. At Source however, I was told that I was NOT ALLOWED to teach my buddy who was new to climbing how to belay. I would be permitted to belay test (using my own gear), but my buddy would have to come back another time and pay the $49 non-member rate for a TWO HOUR scheduled belay class taught by Source staff, where he would be belay tested - so that he could belay with the device that he doesn't have and wouldn't be able to rent the next time anyways? If you're new to climbing, trust me - it DOES get better than this. Please. For your own sake. Expand your horizons and try somewhere else. If you're not new to climbing, skip Source. I'm new to the area, but I sure hope there are other fish in the sea. Source is the McDonald's Filet-o-Fish of gyms, but I'm still holding out for that fresh grilled salmon. read more

What was the first thing my husband and i did when moving to the Portland area? Seek out the best climbing gym if course! Coming from a spoiled climber who had been a member of the United State's largest indoor gym (EarthTreks in Rockville, MD), I realized that we would likely not have the same type of climbing gym again... but luckily of the 3 in the area, we found the Source and it's the best of all. It's only been around for two years, we actually walked in on their two year anniversary day for the first time. You can tell it has some room for growth, but c'mon guys they're still growing. For what they have done so far and being better than the other two climbing gyms in the area, they're gonna soar even higher. Facts: Okay they don't have specifically overhangs/upside arches, but they have a lot of clean space and 50 foot walls. Lots of top ropes that change monthly and room for lead climbers too. There are 4 auto belays for solo climbers as well as a bouldering cave. The people are SOO NICE! Not just the staff, but the boulderers too. Sometimes you get the vibe certain free climbers are competitive or clique-ish but everyone is so open. People, strangers included, will cheer you on. I love that! It's especially good since at least twice a week I'll see big groups of new first time climbers getting orientations and trying out the gym. The Source family has really created a good community here! Upstairs they have about half a dozen 25 foot walls for kiddies, as well as a short 10 foot kid's boulder wall (not past vertical, pretty standard) which allows them to climb over completely and come down a kiddie slide. They don't have room for a gym or space for yoga at the moment, but hopefully that's part of their growth process. Occasionally they'll post mini-clinics for members, i.e. women's bouldering secrets, so they can offer some class like bonuses for members. That's a nice treat! They have some Source promo items for sale and what climbing equipment they don't sell, their members get a discount at the local sports equipment store to make up for it. Prices are pretty standard... tops off at $55 per month (per person) if you don't want to prepay for a further discounted annual rate. Notes for climbers: No crash pads for a good reason... Their policy and research has them operating without them because their floors are extra cushy, and they've heard more injuries result from falling improperly (on the edges of crash pads), than falling flat without them. No floor anchors either, so if you and your climbing partner have significantly different body weights, you may be better off auto belaying. Maybe about 4,500 - 5,000 square feet total. Very clean, smells good, and they keep the temperature nice and cool. Give'm a visit, and look for me :) read more

The Source has started my lifelong love of climbing. I got the groupon, had an awesome intro lesson with a great instructor, and am enjoying the crap out of my week-long free climbing/rentals. I'm only 3 days in to my new climbing obsession and still a big time rookie, but from what I can tell The Source has an awesome variety of routes and walls. Plus two auto-belays. The place is well staffed with people passionate about climbing who are always down to answer questions. And not to mention the obvious, but Vancouver NEEDED a place like this. It's brought in a whole slew of outdoorsy, young, portland types. And a big thank you to the owners who put the gym in downtown Vancouver rather than some shitty strip mall out in the burbs. Yay! read more

When The Source opened up in "da Couve" I knew there was a god - a god of rocks and boulders that gives downtown Couve a dose of vibrancy and energy! Co-owners Hans and Michael are the saviors of this flat town. They and their staff are friendly and informative and safety is their top priority. Come down to The Source, strap on a harness and climb up their walls of funness!!! The Couve is back on the climbing map, y'all!!! read more

Great gym period. Its not as big as some other gyms within 15 miles, but the fact that it doesn't see nearly as much traffic, makes this the most overlooked climbing gym in the "Portland" area. Just awesome read more

Recently moved to the Vancouver area and I was very excited to discover a climbing gym on this side of the river. While I'm not particularly good, I've been climbing for years so this review is really geared towards the member / repeat visitor rather than someone looking for a one day adventure / birthday party (though they do those too I see). Source Climbing feels like a new gym, or just very well maintained. Friendly staff, good diversity of problem types in the bouldering area, lots of incline to the walls, range of holds. In my short time here so far, they've already done some set changes... good sign. The gym is on the smaller side and can fill up, especially if there's a group or class but for the most part, everyone seems to move around pretty quickly and not work a lead / top-rope route too long. The location is in the back part of downtown meaning street parking and meters, though I've yet to have an issue finding a space right nearby. Overall it's been a friendly community and good experience so far. read more

A great climbing gym. A good mixture of auto belay, top rope, lead, bouldering, and kid centered areas. I appreciate the welcoming, and non-elitist staff (which for some reason is hard to come by at climbing gyms). This place is the most kid friendly climbing gym I've ever been to - I only wish that I'd had the opportunity to explore climbing at a young age. The only down side, is the size of this place... it can get packed! read more

I took the Belaying class at Source and really enjoyed it. Joe taught the class and did a fantastic job of teaching our class of 5 the basics of belaying and safety checks for climbing. The class came with a week of free climbing and equipment rental. The facility is well maintained and offers a variety of climbing courses for all skill levels. The staff is super friendly and after going 1-2 times they greeted me by name when I came in. The staff was also great about offering suggestions to make my belaying smoother and helped correct any safety issues as they arose. read more

There inst much this gym wont do for you, the routes are great, the employees are incredibly knowledgeable and experienced. I only wish since they are soooo popular now that they get a bigger facility.. or even a 2nd location! The owner is super easy going when you speak with him, the gym is very clean ...even though I cascade chalk while climbing, its always very clean, the music is great, and most climbers are well aware of the rules. Thanks for having a great gym! read more

We have been members for some time now. My two daughters have recently joined the youth climbing team. Our favorite part is the excellent employees at this gym. Everyone knows our names, greets us with smiles and encourage my daughters to progress in their skills. The friendly atmosphere is really important to us, and this gym has that plus great routes! worth your time and money. read more

Source Climbing Center - My 15 year old on the wall. - Climbing Near Me - Vancouver, Washington

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About a year ago I wrote a review about this climbing gym. I gave it 3 stars because I didn't feel like it met my standards. But now I totally don't understand why I said that. This gym is super awesome and it is filled with some of the best people I've ever met. I also now really like the climbing they offer. I was being super unreasonable and rude. I truly think that this climbing gym has a great atmosphere and it is great place to get into climbing. It's also cheaper then most other gyms. So sure it's smaller, but it also saves you more money. It's made me such a better climber. I also think I've met people at this gym that have changed my life. I truly love this place and I wouldn't change it. read more

I'm writing this as a person who has zero climbing experience, but who has kids who are obsessed with this sport! I have an 8 and 5 year old who are in their second 4-week session of climbing lessons here, and I have a feeling leaving won't ever be an option! Brigg has been the most amazing instructor - pretty sure my kids like him more than they like me. He's so patient, so amazing at giving instruction to young kids, and they would also want me tell you "he's super fun!!" That's as far as I feel able to offer a review, just because I know next-to-nothing about the sport, but I can tell you as a Mom, bring your kids here if they're expressing any interest at all in climbing! You won't be sorry you did! read more

I love the Source. I climb there 3x a week. Staff is super friendly and helpful. Classes have been very good for me and it has changed my climbing in the few months since I joined. What I really appreciate is the attention to safety--staff are always noticing climbers, offering solid wisdom to keep us safe as needed. Feels like family here. There are different routes and levels, and 4 auto belay machines. So glad Hans and Michael took the plunge and opened the Source. This is SO much better than working out at a traditional gym--I leave feeling rejuvenated. DF read more

Wonderful indoor sport fun for the entire family! All 3 of my kids enjoy it and watching them you can tell it is a great confidence builder. There prices are quite reasonable and rinly staff. read more

Best climbing gym attitude I've experienced. People who work there are just solid, genuine and kind people which makes the whole experience being there comfortable and fun. read more

Wow. Probably the most accurate grading of any indoor gym. This place is for true climbers and not for anyone just trying to hang out and climb a bit. The routes are decent, maybe a little under maintained, but there are probably 30-40 in the gym which is impressive. Little lead climbing, 3 autos, and the rest is TR. my main complaint is the bouldering. Taped routes, slimy rocks, and no real grading system. A "0" (v0) can be harder than what said a 5. It's pretty accurate to outdoors but the bouldering is small. The tread wall also doesn't work so yeah read more

Great place for the little ones that have a fearless attitude if you can make their Wednesday morning special for kids. Rest of place looks awesome for big kids too. Friendly staff willing to help out is a plus. read more

Love this place! It's a fun atmosphere with really knowledgable staff who are friendly and helpful. They change the routes just enough that you can take your time on hard ones but also almost always find new ones to try! I'm an rookie climber but as far as I know this place is great. The new fitness center upstairs for members is also awesome because you get to try some cool types of work outs most gyms to offer like the moving rock wall! read more

This place is phenomenal! I haven't climbed since I was a kid so I was a little scared after that many years but I am glad my friend brought me here. The people here are really friendly and always willing to answer questions. Also, one of the owners is a well-known route planner and he laid out calculated routes for people of all skill levels. There are three auto belays, several more normal belays, a couple of lead-only routes, and an entire wall of bouldering. There is also a kids area above with a shorter wall for the little ones. I love the environment here and climbing is definitely becoming one of my favorite hobbies! read more

Tried this place for the first time and loved it! The staff is super friendly and helpful, and they give you an overview of the safety protocol and equipment right off the bat. The place is big, bright, airy, and clean, and they section it off into different areas (one side is for bouldering and more advanced climbs, the other has some auto-belays and easier climbs). Everything is well-labeled even for a newbie like me, so I felt really safe and had an awesome time! I will for sure be coming back. read more

Great staff! Safe environment! Awesome Price! Really I cannot say enough about how great this place is, whether you are a beginner, intermediate, or advance, they have something for you. read more

The Source Climbing Center is awesome! It is a great place for adults and kids. The owners and staff do an outstanding job educating and providing a safe and challenging climbing environment. The kids' clubs and climbing team provide great opportunities for kids to learn the sport of climbing. The staff is very patient and motivating for the kids. read more

First time visitors today - super friendly and knowledgeable front desk staff. The price for a day is reasonable and you can rent the shoes and harness for an additional 4 dollars. My kids loved it! They were able to use the auto bole(sp?) system and so it was easy to divide my time between the two. Next time I want to try too! read more

The Source is great. Started to learn about rock climbing here and really developed a fun passion for it. This place is always changing up routes and music. Love the new member's only area of the gym. Great place! read more

A great small gym. Lot's of routes for top rope and sport. They have a few autobelays and a solid bouldering area. Not to mention a sweet staff that's very helpful. Give it a try if you haven't yet! read more

Totally asinine staff who's only be taught one albeit wrong method when it comes to climbing and belaying. Sad amount of bouldering compared to PRG or circuit. Better off spending your time and money at PRG or Planet Granite for sure! Circuit if you strictly Boulder. read more